Patent · US Expired

Method of controlling a windshield wiper system

US5276389A · kind A · utility

421Cited by
13References
37Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateDec 10, 1992
Grant dateJan 4, 1994
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 10, 2012

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10S388/916
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for controlling a vehicular windshield wiping system, the wiping system being controlled in response to recognition of a particular rain pattern, and being capable of distinguishing between the presence of moisture and dirt on the windshield. The wiping system is also controlled according to a plurality of operating thresholds established to ensure smooth operation of the wiping system during varying conditions, and is controlled according an amplification autoranging strategy to ensure the wiping system functions properly independent of certain conditions, such as the type of windshield on the vehicle. The wiping system includes at least one wiper blade, and a sensor mounted to the windshield for monitoring a portion of the windshield. The sensor generates a signal having a value which varies as both moisture and dirt collect on the monitored portion.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.