Abstract: A direct current (DC) electric motor is shifted between higher and lower operating speeds in response to motor operating conditions to prevent motor stalling, overheating and burnout. Switches are performed between two or among more than two operating curves defined for the DC motor with switches preferably taking place approximately at points of intersection of the operating curves. The high or higher speed curve typically results from inducing inefficiency into the motor such that continued operation along the high or higher speed curve can lead to motor stalling and even burnout. At or near the intersection points of motor operating curves, operation is switched from the high or higher speed operating curve to a lower speed, higher efficiency operating curve such that motor current is immediately reduced for the same motor speed and torque. If the motor is able to once again operate along the high or higher speed curve, a switch-back is made at or near the point of intersection.

Abstract: A windshield wiper assembly (18) includes a drive motor (20) linked to a pair of pivot shafts (30), each having a pivot axis (34). Mounted on each pivot shaft (30) is an adjustment connector (38). Each adjustment connector (38) includes a main cylindrical portion (42) concentric with pivot shaft (30), which includes a series of teeth (46), and an arcuate key portion (48) protruding from main cylindrical portion (42) opposite teeth (46). A wiper arm assembly (56), having a wiper arm head (62), installs onto adjustment connector (38). Wiper arm head (62) includes a main cylindrical recess (64) with a series of serrations (66) on its surface, at least one more than there are teeth (46), and a key arcuate recess (68) protruding from main recess (64).

Abstract: A modified ball and socket connection is provided between links of a windshield wiper linkage system to resist rolling motion of the links with respect to the ball. A pin extends from the ball into sliding and rotating engagement with a slot formed adjacent the socket.

Abstract: An improved windshield wiper squeegee includes a convex teardrop shaped squeegee element which presents a surface of substantial radius in juxtaposition with a backing strip carrying the element. Alternative hollowed-out areas in the squeegee element enhance flexibility and resist icing.

Abstract: The combination of a crank arm having a crank pin, a drive link carrying a bushing receiving the crank pin, and a retainer clip adapted to coact with the bushing and crank pin to retain the crank arm and linkage arm in assembled relationship. The clip may be preassembled to the bushing before the crank pin is inserted through the bushing. If so, as the crank pin is inserted through the bushing, a pilot portion on the crank pin is effective to radially spread the clip until a retaining groove on the crank pin becomes aligned with the clip. The clip then snaps into the groove and interlocks the bushing and crank pin against substantial axial displacement relative to one another.

Abstract: A tape strip is disclosed. This strip has an elongated strip portion having an outer face and an inner face with adhesive thereon. The elongated strip portion has a width not exceeding three-eighths of an inch. A pair of tape end portions are provided one at each end of the elongated strip portion. The pair of tape end portions have an outer face and an inner face with adhesive thereon. The tape end portions have a width dimension of at least one-half inch.