1. The Pioneers of Wiper Windshields

The wiper windshield, an indispensable feature of modern automobiles, has evolved through a series of innovations over the past century. Several individuals played pivotal roles in the development and refinement of this safety-enhancing device.

a. Mary Anderson (1903)

Mary Anderson, an American inventor, is widely credited with creating the first wiper windshield. Observing the challenges faced by streetcar drivers during a blizzard in New York City, she conceived the idea of a rubber blade attached to a lever that could be manually operated by the driver. Her patent for this invention was granted in 1903.

b. John Apjohn (1908)

In 1908, English engineer John Apjohn invented a pneumatic wiper system that used compressed air to power a single blade. This system provided a more automated and reliable operation compared to manual wipers.

c. Frederick S. Duesenberg (1917)

American engineer Frederick S. Duesenberg developed a vacuum-powered wiper system that was incorporated into the Duesenberg Model A automobile in 1917. This system eliminated the need for compressed air, making it a more practical and cost-effective solution.

2. The Electric Revolution

The advent of electric motors in the early 20th century paved the way for more advanced wiper systems.

a. William M. Folberth (1920)

In 1920, William M. Folberth invented an electric wiper system that could be controlled through a dashboard switch. This system became the standard in early electric vehicles.

b. Robert Bosch (1926)

German inventor Robert Bosch introduced the first intermittent wiper system in 1926. This innovation allowed drivers to adjust the frequency of the wiper sweeps, improving visibility during light rain or drizzle.

3. Innovations and Refinements

Subsequent decades witnessed a series of incremental improvements and innovations that further enhanced the functionality and convenience of wiper windshields.

a. Trico Products (1930)

Trico Products, founded by Folberth, developed the "Trico Blade," a single-piece wiper blade that provided superior wiping performance over multiple blades.

b. Joseph O'Reilly (1954)

American inventor Joseph O'Reilly patented the "Wash'n'Wipe" system in 1954. This system combined windshield wipers with a fluid reservoir and jets, providing a convenient way to clean and wipe the windshield in one motion.

c. Clayton Weatherston (1963)

In 1963, Clayton Weatherston, an engineer from New Zealand, invented the "HydroBlade." This blade design utilized a water repellant coating that improved wiping and reduced wiper chatter.

d. Volvo (1971)

Volvo introduced the "Hidden Wipers" system in 1971. This innovative design concealed the wiper blades under the hood when not in use, enhancing the vehicle's aerodynamics and appearance.

e. Rain Sensing Wipers (1980s)

The 1980s saw the development of rain-sensing wipers, which used sensors to automatically activate the wipers when rain was detected.

f. Intermittent Cycle Wipers (1990s)

Intermittent cycle wipers, which allowed drivers to select a delay between wiper sweeps, became commonplace in the 1990s.

4. Conclusion

The evolution of the wiper windshield is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of countless inventors and engineers. From the early manual systems to the advanced automated wipers of today, these devices have played a crucial role in improving road safety and driving comfort. As technology continues to advance, the future of wiper windshields holds the promise of even more innovation and convenience.