초록 ▼

This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having

This invention relates to windshield wiper system and method which utilizes a flexible member to account for compression loads in excess of a predetermined load, such as 30 percent greater than a maximum load for the flexible member. The system utilizes a flexible pultruded composite material having a relatively low modulus of elasticity, yet relatively high elongation characteristics. The flexible arm bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a compressive load applied to the flexible member reaches a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition, such as snow or ice build up on the windshield. In one embodiment, the predetermined load is defined as:

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A windshield wiper drive linkage for use in a wiper system comprising:a plurality of linkage arms;at least one of said plurality of linkage arms comprising a flexible arm which bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in said wiper system when a compressive loa

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A windshield wiper drive linkage for use in a wiper system comprising:a plurality of linkage arms;at least one of said plurality of linkage arms comprising a flexible arm which bends to facilitate preventing damage to components in said wiper system when a compressive load applied to said at least one of said plurality of linkage arms exceeds a predetermined load as a result of a fatigue condition;wherein said flexible arm comprises a first end and a second end, said first and second ends each comprising a connector; at least one of said connectors having a shear groove and being capable of separating from said first or second end if said compressive force exceeds a maximum load for said flexible arm.