Wiper^TM to Windshield Force Measurement System

System Features

The Wiper system measures force distribution between blade and glass. A uniform force profile leads to excellent visibility through the windshield. An uneven profile, such as high force under one or two claws can lead to scratches. If there are low force regions, such as a claw misalignment, or a blade bowing between claws, poor wiping and streaks are likely. Many windshields have compound curves, presenting a challenge to the arm mechanism. The blade could mate well with the glass positions, but not at others.

Sequential static measurements taken at representative blade angles simulate upstroke and down-stroke movement and determine how well the arm assembly follows the contour of the windshield. Some users operate the system on highways and wind tunnels to find if wind impingement results in blade lift-off or higher contact force.

The Wiper system uses a long, very thin sensor secured to the glass. Active sensor elements (sensels) spaced every 1/4” (6.3mm) register the force along the length of the blade. Active electronics in a small handle, sends the sensor information to your computer through a USB port. Force is shown as vivid colors in 2-D and 3-D images of the sensor. Digital photographs can be stored with each measurement to document test conditions. A series of individual measurements can be merged into a single view to illustrate passage of the blade over the entire windshield. Data can be shown in graphs, and exported in ASCII format.

Force output measured - wiper blade at 30° angle on windshield

System Features