Importance

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Abstract

Two embodiments of a wiper blade attachment adapter are disclosed, each directed to different market areas. Both embodiments incorporate a partially hollow main body defined by side walls with opposed first and second ends, and joined to and spaced apart by a web extending from the end of the adapter to central pin receiving apertures in the side walls. A bar extends between the side walls at the second end, otherwise the space between the side walls is open between the bar at the second end and the web. The region of the web adjacent the pin apertures includes an extension of those apertures, forming a through open passage of generally keyhole configuration, open at its bottom, which can embrace a central retaining pin on the receptacle structure of the wiper's primary lever. A latch member is integrally attached to the first end of the adapter body by a flexible hinge member (e.g. a 'living hinge') such that the latch member is a permanent movable part of the adapter. The shape of the latch member corresponds to the hollow within the first end of the adapter body. The latch member has an integral abutment part shaped to conform generally to the outer curve of a wiper arm hook, thus with the arm hook in place within the adapter, the latch member is swung into the hollow and the abutment part prevents releasing motion of the arm hook. The latch member is retained in this locking position by a pair of integral arms having barb-like tips which are flexible enough to slip into notches in the adapter side walls, and can be released by pressing inward against the barb tips. A notch is formed in the end of the latch member to provide a means of pulling the latch member out of a locked position within the adapter body.

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First Claim