WO2024083757A1

WO2024083757A1 - Windscreen wiper blade for a motor vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2024083757A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/078705
Authority: WO
Inventors: Frederic Giraud; Pierre Sevellec; Gerald Caillot; Jean Michel JARASSON; Vincent Izabel
Original assignee: Valeo Systèmes d'Essuyage
Priority date: 2022-10-17
Filing date: 2023-10-16
Publication date: 2024-04-25
Also published as: FR3140834A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a windscreen wiper blade (2) for a glazed surface of a motor vehicle, comprising a support mount (4), a wiper rubber (6) mounted on the support mount (4) and intended to bear against the glazed surface, and a liquid distributing and/or spraying device (8) configured to spray a liquid onto the glazed surface, the distributing and/or spraying device (8) being formed in or on the support mount (4), the windscreen wiper blade (2) being characterized in that the liquid distributing and/or spraying device (8) extends only over at least one portion of the support mount (4).

Description

Windshield wiper blade for motor vehicle

The present invention relates to the field of wiper blades for glass surfaces, in particular for a windshield or a rear window of a motor vehicle. More particularly, the invention relates to windshield wiper blades incorporating a washing liquid projection function.

Automotive equipment manufacturers are nowadays aiming to integrate functions on the windshield wiper blades and in particular washing liquid ejection nozzles, the aim being to replace the fixed nozzles conventionally arranged on a lower part of the glass surface, in particular of the windshield or the rear window of the motor vehicle. Fixed washing liquid ejection nozzles have the disadvantage of producing a substantially rectilinear jet of liquid presenting a zone of impact of the liquid on the windshield or on the restricted rear window, certain zones of the windshield then being devoid of of liquid.

We know of wiper blades equipped with spray nozzles on board the wiper blade so as to project the liquid immediately in front of the latter during its progression. This ensures that a wiper blade passes over a surface wetted by the liquid throughout its progression and thus improves the efficiency of the washing cycle.

Wiper blades are also known comprising at least one conduit integrated into or attached to the structure of the wiper blade and pierced with projection orifices, said at least one conduit being integral with the back-and-forth movement. comes from the wiper blade. These wiper blades are equipped with a plurality of projection orifices over the entire length of the wiper blade in order to improve the wettability of the glass surface, in particular by better distribution of the washing liquid at project onto the glass surface.

However, apart from the fact that these wiper blades are relatively complex and expensive to produce, they have the disadvantage of consuming a lot of washing fluid.

The present invention aims to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing an alternative solution to existing solutions which is simpler and less expensive in terms of design and manufacturing, while offering satisfactory distribution of the liquid on a glazed surface, in particular wall. -window or rear window of the vehicle, and guaranteeing a zone of visibility of the road for the driver or a passenger of the vehicle through the glass surface.

une monture de support ;
- une lame d’essuyage montée sur la monture de support et destinée à être en appui sur la surface vitrée, et
- un dispositif de distribution et/ou de projection de liquide configuré pour projeter un liquide sur la surface vitrée, le dispositif de distribution et/ou de projection étant ménagé dans ou sur la monture de support,

le balai d’essuie-glace est caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de distribution et/ou de projection de liquide s’étend uniquement sur au moins une portion le long de la monture de support.The subject of the invention is a windshield wiper blade for the glass surface of a motor vehicle comprising:

a support mount;
- a wiping blade mounted on the support frame and intended to rest on the glass surface, and
- a liquid distribution and/or projection device configured to project a liquid onto the glass surface, the distribution and/or projection device being provided in or on the support frame,

the windshield wiper blade is characterized in that the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over at least one portion along the support mount.

Thus, the manufacture of the windshield wiper blade is simplified compared to the solutions of the prior art. The invention makes it possible in particular to avoid the constraints intrinsic to solutions which provide a cleaning function over the entire length of the broom. Additionally, the amount of liquid used is reduced.

The invention has at least one of the following characteristics, considered alone or in combination.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over 70% of the length of the wiper blade along the support mount.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over 60% of the length of the windshield wiper blade along the support mount.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over 55% of the length of the wiper blade along the support mount.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over 50% of the length of the wiper blade along the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends only over 45% of the length of the wiper blade along the support mount.

Thus, only a portion of the wiper blade incorporates a cleaning function. In other words, only a portion of the wiper blade is made up of elements shaped to have a cleaning function and to integrate a liquid distribution and/or projection device. The other portion of the wiper blade uses the assembly elements of a “classic” wiper blade (of the “flat blade” type), devoid of distribution device and/or splash of liquid. It will be understood that these assembly elements are “standards” that are easier and less expensive to manufacture than the elements of a windshield wiper blade incorporating a cleaning function.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device comprises at least one liquid distribution ramp.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the at least one distribution ramp is for example formed by a tube which delimits a conduit in which the washing liquid is able to circulate.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the at least one distribution ramp is attached to the support mount.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the at least one liquid distribution ramp is formed in the support frame, a plurality of distribution orifices being provided in a wall of the support frame.

Thus, the support frame is in one piece with the liquid distribution ramp. This makes it possible on the one hand to improve the sealing of the liquid transport and on the other hand to lighten the wiper blade by eliminating the means of fixing the liquid distribution ramp when it is attached to the support mount.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device comprises at least one projection nozzle provided with at least one orifice.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the at least one projection nozzle is configured to project liquid from it in the direction of the glazed surface disposed facing the longitudinal portion of the wall of the support frame of the wiper blade, which is not equipped with projection holes.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, said projection orifices extend between the conduit and an environment external to the liquid distribution ramp, environment where the glazed surface is located.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the at least one distribution ramp comprises a plurality of projection orifices formed in a wall of the support frame forming the at least one distribution ramp, the plurality of orifices projection being provided only on at least one longitudinal portion of the wall of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the plurality of projection orifices are provided only over at most 70% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid projection device extends over at most 60% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the plurality of projection orifices are provided only over at most 55% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the plurality of projection orifices are provided only over at most 50% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the plurality of projection orifices are provided only over at most 45% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the plurality of projection orifices are provided only over at most 40% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device is configured to project the liquid onto the glass surface in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of said windshield wiper blade.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device is configured to project the liquid onto the glass surface in at least one direction inclined relative to the longitudinal direction of said windshield wiper blade. .

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device is configured to project the liquid onto the glass surface in at least one direction belonging to the transverse, longitudinal plane of said windshield wiper blade.

By thus adapting the projection direction(s) of the liquid distribution and/or projection device, the wettability of the glazed surface as well as the distribution of the washing fluid on the glazed surface are optimized.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the windshield wiper blade further comprises at least one end piece mounted on one end of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the broom comprises a connection device comprising elements for fixing the broom on an arm, mounted on the support frame.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, the at least one liquid distribution ramp is formed in the support frame and does not include a projection orifice.

In other words, the at least one liquid distribution ramp forms the liquid distribution device.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends over at most 70% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends at most over 60% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends at most over 55% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends at most over 50% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends at most over 45% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the at least one distribution ramp extends longitudinally from the at least one end piece to the connection device.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the liquid distribution and/or projection device comprises at least one projection nozzle provided with at least one projection orifice.

In other words, the at least one projection nozzle forms the liquid projection device.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the first embodiment, the liquid distribution and/or projection device comprises a first projection nozzle and a second projection nozzle each provided with at least one projection orifice, the first projection nozzle is arranged at the level of the at least one end piece and the second projection nozzle is arranged within the connection device or attached in the immediate vicinity of it.

More particularly, the first projection nozzle is configured to project liquid therefrom in the direction of the glass surface disposed facing the longitudinal portion of the wall of the support frame of the wiper blade forming the at minus one liquid distribution ramp; and the second projection nozzle is configured to project liquid therefrom in the direction of the glazed surface disposed facing the longitudinal portion of the wall of the broom support frame devoid of distribution and/or projection device of liquid.

According to a first variant of the first embodiment, said at least one end piece is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

Thus, the manufacture of the windshield wiper blade is simplified and less expensive compared to the solutions of the prior art.

It will be understood that the at least one end tip (also called first end tip) is designed to hydraulically connect the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle, said first end piece comprising a liquid supply means, such as for example a longitudinal channel, configured to be connected to the liquid distribution and/or projection device of the wiper blade as well as to a system liquid supply.

It will also be understood that the other end tip (also called second end tip) is a "standard" end tip used for "conventional" wiper blades, devoid of distribution device and/or splashing liquid. Said second end piece therefore does not include a liquid supply means. This is therefore particularly advantageous in terms of design and manufacturing costs.

Also hydraulically connecting the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle at the level of the at least one end cap rather than at the level of a device arm / brush connection has the advantage of reducing the length of a supply tube of the liquid supply system, of avoiding the use of an element for holding the supply tube on the drive arm and to simplify the existing arm / hydraulic blade connection device and therefore to reduce the overall cost of the wiper blade.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of this variant, the at least one end piece comprises a liquid supply means, constituted for example by a longitudinal channel hydraulically connected to the liquid distribution and/or projection device of the brush windshield wiper through an exit nozzle.

More particularly, said at least one end piece is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the at least one liquid distribution ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle and the supply of liquid to the first and the second projection nozzle.

More particularly, said at least one end piece is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of a first longitudinal termination of the at least one liquid distribution ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle and the liquid supply to the first and second projection nozzle.

According to a second variant of the first embodiment, the second projection nozzle is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

More particularly, the second projection nozzle is placed in the immediate vicinity of the connection device. It is arranged longitudinally between the liquid distribution ramp and the connection device.

More particularly, the second projection nozzle (arranged in the immediate vicinity of the connection device) is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the at least one hydraulic ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle and the supply of liquid from the first nozzle (arranged at the level of at least one end tip).

More particularly, the second projection nozzle (arranged in the immediate vicinity of the connection device) is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of a first longitudinal termination of the at least one hydraulic ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle and the liquid supply to the first nozzle (arranged at the level of at least one end tip).

According to a second embodiment of the invention, the at least one liquid distribution ramp comprises a plurality of projection orifices provided in a wall of the connection device forming the at least one distribution ramp.

Thus, the at least one liquid distribution ramp comprising a plurality of projection orifices forms both the liquid distribution device and both the projection device.

More particularly, it forms at least one liquid projection ramp.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the at least one projection ramp extends at most over 70% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the at least one projection ramp extends at most over 60% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the at least one projection ramp extends at most over 55% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the at least one projection ramp extends at most over 50% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the at least one projection ramp extends at most over 45% of the length of the support frame.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the liquid distribution and/or projection device does not include a projection nozzle.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of this variant without projection nozzle, the at least one projection ramp extends longitudinally between a first longitudinal termination and a second longitudinal termination, the first longitudinal termination is intended to be connected to a tip of end, the second longitudinal termination comprises a closing element, the closing element being configured to hydraulically close the second longitudinal termination of the at least one distribution ramp.

This closing element can for example be a plug, inserted at the level of the second longitudinal end of the at least one distribution ramp so as to no longer allow the liquid to circulate beyond its second longitudinal end. The function of the closing element is to delimit the extension of the liquid distribution and/or projection device and in particular the extension of the at least one liquid distribution ramp at the level of the brush support mount. windshield wiper, in which the liquid circulates, hydraulically closing its second longitudinal end.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of this variant without projection nozzle, only one of the two longitudinal ends of the connection device comprises at least one closing element configured to close the second longitudinal end of the at least one distribution ramp.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of this variant without projection nozzle, the at least one closing element extends within the second longitudinal termination of the at least one distribution ramp towards the end piece intended to connect the at least one distribution ramp to the vehicle's liquid supply system.

In this alternative embodiment, the closing element is carried by one of the longitudinal ends of the connection device and extends within the second longitudinal termination of the at least one liquid distribution ramp in the direction of the end cap intended to connect the first longitudinal termination of said at least one liquid distribution ramp to the liquid supply system of the vehicle. Preferably, this shutter element is attached to the connection device, for example by gluing, by welding or by any other means capable of ensuring a lasting mechanical connection between the shutter element and the connection device.

Thus, a “standard” connection device is used, which is particularly advantageous in terms of design and manufacturing costs.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the liquid distribution and/or projection device further comprises at least one projection nozzle provided with at least one projection orifice.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the liquid distribution and/or projection device comprises a single projection nozzle provided with at least one projection orifice.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the single projection nozzle is arranged at the level of the connection device.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the single projection nozzle is arranged within the connection device or attached in immediate proximity to it.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the single projection nozzle is configured to project liquid from it in the direction of the glazed surface placed opposite the longitudinal portion of the wall of the broom support frame arranged windshield wiper, which is not provided with projection holes.

According to a first variant of the second embodiment, said at least one end piece is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

More particularly, said at least one end piece is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the at least one liquid distribution ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle and the supply of the single nozzle projection, if applicable.

According to a second variant of the second embodiment, the single projection nozzle is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the liquid distribution and/or projection device to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

More particularly, the single projection nozzle is configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the at least one hydraulic ramp to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the second embodiment, the projection orifices of the liquid distribution ramp are consecutive and separated from each other by a step.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the projection orifices of the liquid distribution ramp are aligned in at least the longitudinal direction of the wiper blade, the wiper blade extending in the direction longitudinal.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the projection orifices of the liquid distribution ramp and/or of the single projection nozzle are arranged in a longitudinal, vertical plane of said windshield wiper blade.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the projection orifices of the liquid distribution ramp and/or of the single projection nozzle are not all arranged in the same longitudinal, vertical plane of said windshield wiper blade. .

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, at least one of the projection orifices of the liquid distribution ramp and/or the projection orifice of the single projection nozzle has a shape capable of projecting the liquid in one direction. inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the support mount.

By thus adapting the arrangement and shapes of the projection orifices of the liquid distribution and/or projection device and in particular of the at least one liquid distribution ramp and/or of the single projection nozzle, the wettability of the glazed surface as well as the distribution of the washing fluid on the glazed surface are optimized.

The invention also relates to a wiping device comprising at least one wiper blade according to any of the above characteristics and at least one supply tube intended to connect the distribution device and/or of liquid projection from the brush to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the supply tube is hydraulically connected to the longitudinal channel of the at least one end piece of the wiper blade via an inlet cannula, the longitudinal channel itself being hydraulically connected to the liquid distribution and/or projection device via the outlet cannula.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the inlet cannula, the longitudinal channel and the outlet cannula of the at least one end tip preferably form a single part with the end tip.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the supply tube is hydraulically connected to a projection nozzle placed in the immediate vicinity of the connection device.

Finally, the subject of the invention is a wiping system comprising at least one wiper blade as described above, a drive arm which rotates the wiper blade and a motor which rotates the drive arm around a pivot axis.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the drive arm rotates the wiper blade between a "fixed stop" position and an "opposite fixed stop" position in an upward movement and vice versa in a downward movement. . The liquid distribution and/or projection device is located at the end of the wiper blade located closest to the pivot axis, the liquid distribution and/or projection device being configured to project the liquid on the glass surface upstream of the wiper blade during the upward movement and along its entire length of the wiper blade.

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid supply tube is connected to the liquid distribution and/or projection device of the wiper blade via a projection nozzle located in the immediate vicinity of the connection device .

According to a non-limiting characteristic of the invention, the liquid supply tube is connected to the liquid distribution and/or projection device of the wiper blade via the end tip closest to the pivot axis. Thus, only a small length of supply tube is required to supply fluid to the wiper blade.

In addition, the arrangement and shape of the projection orifices of the liquid distribution and/or projection device is such that the liquid is projected onto the glass surface upstream of the windshield wiper blade during the upward movement and over the entire the length of the wiper blade.

Thus the wiper blade according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to distribute the liquid over the glass surface while obtaining wettability and effective and rapid cleaning over the entire length of the wiper blade. The wiper blade according to the invention also has the advantage of having a reduced design and manufacturing cost compared to a wiper blade integrating a device for distributing and/or projecting liquid onto its entire length.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly with the help of the description and the drawings including:

There is a general view of a vehicle wiping system comprising a windshield wiper blade according to the invention.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a first variant of a first embodiment.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a second variant of the first embodiment.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a third variant of the first embodiment.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a first variant of a second embodiment.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a second variant of the second embodiment.

There is a schematic sectional view of a windshield wiper blade according to a third variant of the second embodiment.

In the description which follows and in the claims, reference will be made, on a non-limiting basis, to the orientation of a trihedron L, V, T indicated in the figures and which corresponds to the longitudinal directions L, i.e. -say the direction of main extension of the wiper blade, vertical V, that is to say a direction perpendicular to a plane in which the glazed surface extends, and transverse T, that is to say -say a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and parallel or tangent to the glass surface at the place where the wiper blade rests.

There illustrates a wiping system 1 ensuring the cleaning of a glass surface of a vehicle, for example a windshield, so as to improve the visibility of a driver of the vehicle, for example in rainy weather or to clear said surface glass of solid debris clinging to the latter. The wiping system 1 extends in a main direction, here a longitudinal direction L, and comprises at least one drive arm 20 comprising at least one free end 201 which carries a wiper blade 2 and one end connection 202, opposite the free end 201 in the longitudinal direction L and connected to the vehicle.

The drive arm 20 and the wiper blade 2 both extend mainly in the main direction of the wiping system 1, here the longitudinal direction L. The wiper blade 2 is particularly suitable for be driven in rotation by the drive arm 20 against the glass surface of the vehicle, the drive arm 20 itself being driven in rotation by a motor, not visible, for example an electric motor carried by the vehicle, around a pivot axis A.

During a sweeping cycle, for example on the windshield, the drive arm 20 drives the wiper blade 2 from a "fixed stop" position, that is to say parallel to a foot of windshield, towards an “opposite fixed stop” position, that is to say substantially parallel to an upright of the windshield. The wiper blade 2 then returns to the “fixed stop” position.

In order to connect the wiper blade 2 to the free end 201 of the drive arm 20, said wiper blade 2 comprises a connection device 13. The connection device 13 comprises at least one connector ( not visible) which carries a blade 6 of the windshield wiper blade 2 and an adapter (not visible) pivotally mounted on the connector, the adapter being able to cooperate with the free end 201 of the drive arm 20. We understands in particular that the blade 6 of the wiper blade 2 is intended to be in contact with the glass surface of the vehicle. Furthermore, the connector is configured to carry the blade 6, directly or indirectly.

More particularly and as shown in Figures 2 to 7, the wiper blade 2 according to the invention comprises a support mount 4 extending in the longitudinal direction L of the wiper blade 2 as well as the wiping blade 6 intended to be applied to the glass surface of a motor vehicle.

The expression “support mount” designates all the elements participating in the mechanical strength of the wiper blade 2 when it is a “flat blade”.

This support frame 4 can thus be formed only by a single flexible stiffening vertebra. In such a case, the wiping blade can be stuck to one of the faces of this flexible vertebra.

According to a variant, this support frame 4 can thus be formed only by two flexible stiffening vertebrae.

According to an alternative, this support mount 4 can also designate a longitudinal support responsible for interfacing the different components of the wiper blade, such as for example at least one flexible vertebra, one or more air deflectors, one or more end caps and/or a wiping blade.

According to this alternative, this support frame 4 formed by the support comprises a longitudinal claw into which the wiping blade 6 is inserted.

The term “support frame 4” also refers to a combination of several of these components. For example, the support frame 4 can be formed by the support comprising a housing into which the flexible vertebra is inserted. More generally, the support mount 4 is the structural element of the wiper blade which can carry at least one liquid distribution and/or projection device 8.

According to the invention, the liquid distribution and/or projection device 8 extends only over at least one portion along the support mount 4.

As shown in Figures 2 to 7, on the support mount 4 is assembled and fixed at least one liquid distribution and/or projection device 8.

In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 7, the at least one liquid distribution and/or projection device 8 is a liquid distribution ramp 80, which is integral with the support mount 4 and forms a single piece with it.

Alternatively, this distribution ramp 80 can be an attached part on the support mount 4 of the wiper blade 2, in particular by gluing or any means capable of ensuring a lasting mechanical connection between the liquid distribution ramp 80 and the support frame 4.

In any case, and according to the invention, such a liquid distribution and/or projection device extends over at most 70% of the length of the windshield wiper blade 2.

More particularly, the liquid distribution ramp 80 extends over at most 70% of the length of the wiper blade 2.

It extends longitudinally between a first longitudinal termination 801 and a second longitudinal termination 802.

According to the embodiments of Figures 2, 4, 5 and 7, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends over at most 45% of the length of the wiper blade 2.

According to the embodiments of Figures 3 and 6, the liquid distribution and/or projection device extends over at most 60% of the length of the wiper blade 2.

The function of the liquid distribution and/or projection device 8 is to distribute the washing liquid coming from a supply system external to the wiper blade 2 to at least two projection orifices 10, 10', 10'' configured to project liquid onto the glass surface to be cleaned. Such a supply system comprises at least one washing liquid reservoir (not shown), a liquid circulation pump (not shown) and at least one supply tube 50 (partially shown in Figures 1 to 7) .

In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 7, the liquid distribution and/or projection device is the distribution ramp 80. It distributes the liquid on the glazed surface by means of the at least two projection orifices 10, 10', 10'' during a back and forth movement of the wiper blade.

It will be noted that according to this variant of the invention, the wiper blade 2 comprises at least one liquid distribution ramp, and more particularly a single liquid distribution ramp.

However, it is possible for the wiper blade 2 to comprise two distribution ramps, of the same length and arranged symmetrically on either side of a median longitudinal plane of the wiper blade 2, such a plane being perpendicular to the support mount 4, more particularly to the vertebra which forms or which comprises the support mount 4. Taken in another frame of reference, such a plane is perpendicular to the windshield.

According to this alternative embodiment, each liquid distribution ramp is then dedicated to one direction of scanning of the arm, among an ascending direction and a descending direction.

The description of the invention which follows is made in relation to a liquid distribution ramp 80 according to a variant of the invention, but this description can similarly be applied to the structure of the second liquid distribution ramp, when the wiper blade 2 includes two.

In the variants of Figures 2 to 4, the at least two projection orifices 10'' each form part of a projection nozzle 91, 92. The first projection nozzle 91 is arranged at the level of the end tip 11 and is configured to project liquid therefrom in the direction of the glazed surface disposed facing the longitudinal portion of the wall of the support frame 4 of the wiper blade 2 forming the at least one ramp of distribution 80 of liquid. The second projection nozzle 92 is arranged either in the immediate vicinity of the connection device 13 as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, or within the connection device 13 as illustrated in Figure . The second projection nozzle 92 is configured to project liquid therefrom in the direction of the glazed surface disposed facing the longitudinal portion of the wall of the support frame 4 of the wiper blade 2 devoid of a device for distribution and/or projection of liquid. In these alternative embodiments, the liquid distribution ramp 80 does not have a projection orifice.

In the variant of the , the at least two projection orifices 10, 10' form part of the liquid distribution ramp 80 and at least partially form a projection ramp 90.

In the variants of Figures 6 and 7, one of the at least two projection orifices 10, 10' is part of the liquid distribution ramp 80 and the other 10'' is part of a projection nozzle 93 arranged either in the immediate vicinity of the connection device 13 as illustrated in , or within the connection device 13 as illustrated in .

As shown in Figures 1 to 7, the wiper blade 2 further comprises at each of its longitudinal ends an end piece 11, 12, which has the particular function of authorizing assembly, disassembly and possibly the securing of the wiping blade 6 relative to the support frame 4, said wiping blade 6 being able to be replaced by translation of the blade with respect to the support frame 4.

In the variant embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 and 6, only one of these end tips 11 also has the function of connecting a first longitudinal termination 801 of the distribution ramp 80 to a system of supply (not shown) of liquid to the vehicle. Advantageously, this end piece 11 is the one which is located at the longitudinal end of the wiper blade closest to the pivot axis A of the drive arm 20.

Indeed, as illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 5, 6, this end piece 11 comprises a liquid supply means 64, constituted in this example by a longitudinal channel hydraulically connected to the distribution ramp 80 of liquid from the wiper blade through an outlet cannula 642. The liquid comes from a supply system external to the wiper blade which includes a reservoir (not shown), a pump for circulating the liquid (not shown) and a supply tube 50. The liquid stored in the reservoir is circulated within the supply tube via the circulating pump to supply the distribution ramp 80 of liquid from the wiper blade via the supply tube 50, the supply tube 50 being hydraulically connected to the longitudinal channel of the end tip 11 of the wiper blade 2 via an inlet cannula 641, the longitudinal channel itself being hydraulically connected to the first longitudinal termination 801 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 via the outlet cannula 642.

The inlet cannula 641, the longitudinal channel and the outlet cannula 642 of the end tip 11 preferably form a single part with the end tip 11.

Advantageously, this makes it possible to introduce the watering function at lower cost since only part of the wiper blade 2 comprises the liquid distribution and/or projection device 8, the other part of the wiper blade -windshield 2 comprising the elements of a “classic” wiper blade, that is to say a wiper blade without a liquid distribution and/or projection device, with a end cap 12 and a “conventional” support mount, which is particularly advantageous in terms of design and manufacturing cost.

In addition, the fact that the liquid supply system and more particularly the supply tube 50 is connected to the end tip 11 of the wiper blade which is arranged close to the pivot axis A of the drive arm 20, advantageously allows a reduced length of the supply tube 50 of the liquid supply system.

Optionally, the supply tube 50 is configured to be fixed along the drive arm 20 by means of a fixing means (not visible). According to examples, the fixing means is a clip, a ring or a staple which holds the supply tube pressed against the drive arm.

Alternatively and as shown in Figures 4 and 7, the two end pieces 11, 12 are “standard”, that is to say they do not include a liquid supply means. This is the second projection nozzle 92 (for the embodiment of the ) or the single projection nozzle 93 (for the embodiment of the ), that arranged in the immediate vicinity of the connection device 13, which is configured to hydraulically connect the liquid distribution and/or projection device 8 to a liquid supply system of a vehicle. The second projection nozzle 92 or the single projection nozzle 93 thus allows its supply of liquid as well as the supply of liquid to the liquid distribution ramp 80.

The connection device 13 of the wiper blade 2 to the drive arm 20, as shown in Figures 1 to 7, extends in the longitudinal direction L of the wiper blade 2 between two longitudinal ends 131 , 132. According to a variant embodiment, and in particular that of the , it may comprise a closing element 30, for example a plug, configured to close the second longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80. This closing element 30 is carried by one of the longitudinal ends 131 of the connection device 13 and extends within the second longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 in the direction of the end nozzle 11 intended to connect the first longitudinal termination 801 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 to the liquid supply system of the vehicle.

Preferably, this closing element 30 is attached to the connection device 13. It is fixed to one of the longitudinal ends 131 of the connection device 13 by gluing, or by welding or any other means capable of ensuring a lasting mechanical connection between the the shutter element 30 and the connection device 13.

This has the advantage of using an existing connection device, conventionally used for “standard” wiper blades not including a liquid distribution and/or projection device. It will be understood that this is particularly advantageous in terms of design and manufacturing costs.

According to another alternative embodiment, the second longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 comprises the closing element 30 configured to hydraulically close said longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 arranged near the device. connection 13. This closing element 30 is for example a plug inserted by force into the second longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 neighboring the connection device 13. This other alternative embodiment is advantageous because it allows 'free from the step of fixing the shutter element 30 on the connection device 13 of the variant embodiment previously described.

The projection orifice 10'' of the first and/or the second projection nozzle 91, 92 or even the single projection nozzle 93 has a liquid projection direction inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the liquid distribution ramp 80 so that the beam of liquid projected at the outlet of this projection orifices 10'' forms a line of impact substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the wiper blade 2 while along the wiper blade 2.

As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, corresponding to the second embodiment of the invention, the liquid distribution ramp 80 comprises a plurality of projection orifices 10, the number, shape and orientation of these orifices projection being adapted so that the liquid projects over the entire length of the wiper blade 2 and also over the length of the part of the wiper blade devoid of projection and/or liquid distribution device.

On the liquid distribution ramp 80, the projection orifices 10 are arranged in series over the entire length of the liquid distribution ramp 80 in a longitudinal direction L and/or a vertical direction V of the wiper blade. ice cream 2.

Preferably, the projection orifices 10 of the liquid distribution ramp 80 are arranged in a longitudinal, vertical plane LV of said windshield wiper blade 2. Even more preferably, the projection orifices 10 of the distribution ramp 80 of liquid are not all arranged in the same longitudinal, vertical plane LV of said wiper blade 2.

It will be noted that each projection orifice 10 can be separated according to a regular step, that is to say separated by the same distance D.

As visible in Figures 5 to 7, the projection orifices 10 are openings through which the liquid from the liquid distribution ramp 80 is projected. Generally speaking, the beam of liquid projected at the outlet of a projection orifice 10 forms an impact on the glass surface. All of the beams of liquid projected at the outlet of the projection orifices 10 form a line of impact substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the wiper blade 2.

Generally speaking, the liquid projection directions are parallel to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the liquid distribution ramp 80.

This is particularly valid for the projection orifices 10 of the distribution ramp 80 separated by a regular pitch.

Thus the beams of liquid projected at the outlet of these orifices 10 form a line of impact substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the wiper blade 2 and opposite the part of the wiper blade 2 provided with the liquid projection and/or distribution device 8.

However, to improve wettability, the liquid projection directions can also be inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction L of the liquid distribution ramp 80.

Preferably and as illustrated in , the liquid projection directions are inclined relative to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the distribution ramp 80 for additional projection orifices 10' of the liquid distribution ramp 80 arranged at the level of the second longitudinal termination 802 of the liquid distribution ramp 80, termination arranged near the connection device 13, and in addition to the projection orifices 10 described previously and whose liquid projection directions are parallel to a plane perpendicular to the direction L of the liquid distribution ramp 80.

Thus the beams of liquid projected at the outlet of these additional orifices 10' form a line of impact substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the wiper blade 2 and opposite the part of the wiper blade -glass 2 devoid of projection and/or liquid distribution device. In other words, the liquid coming from such orifices 10' is projected from the additional projection orifices 10' towards the part of the wiper blade 2 devoid of projection and/or liquid distribution device up to the corresponding end cap 12.

Thus the pitch between the projection orifices 10, 10' (taken indifferently from each other) arranged near the connection device 13 is not regular and is less than those 10 arranged at a regular pitch near the end cap 11.

In the embodiment illustrated in , the projection directions of the openings of the liquid distribution ramp 80 separated by a regular pitch on the liquid distribution ramp 80 are parallel to each other and the projection directions of the openings separated by a non-regular pitch of the ramp distribution 80 of liquid are intersecting with each other.

Alternatively and as illustrated in the embodiments of Figures 6 and 7, the windshield wiper blade further comprises a (single) projection nozzle 93 provided with at least one projection orifice 10'', the latter being arranged either in the immediate vicinity of the connection device 13 for the variant of the , or within the connection device 13 for the variant of the .

In the various examples illustrated (Figures 2 to 7), the projection orifices 10, 10', 10'' are for example of circular section, and extend along their central axis. Alternatively, such a section of the projection orifices can be oblong, conical or even tetrahedral in shape.

Advantageously, such an arrangement and design of the projection orifices 10, 10', 10'' of the liquid distribution ramp 80 and/or the projection nozzle allows the distribution of the liquid over the entire length of the wiper blade. window 2, whether it is the part of the wiper blade 2 devoid of or provided with a projection and/or liquid distribution device 8.

The distribution of the liquid on the window is therefore improved for better wettability and more efficient and faster cleaning in particularly difficult conditions linked for example to the presence on the windshield of frost or stubborn dirt, such as residues of glass. crushed insects, and this over the entire length of the wiper blade 2, while reducing the costs linked to the design and manufacture of such a wiper blade 2.

The invention as it has just been described cannot, however, be limited to the means and configurations exclusively described and illustrated, and also applies to all equivalent means or configurations and to any combination of such means or configurations.

Claims

Windshield wiper blade (2) for the glass surface of a motor vehicle comprising:

a support frame (4);

- a wiping blade (6) mounted on the support frame (4) and intended to rest on the glass surface, and

- a liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) configured to project a liquid onto the glass surface, the distribution and/or projection device (8) being provided in or on the support frame (4),

the wiper blade (2) is characterized in that the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) extends only over at least one portion along the support mount (4).
Broom according to claim 1, in which the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) extends at most over 70% of the length of the support frame (4).
Broom according to claim 1 or 2, in which the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) comprises at least one liquid distribution ramp (80).
Broom according to the preceding claim, in which the at least one liquid distribution ramp (80) is formed in the support frame (4), a plurality of distribution orifices (10, 10') being provided in a wall of the support frame.
Broom according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) further comprises a single projection nozzle (93) provided with at least one projection orifice (10'' ).
Broom according to claim 3, in which the at least one liquid distribution ramp (80) is formed in the support frame (4) and does not include a projection orifice.
Broom according to any one of the preceding claims, in which it further comprises at least one end cap (11) mounted on one end of the support frame (4), said at least one end cap (11) being configured to allow the hydraulic connection of the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) to a liquid supply system of a vehicle.
Broom according to the preceding claim, in which the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) comprises a first projection nozzle (91) and a second projection nozzle (92) each provided with at least one projection orifice (10''), the first projection nozzle (91) is arranged at the level of the at least one end tip (11) and the second projection nozzle (92) is arranged within the connection device (13 ) or reported in the immediate vicinity of it.
Wiping device comprising at least one wiper blade (2) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one supply tube (50) intended to connect to the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) of the wiper blade a fluid supply system of a vehicle.
Wiping system (1) comprising at least one wiper blade (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, a drive arm (20) which rotates the wiper blade (2) and a motor which rotates the drive arm (20) around a pivot axis (A).
Wiping system (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the drive arm (20) rotates the wiper blade (2) between a “fixed stop” position and an “opposite fixed stop” position. in an upward movement and vice versa in a downward movement, and in which the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) is located at the end (21) of the windshield wiper blade (2) located furthest close to the pivot axis (A), the liquid distribution and/or projection device (8) being configured to project the liquid onto the glass surface upstream of the wiper blade (2) during movement upward and along the entire length of the wiper blade (2).