1. What is a wiper linkage?
The wiper linkage, also known as the wiper linkage mechanism or wiper transmission arm, is a mechanical transmission device that connects the wiper motor to the wiper arm. Its primary function is to convert the rotational motion generated by the wiper motor into the reciprocating motion of the wiper arm on the windshield.
Composition Structure of Wiper Link Rod
| Component Name | FeaturesDescription |
|---|---|
| Crumpled arm | Connect directly to the output shaft of the rain-crushing motor to transmit the motor's rotational power to the rod |
| Drive Rod (Main Rod) | Tranamission component connecting the crank arm and both sides wiper arms responsible for transmitting power |
| From-Action Rod (AuxiliaryRod) | Auxilliary link connecting the two wiper arms, ensuring synchronized movement on both sides |
| Ball Head and BallSocket | Connection nodes between each link provide flexible universal motion |
| Hub Assembly | Fixed to the vehicle body, supports the wiper arm and allows It to swing around anaxis |
How the windshield wiper linkage works.
The operation process of the wiper linkage can be summarized as a three-step process: rotation, reciprocation, and synchronization.
1.Input rotation: After the wiper motor is activated, it generates low-speed, high-torque rotational motion through a worm gear reduction mechanism.
2.Conversion Mechanism: The cam arm converts the rotational motion of the motor into reciprocating linear motion of the transmission rod.
3.Driving Oscillation: The transmission rod connects to the driving pivot via a spherical head, allowing the wiper arm to oscillate in a fan-shaped pattern on the windshield.
4.Synchronized movement: The follower rod ensures that the motion paths of the wiper arms on both sides are identical, enabling synchronized wiping.
2. The primary function of the wiper linkage.
This is the most fundamental function of the wiper linkage. It converts the rotational motion of the motor into the reciprocating oscillation required by the wiper arm. Without this conversion mechanism, the rotational motion of the motor would not be able to directly drive the wiper to perform the cleaning action.
The wiper motor outputs power with high rotational speed and low torque. The linkage mechanism utilizes the principle of levers to amplify the torque while transmitting power, ensuring that the wipers can function properly even under conditions of significant resistance from snow or dry glass.
For vehicles equipped with dual wiper arms, the linkage mechanism ensures that the left and right wiper arms move in synchrony. Whether the wipers are sweeping in the same direction or in opposite directions, the linkage guarantees that the trajectories of both wiper arms are coordinated and collision-free.
The design of the wiper linkage determines the angle of oscillation and the range of motion of the wiper arm. By adjusting the length of the lever arm and the geometric structure of the linkage, it is possible to precisely control the coverage area of the wiper on the windshield.
After the wiper motor is turned off, the linkage mechanism, in conjunction with the reset switch inside the motor, returns the wiper arm to the predetermined “parking position” at the bottom of the windshield, ensuring that the view is unobstructed.
Common issues and symptom of wiper linkage problems.
|
Symptoms of the malfunction |
Possible reasons |
Severity |
|---|---|---|
|
The windshield wiper does not function, but the motor makes noise |
Ball head detachment, connecting rod fracture |
High |
|
Wiper blade angle becomes smaller |
Shaft wear, crank arm looseness |
in |
|
Wiper movement is stuck or shaking |
Joint rusting, lack of lubrication |
in |
