Improving aerodynamic performance for a reliable wiper system

Abstract

In this study, it is aimed to simulate aerodynamic forces acting on the windshield wiper system on a simplified geometry at different blade angles. Numerical simulations reveal that at critical blade angles, undesired lift forces can reach their peak values. The blade-spoiler geometry is modified in a manner to alter aerodynamic lift and drag coefficients. On a simplified front windshield it is shown that at a blade angle of 40  , lift forces can be converted to pressing forces by implementing suggested modifications. Furthermore 2 vortex identification is used to understand the formation of vortex structures at different blade angles. On the other hand, soiling tests are performed both on original and modified wiper geometries and their performances are compared.

Research Development on Wiper Mechanism in Automotive Application: A Critical Review

“…The modern design process of the products (in this case, the wiper mechanisms) involves conceptual and functional design, command & control, digital mock-up, virtual prototyping and testing [74]. The conceptual design has as main objective to establish the best product concept, by using data picked by the science, technology, economy or market, while the functional design involves identifying, modelling and evaluating the operational performances of the wiper systems, and the deviations from the imposed characteristics, with other words the mode in which the mechanism responses to the design parameters [75][76][77][78][79][80].…”