Abstract: An ultra lightweight, thin link for a windscreen wiper mechanism is formed of a strip which is of U-shaped section for most of its length and which has end portions in which integral bush bearings are provided by plunged holes in the strip. The strip is very thin, e.g. about 0.5 mm, and is formed of non-alloy steel having nitrogen diffused through substantially the whole of the section thereof.The nitrogen is in solid solution in a ferritic matrix. Such a structure is obtained by heat treatment in a nitrogen containing atmosphere followed by oil quenching. The strip also has an epsilon iron nitride surface layer thereon in a portion 19b of which oil is absorbed to impart self lubricating properties to the bearings.

Abstract: A vehicle headlamp wiper includes a relatively rigid support and a flexible wall joined to the support so as to define a chamber. A liquid inlet to the chamber is provided in the support. Outlets are provided through a surface of the flexible wall which is opposite the headlamp lens. A multiplicity of scrubbing or scouring elements, e.g. loops of plastics or abrasive particles, are anchored to the flexible wall and engage the headlamp lens. When liquid fills the chamber, the wiper can conform to curvature of the headlamp lens by deformation of the flexible wall and even caked-on dirt on the lens can be removed because of the provision of the scrubbing or scouring elements.