MEANS FOR FIXING A DRIVE MECHANISM OF A WIPER DEVICE TO A BODY SHELL ELEMENT

Abstract

A fixing apparatus for fixing two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to a body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle has a plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into a first opening on the body shell element. The plug-type cylindrical body has a locking mechanism configured to prevent the plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the first opening on the body shell element. The locking mechanism has a secondary element connected to the plug-type cylindrical body by a material bridge. The secondary element is configured to be partially inserted into a second opening on the body shell element. The secondary element is configured to be unlocked from a locking position by applying transversal and then longitudinal forces on the secondary element in a longitudinal axis defined by the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

Description

The present invention relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device to a body shell element.

The invention applies more particularly in the context of wiping the rear window of a motor vehicle, where a drive mechanism in the form of a support plate, comprising a wiper arm drive shaft, is fixed to the inner face of the body shell element arranged overall vertically at the rear of the motor vehicle.

Furthermore, in a standard manner, motor vehicles generally have a rear door with a recess in which the rear window is partially inserted.

The support plate of the drive mechanism generally comprises a plurality of fixing tabs allowing the mechanism to be fixed to the inner face of the body shell element.

In a standard manner, this fixing of the support plate on the inner face is provided by a screw and nut system (JP 2004/210157).

However, this installation operation is relatively complex to perform, takes a lot of time and requires additional parts using specific installation tools, for example screwdrivers or riveting machines.

There also exist means for fixing by rotation, snap-fitting or insertion, but these entail the risk of spontaneous dismantlement during use, caused by impacts and vibrations.

It would therefore be particularly advantageous to manufacture means for fixing a drive mechanism that allow easier fixing which is quick and involves low costs in terms of material and labour and which cannot be spontaneously dismantled.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, it relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arm on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, the fixing means being characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug-type cylindrical body, at least one of the plug-type cylindrical bodies comprising locking means for preventing the plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the opening in which the plug-type cylindrical body is partially inserted, the locking means being presented in the form of a secondary element linked to the plug-type cylindrical body by mean of a material bridge, the secondary element being capable of being partially inserted in a secondary opening provided on the body shell element, the secondary element being unlocked from the locking position by applying transversal and then longitudinal forces in relation to the longitudinal axis, the secondary element being presented in the shape of a substantially parallelepipedal element and comprising on its free end means capable of exerting retaining forces on the outer face of the body shell element when the secondary element is inserted in the secondary opening, said means capable of exerting a retaining force on the outer face of the body shell element consisting of at least one tab provided on the free end of the secondary element, the free end of said at least one tab being capable of resting against the outer surface of the body shell element, said at least one tab being provided tilted in relation to the longitudinal axis defined by the plug-type cylindrical body.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, it relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arm on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, the fixing means being characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug-type cylindrical body, at least one of the plug-type cylindrical bodies comprising locking means for preventing the plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the opening in which the plug-type cylindrical body is partially inserted, the locking means being capable of exerting a mainly transversal locking force in relation to the longitudinal axis of the plug-type cylindrical body, the locking means consisting of a tongue having an internal opening capable of cooperating with a tooth provided on the inner surface of the body shell element, said tongue being a material extension of the plug-type cylindrical body.

The opening advantageously has a square shape and the tooth is provided tilted in relation to the planar surface of the body shell element.

According to another embodiment, the invention relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arm on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, the fixing means being characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug type cylindrical body, said at least one opening consisting of a main loop and a secondary loop, said at least one opening comprising means for blocking the plug-type cylindrical body in the secondary loop of the opening.

According to a first advantageous embodiment, the blocking means are presented in the form of a pair of teeth provided on the circumference of the main loop, the teeth being tilted in relation to the planar surface defined by the surface of the body shell element, advantageously at an angle of less than 45°, and being made by forming a slot through the body shell element and by folding a part of the bodywork of the body shell element split in this way by lifting it; the plug-type cylindrical body being capable of sliding over the teeth after its partial insertion in the main loop, to be blocked in the secondary loop.

According to a second advantageous embodiment, the means for blocking the plug-type cylindrical body in the secondary loop consist of a pair of elevations which are substantially bi-planar and are arranged on the circumference of the main loop.

According to another embodiment of the invention, it relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arms on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug-type cylindrical body, at least one of the cylindrical bodies comprising locking means preventing the plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the opening in which the plug-type cylindrical body is partially inserted, the locking means being capable of being inserted in the plug-type cylindrical body.

Advantageously, the plug-type cylindrical body can be partially inserted in openings provided on the inner face of the body shell element, the openings being presented in the form of at least two loops with different diameters, the plug-type cylindrical body being capable of being partially inserted in a first loop of the openings and blocked in a second loop of the openings after partial insertion in the first loop of the openings, said plug-type cylindrical body comprising locking means consisting of a top circular part, an intermediate circular part and a bottom part with the general shape of a truncated pyramid with a circular base, an opening being provided through the plug-type cylindrical body comprising the locking means, said locking means being presented in the form of a lug that can be inserted in the opening provided through the plug-type cylindrical body.

In an additional advantageous manner, the secondary loop comprises a material indentation on its periphery, the lug being capable of cooperating with the indentation once the plug-type cylindrical body is blocked in the secondary loop and the lug is inserted in the opening, it then being impossible to remove the plug-type cylindrical body from the secondary loop.

According to another embodiment, the invention relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arm on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, the fixing means being characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug-type cylindrical body, at least one of the plug-type cylindrical bodies comprising locking means for preventing the plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the opening in which the plug-type cylindrical body is partially inserted, the locking means being presented in the form of a secondary body linked to the plug-type cylindrical body by mean of a material bridge, the secondary body being capable of deforming from a position in which it is capable of being inserted in a secondary opening to a locking position in the secondary opening, a pivoting element inserted in the secondary body being capable of deforming said secondary body, a grip tab being provided on the pivoting element, the secondary opening advantageously being substantially ovoidal.

According to a final embodiment, the invention relates to means for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on a body shell element extending overall vertically at the rear of a motor vehicle, the drive mechanism comprising a support plate carrying at least one drive shaft of a wiper device such as a windscreen wiper, said mechanism comprising at least two radial arms, the free end thereof comprising means for fixing the radial arm on the body shell element, the fixing means being capable of cooperating with at least one opening provided on the body shell element, the fixing means being characterised in that the means for fixing the radial arm consist of a plug-type cylindrical body, said at least one opening consisting of a main loop and a secondary loop, means for locking the plug-type cylindrical body being provided such as to be insertable in the main loop once the plug-type cylindrical body is inserted in the secondary loop, the locking means consisting of a longitudinal element comprising, at each of its ends, a curved transversal element.

The present invention is described below with the help of merely illustrative examples that do not limit the scope of the present invention, and according to the appended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of means according to the prior art for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device, comprising two radial arms for fixing on the inner face of a body shell element;

FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of the means for fixing a drive mechanism according to the invention;

FIG. 3 is a three-quarter perspective view of a first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm of the drive mechanism;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention;

FIG. 6 is a partial front view of the openings provided on the body shell element, capable of cooperating with the first and second embodiments of the means for fixing a radial arm;

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the openings capable of cooperating with the second embodiments of the means for fixing a radial arm;

FIG. 8 is a partial view of the openings partially shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a partial front view of the openings provided on the body shell element capable of cooperating with a third embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention;

FIGS. 10 and 11 are, respectively, side and perspective views of the third embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention;

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of the third embodiment of the fixing means fixed on the body shell element;

FIG. 13 is a partial front view of the openings provided on the body shell element capable of cooperating with a fourth embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are, respectively, side and top views of the fourth embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention;

FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the fixing means fixed on the body shell element;

FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view of a specific embodiment of the openings provided on the body shell element capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm;

FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of the blocking means provided on the openings of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view of another particular embodiment of the openings provided on the body shell element capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of the blocking means provided on the openings of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm of the drive mechanism;

FIGS. 22, 23 and 24 are, respectively, side, top and bottom three-quarter perspective views of the fifth embodiment of the fixing means according to the invention;

FIG. 25 is a partial view of the openings of the body shell element capable of cooperating with the fifth embodiment of the fixing means;

FIG. 26 is a top view of the fifth embodiment of the fixing means according to the invention associated with a radial arm;

FIG. 27 is a top view of the fifth embodiment of the fixing means inserted in the opening of FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the blocking and locking means capable of cooperating with the fifth embodiment of the fixing means according to the invention;

FIGS. 29 and 30 respectively show two successive steps during the insertion of the locking means of FIG. 28 in the fixing means according to the fifth embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention capable of cooperating with a pair of openings provided on the body shell element;

FIG. 32 is a top view of the sixth embodiment of the invention in locked state on the body shell element;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention capable of cooperating with an opening provided on the body shell element;

FIG. 34 is a side view of the seventh embodiment of the invention in locked state on the body shell element; and

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an eight embodiment of the fixing means and their locking means according to the invention.

For the rest of the description, the orientations vertical, longitudinal and transversal will be adopted non-limitingly according to the reference frame V, L, T, such as indicated in FIG. 1.

The “right hand” and “left hand” positions are also respectively understood to be the positions to the right and left of an individual facing the drive mechanism fixed on the inner face of the body shell element.

The same reference numbers are used to describe identical elements throughout the entire description.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of means according to the prior art for fixing a drive mechanism of a wiper device on the inner face of a body shell element.

It therefore shows a drive mechanism 1 of a windscreen wiper device 2, of a well-known type, the drive mechanism 1 being presented in the form of a support plate 3 with a drive shaft 4 capable of driving the wiper device and passing through an opening 5 provided in a rear door 6 on which the drive mechanism 1 is fixed.

The rear door 6 of a motor vehicle consists of a body shell element 7, generally formed from a cut and folded sheet, and the window 2.

The body shell element 7 comprises, on its front inner face 7a, which corresponds to the inner face of the rear door 6, the drive mechanism 1 of a device for wiping the outer surface of the window 2, such as a windscreen-wiper blade of a well-known type.

According to the prior art and as shown in FIG. 1, the support plate 3 comprises two radial arms 8, the free ends 9 of which comprise a radial finger 10 capable of being inserted and solidly attached in an opening 11 of a support plate 12 fixed on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7.

FIG. 1 only shows a support plate 3 with two radial arms 8, although it is possible to manufacture a support plate 3 with three radial arms 8 in order to allow better fixing of the drive mechanism 1 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7 of the rear door 6.

FIG. 2 shows a partial perspective view of a first embodiment of the means for fixing 13 the drive mechanism 1 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7.

The drive mechanism 1 as shown in FIG. 2 comprises three radial arms 8: one left-hand radial arm 8a, one median radial arm 8b and one right-hand radial arm 8c.

The free end 9 of each of the three radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c) is provided with means for fixing (14, 15) the radial arm (8a, 8b, 8c) on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7.

FIG. 2 shows two embodiments of the means for fixing the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c) on the body shell element 7 which constitute means for fixing a drive mechanism 1, a first embodiment 14 being described in FIGS. 3 and 4 and a second embodiment 15 in FIG. 5.

It is possible to manufacture means for fixing 13 a drive mechanism 1 based only on the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 14, based only on the second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15, or based on a combination of the two embodiments of means for fixing a radial arm (14, 15).

The right-hand and left-hand radial arms (8a, 8c) are fixed to the body shell element 7 by means of the first embodiment of the means for fixing 14 a radial arm, these fixing means 14 being presented in the general shape of a plug-type cylindrical body 16 and being shown in more detail in FIGS. 3 and 4.

The plug-type cylindrical body 16 consists of three parts:

• • a top part 17, in the general shape of a disc, called “top disc” 17,
  • an intermediate part 18, in the general shape of a disc, called “intermediate disc”, with a larger diameter than the disc of the top part 17, and j
  • a bottom part 19, in the general shape of a truncated pyramid with a circular base, in which the diameter of the circular base is smaller than the diameter of the intermediate disc 18 but larger than the diameter of the top disc 17 and in which the circular base is placed opposite the bottom face 18a of the intermediate disc 18.

The top and intermediate discs (17, 18) are separated so as to define a circular gap 20 between them, henceforth called “top gap” 20.

Likewise, the separation between the intermediate disc 18 and the base of the bottom truncated pyramid defines a gap 21 called “bottom gap” 21.

Due to the generally cylindrical shape of the plug-type cylindrical body 16, the gaps (20, 21) therefore form intermediate cylindrical parts of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 which have a smaller diameter than the diameters of the top disc 17, intermediate disc 18 and circular base of the truncated pyramid 19.

The free end 9 of each radial arm (8a, 8b, 8c) is presented in the form of two curved teeth 22 defining a circular inner space 23 in which the top gap 20 can be inserted due to its complementary shape.

In this way, it is possible to solidly attach the plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 to the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c) so that the pyramid-shaped end 19 is directed towards the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7 when fixing the drive mechanism 1.

Furthermore, the top surface 17a of the top disc 17 of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 comprises an inner opening 16a at its centre with functions that will be described later.

Advantageously, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 is made from a slightly deformable semi-rigid material, for example rubber.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the second embodiment of the means for fixing 15 a radial arm and, as shown in FIG. 2, more precisely means for fixing the median radial arm 8b on the body shell element 7.

The second means for fixing a radial arm 15 consist of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 according to the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 14 on which a second plug-type body 24, with a generally cylindrical shape, is fixed by a radial tongue 25, solidly attached to the second plug-type cylindrical body 24, the free end 26 of which is fixed to the top surface 17a of the top disc 17 of the first plug-type cylindrical body 16.

The tongue 25 thus defines a material bridge between the two plugs (16, 24).

Moreover, the second plug-type cylindrical body 24 has, on its bottom end, a truncated pyramid with a circular base 27, with a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the second plug 24.

A circular gap 28 between the circular base of the truncated pyramid 27 and the rest of the second plug-type cylindrical body 24 is defined between a main cylindrical body 24a and the truncated pyramid with a circular base 27.

The circular base of the truncated pyramid 27 of the second plug-type cylindrical body 24 is opposite the bottom end 24b of the main body 24a.

FIG. 6 shows a partial front view of the openings provided on the body shell element 7 capable of cooperating with the first 14 and second 15 embodiments of the means for fixing a radial arm, as shown in FIG. 5.

In fact, since the second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15 are partially made based on the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 14, FIG. 6 also shows the openings 29 capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 14.

Thus, FIG. 6 shows two openings (29, 30):

• • the first opening 29, called main opening 29, is capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15, which is to say with the first plug-type cylindrical body 16,
  • the second opening 30 is capable of cooperating with the second plug 24 included in the second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15.

The first opening 29 is presented in the general shape of an eight, with one loop, called main loop 29a having a larger diameter than the other loop, called secondary loop 29b.

The diameter of the main loop 29a is larger than the diameter of the circular base of the truncated pyramid 19 of the first plug 16 but smaller than the diameter of the intermediate disc 18 of the first plug 16.

The diameter of the secondary loop 29b is smaller than the diameter of the main loop 29a, but also than the diameter of the circular base of the truncated pyramid 19 and of the intermediate disc 18.

Advantageously, the diameter of the secondary loop 29b is slightly smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical part forming the bottom gap 21.

When fixing the plug-type cylindrical body 16 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7, the user inserts the bottom part 19 of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 in the first opening 29 level with its main loop 29a.

Due to the difference in diameters, the user can only insert the bottom part 19 of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 through the main loop 29a of the first opening 29, the bottom face 18a of the intermediate disc 18 then coming to a stop against the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7.

In order to block the plug-type cylindrical body 16 in an immobile position, the user translates the plug-type cylindrical body 16 towards the secondary loop 29b of the opening 29, which has a slightly smaller diameter than the diameter defined by the bottom circular gap 21.

Since the first plug 16 is made from a slightly deformable semi-rigid material, compression forces are formed between the bottom gap 21 and the perimeter of the secondary loop 29b causing the plug-type cylindrical body 16 to be held in place in the secondary loop 29b of the first opening 29.

The second opening 30 has a slightly smaller diameter than the diameter of the circular base of the truncated pyramid 27 of the second plug-type cylindrical body 24 and than the diameter of the main body 24a of the second plug-type cylindrical body 24.

However, since the second plug 24 is also made from a slightly deformable semi-rigid material and given the difference in diameters between the circular base of the truncated pyramid 27 and the second opening 30, it is possible to insert the truncated-pyramid shaped bottom end 27 of the second plug 24 in the opening 30 in order to block and lock the second plug 24 in the second opening 30.

Thus, in order to fix the drive mechanism 1 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7, given the presence of three radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), three main openings 29 are provided on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7, which is to say in the sheet of the rear door 6.

The right-hand and left-hand radial arms (8a, 8c) comprise, on their free end 9, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 such as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 according to the first embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 14, while the median radial arm 8b has on its free end the plug-type cylindrical bodies (16, 24) shown in FIG. 5 according to the second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15.

When fixing the drive mechanism 1 on the body shell element 7, the user must, in a first step, insert the pyramid-shaped ends 19 of the main plugs 16 in the main loop 29a of the first openings 29.

The bottom faces 18a of the three intermediate discs 18 of the three main plugs 16 then come into stopping contact against the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7.

Then, with a rotational movement (in clockwise direction as shown in FIG. 2), the user passes the bottom gap 21 of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 into the secondary loop 29b by sliding the bottom face 18a of the intermediate disc 18 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7 and obtains, by deformation and the creation of compression forces on the bottom gap 21, the blocking of the plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 on the body shell element 7 in the secondary loop 29b of the main openings 29.

In order to prevent an involuntary rotational movement in anticlockwise direction from causing the plugs 16 to unblock from the main openings 29, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 of the bottom arm 8b comprises a plug-type cylindrical body 24, which includes a pyramid-shaped end 27 which is capable of being inserted by deformation in the secondary opening 30 after the main plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 have been blocked in the secondary loops 29b of the main openings 29.

Means for locking and blocking the fixing means (14, 15) are formed in this way.

In order to unlock the means for fixing (14, 15) the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), it is advisable to exert a longitudinal pulling force on the tongue 25 in order to separate the gap 28 of the second plug 24 blocked in the secondary opening 30 to then, by means of a rotational movement, slide the main plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 from the secondary loop 29b to the main loop 29a.

It is evident that those skilled in the art will be able to position the first and second openings (29, 30) according to the length of the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), the length of the tongue 25 and the number of radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c).

Likewise, those skilled in the art will be capable of adapting the diameters of the openings to the diameter of the plugs (16, 24), in particular to the diameter of the intermediate disc 18, of the cylindrical part forming the bottom gap 21 and of the circular base of the truncated pyramid (19, 27) in order to allow the blocking of the plugs (16, 24) in the orifices (29, 30) by deformation and the creation of compression forces.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the secondary openings 30 capable of cooperating with the second embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm 15.

In a more precise manner, according to this alternative embodiment, the secondary opening 30, capable of cooperating with the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24, is presented in the general shape of an eight, with a main loop 30a and a secondary loop 30b with a smaller diameter than the main loop 30a.

FIG. 8 depicts in a more precise manner this new embodiment of the secondary opening 30.

The other elements described in the preceding figures remain the same.

According to this new embodiment, the tongue 25 of the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 is fixed so as to pivot around the longitudinal axis of the main plug-type cylindrical body 16 on the top surface 17a of its top disc 17.

In this way, the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 is capable of pivoting around the longitudinal axis of the main plug-type cylindrical body 16.

Thus, after inserting the plugs 16 in the main loop 29a of the main openings 29, the user can insert the pyramid-shaped end 27 of the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 in the main loop 30a of the secondary opening 30 without requiring excessive deformation force during insertion of the pyramid-shaped end 27 of the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 in the secondary opening 30 as is the case with the secondary opening 30 such as described in FIG. 6.

In order to allow the blocking of the fixing means (14, 15), the user then makes the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 pivot from its position in the main loop 30a to its position in the secondary loop 30b where the secondary plug-type cylindrical body 24 is held in place by deformation and the creation of compression forces on the gap 28 of the second plug 24 since the diameter of the gap 28 is slightly larger than the diameter of the secondary loop 30b of the secondary opening 30.

It is evident that those skilled in the art will be able to position the first and second openings (29, 30) according to the length of the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), the length of the tongue 25 and the number of radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c).

Likewise, those skilled in the art will be capable of adapting the diameters of the openings to the diameter of the plugs (16, 24), in particular to the diameter of the intermediate disc 18, of the cylindrical part forming the bottom gap 21 and of the circular base of the truncated pyramid (19, 27) in order to allow the blocking of the plugs (16, 24) in the orifices (29, 30) by deformation and the creation of compression forces.

FIG. 9 is a partial view of the openings provided on the body shell element capable of cooperating with a third embodiment of the means for fixing a radial arm according to the invention.

In a more precise manner, according to this embodiment, a main opening 29 is provided, with a main loop 29a and a secondary loop 29b, these loops (29a, 29b) being capable of cooperating with the main plug 16 as described above.

A secondary opening 31 with a substantially rectangular shape is also provided.

The main and secondary openings (29, 31) are capable of cooperating with the third embodiment of the fixing means 32 as depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 in side and three-quarter top views respectively.

The fixing means 32 according to this third embodiment are substantially identical to the fixing means according to the second embodiment of the fixing means 15 such as described in FIG. 5, except that the second plug-type cylindrical body 24 is replaced with a substantially parallelepipedal element 33 comprising on its free end a pair of folded tabs 34, directed substantially towards the tongue 25 and arranged on two opposite sides of the parallelepipedal element 33, more precisely on the two breadths of the rectangular cross-section of the parallelepipedal element 33.

Thus, the parallelepipedal element 33 is presented according to a front view in the general shape of an arrow with a substantially flat point.

The tabs 34 are advantageously tilted in relation to the vertical axis defined by the longitudinal axis of the main plug 16, and more precisely by an angle comprised between 1 and 300, and more precisely between 1 and 10°.

The tabs 34 are also made from a deformable material, for example of the same type as that used for the main plug 16.

When fixing the plug-type cylindrical body 16 on the inner face 7a of the body shell element 7, the user inserts the bottom part 19 of the plug-type cylindrical body 16 in the first opening 29 level with its main loop 29a and translates the plug-type cylindrical body 16 towards the secondary loop 29b of the opening 29 which has a slightly smaller diameter than the diameter defined by the bottom circular gap 21 to allow the blocking of the first plug-type cylindrical body 16, as described above.

In order to prevent an involuntary rotational movement in anticlockwise direction from causing the plugs 16 to unblock from the main openings 29, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 of the bottom arm 8b comprises a parallelepipedal element 33, the free end of which is capable of being inserted in the rectangular opening 31 after the plug type cylindrical bodies 16 are blocked in the secondary loops 29b of the main openings 29.

The free ends of the tabs 34 then rest against the outer face 7b of the body shell element 7 and exert a retaining force on this outer face 7b.

This insertion of the parallelepipedal element 33 is made possible by the fact that the tabs 34 are made from a slightly deformable material, thus allowing a locking of the drive mechanism 1 on the body shell element 7.

Once the tabs 34 are inserted in the rectangular opening 31, as shown in FIG. 12, due to the tilted, vertically directed shape of the tabs 34, the parallelepipedal element 33 can no longer disengage from the rectangular secondary opening 31, unless the user exerts a transversal pushing force on the two tabs 34 in order to push them against the parallelepipedal element 33, followed by a longitudinal force to disengage and remove the free end of the parallelepipedal element 33 from the opening 11.

Thus, it is not possible to unblock the parallelepipedal element 33 by exerting a pulling force on the tongue 25, as is the case for the second embodiment of the fixing means 15.

It is evident that those skilled in the art will be able to position the first and second openings (29, 30) according to the length of the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), the length of the tongue 25 and the number of radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c).

Likewise, those skilled in the art will be capable of adapting the dimensions of the openings (29, 31) according to the dimensions of the main plug 16 and of the parallelepipedal element 33.

FIG. 13 is a partial front view of the openings provided on the body shell element 7 capable of cooperating with a fourth embodiment of the means for fixing 35 a radial arm according to the invention, respectively shown in side and top views in FIGS. 14 and 15.

More precisely, the body shell element 7 comprises a pair of openings, a main opening 29, such as previously described, with two loops (29a, 29b) as well as a secondary opening 36 comprising a tilted projecting tooth 37, advantageously at an acute angle in relation to the planar surface defined by the surface of the body shell element 7.

The secondary opening 36 advantageously has a square shape, the tooth 37 resting against one of the sides of the square and, more precisely, on the side of the square facing the secondary loop 29b of the main opening 29, the tooth 37 then being directed towards the opposite side of the square so that the shape of the tooth 37 substantially complements the inner space defined by the square second opening 36.

It is evident that the secondary opening 36 can also be rectangular, triangular or of any other suitable shape.

The third embodiment of the fixing means according to the invention 35 consists of the first plug-type cylindrical body 16 such as previously described comprising, level with its intermediate disc 18, a material extension in the shape of a substantially planar, rectangular tongue 38 having an inner opening 39 on the inside level with its end.

FIG. 16 shows the fourth embodiment of the fixing means 35 fixed on the body shell element 7.

In fact, in order to allow blocking and locking of the fixing means 36, the user must initially insert the plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 in the main openings 29 provided on the body shell element 7, as previously described.

Once the user has translated the plugs 16 into the secondary loops 29b of the main openings 29, in order to block and lock the drive mechanism 1 in this position and to prevent an involuntary movement from unblocking the fixing means (14, 36), the tooth 37 is capable of being inserted in the opening 39 of the tongue 38, the tilt of the tooth 37 being such that the tooth 37 exercises a pushing force opposite to a pushing movement directed from the secondary loop 29b to the main loop 29a.

It is evident that those skilled in the art will be capable of adapting the dimensions of the tongue 28 according to the location of the secondary opening 36 and of the tooth 37, the tooth 37 having any suitable shape.

The tongue 38 is advantageously provided with its free end thicker than the rest of the tongue 38 so as to allow a greater or smaller tilting height of the tooth 37 and so that the latter remains confined in the inner space defined by the opening 39 of the tongue 38.

In an alternative manner, some of the sides of the tooth 37 can be directly linked and attached to the outer surface 7b of the body shell element 7, for example with its two lateral sides directly attached to this surface 7b, thus making it possible to reinforce the rigidity of the tooth 37.

FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view of a specific embodiment of the openings 29 provided on the body shell element 7 capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing 14 a radial arm, such as described previously.

More precisely, according to this alternative embodiment of the main openings 29, means for blocking 40 the main plug 16 in the secondary loop 29b of the main openings 29 are provided.

The blocking means 40 are presented in the form of a pair of teeth 41 provided on the circumference of the main loop 29a level with the central part of the main opening 29, which is to say, level with the intermediate part between the main loop 29a and the secondary loop 29b.

The teeth 41 are slightly tilted in relation to the planar surface defined by the surface of the body shell element 7, advantageously at an angle of less than 45°.

The teeth 41 such as shown more precisely in FIG. 18, are made by forming a slot in the surface of the sheet of the body shell element 7 and folding a part of the sheet split in this way by lifting it in order to form a tilted tooth 41 which is substantially triangular with a sharp edge 42.

In this way, the tooth 41 has a raised point-shaped end with a retaining edge formed by the sharp edge 42 capable of locking the plug-type cylindrical body 16 when the latter is translated into the secondary loop 29b of the main opening 29.

Each tooth 41 consists of a side 41a which is the same as the surface of the body shell element 7, a second side 41b delimiting the perimeter of the main loop 29a and a third side 41c which is raised and comes from the slot made in the body shell element 7, the link between the second and third sides (41b, 41c) forming the point-shaped end of the tooth 41.

The plug-type cylindrical body 16, and more precisely the intermediate disc 18, is advantageously capable of sliding over the teeth 41 to be blocked in the secondary loop 29b.

The plug-type cylindrical body 16 is, in fact, capable of deforming slightly, in particular level with its intermediate disc 18, to pass from the main loop 29a to the secondary loop 29b.

Once it is in this position, the retaining edges 42 of the teeth 41 prevent the opposite movement from being performed due to their elevation, and the user must exert a longitudinal force on the teeth 41 to position them at the same level as the planar surface of the body shell element 7 and thus to allow the plug-type cylindrical body 16 to pass from the secondary loop 29b to the main loop 29a.

Advantageously, the teeth 41 are provided for each main opening 29 of the means for fixing the radial arms (8a, 8b, 8c), it being understood that it is only possible to provide these blocking means 40 on one or two main openings 29.

FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view of a second particular embodiment of the blocking means 43 provided on the openings 29 of the body shell element 7 capable of cooperating with the first embodiment of the means for fixing 14 a radial arm, FIG. 20 being an enlarged view of this second embodiment of the blocking means 43.

According to this alternative embodiment, the means for blocking 43 the plug-type cylindrical body 16 in the secondary loop 29b consist of a pair of elevations or stops 44 which are substantially bi-planar and arranged on the circumference of the main loop 29a level with the central part of the main opening 29, which is to say level with the intermediate part between the main loop 29a and the secondary loop 29b.

The elevations 44 consist of:

• • a first triangular plane 45 having one side 45a that is the same as the surface of the body shell element 7, a second side 45b delimiting the perimeter of the main loop 29a and a third side 45c, and
  • a second triangular plane 46 having one side 46a that is the same as the surface of the body shell element 7, a second side 46b delimiting the perimeter of the main loop 29a and a third side 46c that is the same as the third side 45c of the first triangular plane 45.

The first and second planes (45, 46) are substantially raised in relation to the planar surface of the body shell element 7.

Advantageously, the first plane 45 has a tilt that is less than the tilt of the second plane 46.

The second plane 46, due to its conformation, has a point formed by the link between the second and third sides (45b, 45c) substantially directed towards the main loop 29a.

The tilt of the second plane 46 is such that once the main plug-type cylindrical body 16 is introduced by sliding in the secondary loop 29b this plug is blocked in position in the secondary loop 29b and the second plane 46 then forms means for stopping and blocking this plug 16 in the secondary loop 29b, unless a suitable pushing force is exerted to disengage the plug 16 from the secondary loop 29b by deformation.

Those skilled in the art will be capable of adapting the number, size, shape and tilt of the planes that form the elevations 44 such as to obtain blocking and locking of the plugs 16 in the secondary loop 29b.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the means for fixing 41 a radial arm of the drive mechanism 1.

FIG. 21 shows the fixing means 47 according to this fifth embodiment, only provided level with the fixing means of the median radial arm 8b, the other radial arms (8a, 8c) being fixed on the body shell element 7 with the help of fixing means 14 such as previously described, which is to say only with the help of the plug-type cylindrical body 16.

According to this embodiment, the fixing means 47 are made from a plug-type cylindrical body 48, such as shown in the three perspective views in FIGS. 22 to 24, this plug 48 being capable of cooperating with an opening 49 made in the body shell element such as shown in FIG. 25.

The plug-type cylindrical body 48 consists of:

• • a top part made up of a circular part 50 with a rectangular part 51 adjacent to its perimeter, an opening 52 being provided in the top part and, more precisely, extending in the circular 50 and rectangular parts 51, the opening 52 therefore also having a circular shape 53 with a rectangular part 54 adjoining the perimeter of the circular part 53;
  • an disc-shaped intermediate part 55, and
  • a bottom part 56 in the general shape of a truncated pyramid with a circular base, in which the diameter of the circular base is smaller than the diameter of the intermediate disc 55 and in which the circular base is placed opposite the bottom face 55a of the intermediate disc 55.

The circular part 53 of the opening 52 of the top part is advantageously provided passing through the intermediate part 55 and the bottom part 56 of the plug-type cylindrical body 48.

On the other hand, the rectangular part 54 of the opening 52 indeed passes through the intermediate part 55 but only partially through the bottom part 56, thus forming a substantially parallelepipedal internal cavity 57 in the bottom part 56.

The top and intermediate parts are separated so as to define between them a circular gap 58, henceforth called “top gap” 58.

Likewise, the separation between the intermediate disc 55 and the base of the bottom truncated pyramid 56 defines a gap 59 called “bottom gap” 58.

It has already been seen that the free end 9 of the median radial arm 8b is presented in the form of two curved teeth 22.

Thus, in order to fix the plug 48 on the radial arm 8b, the teeth surround the circular part 50 of the top part and, more precisely, are partially inserted in the top gap 58.

Stopping means 60 forming a pair of projecting elements 61, such as shown more precisely in FIG. 26, are provided on the top surface of the intermediate disc 55 and make it possible to prevent the rotation of the plug 48 once the latter has been blocked in the teeth 22, the projecting elements 61 being provided surrounding the rectangular part 51 of the top part of the plug-type cylindrical body 48.

FIG. 25 shows a partial view of the opening 49 provided on the body shell element 7 capable of cooperating with the plug 48 according to this new embodiment.

The opening 49 is thus presented in the general shape of an eight with a main loop 49a and a secondary loop 49b, the diameter of the main loop 49a being larger than the diameter of the secondary loop 49b.

The secondary loop 49b also has a substantially rectangular material indentation 62 on its perimeter, with functions that will be explained below.

Once the plug 48 is solidly attached with the teeth 22 of the radial arm 8b, the user partially inserts the plug 48 in the main loop 49a of the opening 49 until the bottom surface 55a of the intermediate disc 55 comes to a stop against the perimeter of the main loop 49a, the diameter of the main loop 49a being smaller than the diameter of the intermediate disc 55.

Once this partial insertion is made, the user then translates the plug 48 into the secondary loop 49b, the perimeter of the secondary loop 49b then being in contact with the periphery of the bottom gap 59, the plug being in the position shown in a top view in FIG. 27.

In this position, the rectangular indentation 62 of the secondary loop 49b is advantageously arranged as a continuation of the rectangular opening 54 partially passing through the plug-type cylindrical body 48.

Thus, once the plug-type cylindrical body 48 is fixed in the secondary loop 49b, the rectangular indentation 62 is positioned directly between the parallelepipedal cavity 57 of the bottom pyramid-shaped part 56 and, more precisely, between the circular base of the pyramid 56 and the intermediate disc 55.

Those skilled in the art will obviously be capable of adapting the position and the dimensions of the rectangular indentation 62 according to the dimensions of the rectangular opening 51, the position of the plug-type cylindrical body 48 and its orientation in the radial arm 8b, the dimension of the radial arm 8b and the orientation of the teeth 22 of the free end of the radial arm 8b.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the blocking or locking means 63 capable of cooperating with the fifth embodiment of the fixing means 48 according to the invention.

The locking means 63 are presented in the form of a lug 64 comprising a cylindrical main body 65 having on one of its ends a circular transversal plate 66 and on its perimeter a material bulge 67 forming a parallelepipedal element extending from the circular plate 66 with a length that is slightly less than the height defined by the cylindrical main body 65.

FIGS. 29 and 30 respectively show two successive steps when inserting blocking means 63 in the fixing means 48.

It can therefore be seen that the material bulge 67 has a shape that complements the rectangular part 54 of the opening 52 of the top part 49 of the plug 48 and that the cylindrical body 65 also has a shape that complements the circular part 53 of this opening 52.

Thus, when inserting the blocking means 63 in the plug 48, the parallelepipedal bulge 67 is inserted in the parallelepipedal cavity 57 made in the bottom part 56 of the plug 48, this bulge 67 also passing through the material indentation 62, thus allowing the plug 48 to be locked in position in the secondary loop 49b of the body shell element 7.

Once the lug 64 is completely inserted in the opening 52, the transversal plate 66 is pushed directly against the top part of the plug 48.

Advantageously, the lug 64 is made from a plastic material or rubber and is connected to the plug 48, for example by means of a wire.

FIGS. 31 and 32 are respectively perspective and top views of a sixth embodiment of the means for fixing 68 a radial arm according to the invention capable of cooperating with a pair of openings provided on the body shell element 7.

According to this embodiment, a pair of openings are provided on the body shell element 7, a first opening 29 in the general shape of an eight with a main loop 29a and a secondary loop 29b, as well as a second opening 69 with a generally oval shape.

The plug-type cylindrical body 16 is of the same type as previously described in FIGS. 3 and 4, and comprises a tongue or material bridge 70 as an extension of its intermediate disc 18, this tongue 70 comprising on its free end a secondary body 71, advantageously having a generally elliptic shape in which is inserted a pivoting element 72 consisting of a main body 73 comprising, on its planar top surface in the same plane as the material bridge 70, a tab 74 capable of being gripped by the assembler of the drive mechanism 1 on the body shell element 7.

The material bridge 70 and the secondary body 71 are made from a deformable material such as rubber, while the pivoting element 72 is made from a rigid material.

The secondary body 71 advantageously has a shape that complements the inner space between the two lateral edges of the ovoidal opening 69.

Since the main body 73 of the pivoting element 72 has an elliptic shape and the secondary body 71 is made from a deformable material, the secondary body 71 also has an elliptic shape.

The substantially elliptic secondary body 71 has a major axis which is substantially equal to the largest dimension between the two edges (69a, 69b) of the ovoidal opening 69, so that the main body 73 is capable of being inserted in the opening 69 only when the pivoting element 72 is in the position such as shown in FIG. 31, namely that the grip tab 74 is arranged as an extension of the material bridge 70 and the same as or parallel to the minor axis of the ellipse of the main body 73 and the main body 73 has its major axis parallel to or the same as the largest dimension between the two lateral edges (69a, 69b) of the ovoidal opening 69.

In order to allow the fixing of the drive mechanism 1 on the body shell element 7, the user must first partially insert the plug-type cylindrical body 16 in the main loop 29a of the main opening 29 until the intermediate disc 18 comes to a stop against the perimeter of the opening 29.

By means of a translation movement, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 is engaged in the secondary loop 29b such as previously described.

In order to allow locking of the fixing means 68, the secondary body 71 is capable of engaging in the opening 69.

In order to block the secondary body 71 in the opening 69, the user must grip the tab 74 and pivot it by an angle of 90° in the clockwise or anticlockwise direction (see FIG. 32), so that the largest dimension of the main body of the pivoting element is substantially the same as the distance comprised between the two ends or points of the ovoidal opening 69.

Advantageously, the distance between the two points is slightly smaller than the major axis of the secondary body 73, so as to obtain blocking and support by friction and compression of the secondary body 73 in the ovoidal opening 69.

FIGS. 33 and 34 are, respectively, perspective and lateral section views of a seventh embodiment of the means for fixing 75 a radial arm according to the invention.

According to this embodiment, the fixing means 75 consist of a plug-type cylindrical body 16, such as previously described comprising, level with its intermediate disc 18, a locking tab 76 extending overall radially to the longitudinal axis of the plug 16 and the free end 76a of which comprises a ramp-shaped portion 77 which is capable of resting against a portion 78 of the body shell element 7 also in the shape of a ramp.

The body shell element 7 has an opening 79 consisting of a main opening 80 and a secondary opening 81.

The main opening 80 is overall circular and has a diameter at least equal to the diameter defined by the circular base of the truncated pyramid 19 while the second opening 81 has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter defined by the bottom gap 21.

The link between the main opening 80 and the secondary opening 81 is provided by means of a groove 82 with a width smaller than the diameter of the main 80 and secondary 81 openings.

When fixing the fixing means 75 on the body shell element 7, the user first inserts the bottom part of the plug-type cylindrical body 16, shaped like an upside down truncated pyramid 19, in the main opening 80, then translates the plug towards the secondary opening 81, where the bottom gap 21 is compressed due to the difference in diameter between the bottom gap 21 and the secondary opening 81.

When the ramp-shaped portion 77 of the fixing tab 76 rests against the portion 78 of the body shell element 7, the fixing tab 76 deforms elastically forwards and then, when the plug 16 is partially compressed in the secondary opening 81, the fixing tab 76 elastically returns to its initial position shown in FIG. 34 in which the ramp-shaped portion 77 is inserted in the main opening 80.

The radial end edge 77a of the ramp-shaped portion 78 then comes to a stop against the edge opposite the main opening 80, so as to prevent the plug-type cylindrical body 16 from moving out of the opening 79 following an involuntary disengagement movement.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a new embodiment of the fixing means and their locking means.

Thus, the means for fixing 14 the radial arms 8 on the body shell element 7 consist of plug-type cylindrical bodies 16 such as previously described for FIGS. 3 and 4.

Once these cylindrical bodies 16 are partially inserted in the main loops 29a of the openings 29 and slid into the secondary loops 29b, in order to prevent an involuntary movement from dislodging these cylindrical bodies 16 from the secondary loops 29b, means are provided for locking 83 the plug-type cylindrical body 16, which are capable of being inserted in the main loop 29a.

These locking means 83 consist of a longitudinal element 84 with a curved transversal element 85 on each of its two ends.

Advantageously, the longitudinal element 84 is slightly longer than the largest free distance of the main loop 29a once the plug-type cylindrical body 16 is inserted in the secondary loop 29b.

The longitudinal element 84 and, more precisely, the curved transversal elements 85 are capable, on the one hand, of resting against the plug-type cylindrical body 16 while, on the other hand, they rest against the perimeter of the main loop 29a.

In this way, the plug-type cylindrical body 16 cannot pass from the secondary loop 29b into the main loop 29a once the longitudinal element 84 is inserted in the main loop 29a.

Claims

1. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into a first opening on the at least one body shell element, wherein the at least one plug-type cylindrical body comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the first opening on the at least one body shell element,the locking mechanism comprises secondary element connected to the at least one plug-type cylindrical body by a material bridge,the secondary element is configured to be partially inserted into a second opening on the at least one body shell element, andthe secondary element is configured to be unlocked from a locking position by applying transversal and then longitudinal forces on the secondary element in a longitudinal axis defined by the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

2. The fixing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the secondary element is parallelepipedal.

3. The fixing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the secondary element comprises on a free end thereof a mechanism configured to exert retaining forces on an outer face of the at least one body shell element when the secondary element is inserted into the second opening.

4. The fixing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the mechanism configured to exert the retaining force on the outer face of the at least one body shell element comprises at least one tab provided on the free end of the secondary element, the free end of the at least one tab configured to rest against the outer surface of the at least one body shell element.

5. The fixing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the at least one tab is disposed tilted in relation to an longitudinal axis defined by the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

6. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into a first opening on the at least one body shell element, wherein the at least one the cylindrical body comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the first opening on the at least one body shell element, andthe locking mechanism is configured to exert a transversal locking force in a longitudinal axis defined by the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

7. The fixing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a tongue comprising an internal opening configured to cooperate with a tooth disposed on an inner surface of the at least one body shell element.

8. The fixing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the tongue is a material extension of the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

9. The fixing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the inner opening is a square shape.

10. The fixing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the tooth is disposed tilted in relation to a planar surface of the body shell element.

11. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body, whereinthe fixing apparatus is configured to cooperate with a first opening on the at least one body shell elementthe first opening comprise a main loop and a secondary loop, andthe first opening comprises a blocking mechanism for blocking the at least one plug-type cylindrical body in the secondary loop of the first opening.

12. The fixing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the blocking mechanism comprises a pair of teeth provided on a circumference of the main loop.

13. The fixing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the teeth are tilted in relation to a planar surface defined by a surface of the body shell element at an angle of less than 45°.

14. The fixing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the teeth are made by forming a slot through the at least one body shell element and folding a part of a bodywork of the at least one body shell element by lifting.

15. The fixing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the at least one plug-type cylindrical body is configured to slide over the teeth after partial insertion into the main loop, to be blocked in the secondary loop.

16. The fixing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the blocking mechanism comprises a pair of elevated portions.

17. The fixing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the pair of elevated portions are bi-planar.

18. The fixing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the pair of elevations are arranged on a circumference of the main loop.

19. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into a first opening on the at least one body shell element, wherein the at least one cylindrical body comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one plug-type cylindrical body from disengaging from the first opening on the body shell element, andthe locking mechanism is configured to be inserted into the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

20. The fixing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the at least one plug-type cylindrical body can be partially inserted into the first opening provided on an inner face of the at least one body shell element.

21. The fixing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the first opening comprises a first loop and a second loop having different diameters.

22. The fixing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into the first loop and blocked in the second loop after partial insertion into the first loop.

23. The fixing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the at least one plug-type cylindrical body comprises a top circular part, an intermediate circular part and a bottom part, having a truncated pyramid shape with a circular base.

24. The fixing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein an opening is provided through the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

25. The fixing apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a lug configured to be inserted in the opening of the at least one plug-type cylindrical body.

26. The fixing apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the secondary loop comprises a material indentation on its periphery.

27. The fixing apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the lug is configured to cooperate with the indentation once the at least one plug-type cylindrical body is blocked in the secondary loop and the lug is inserted into the opening of the at least one plug-type cylindrical body preventing removal of the at least one plug-type cylindrical body from the secondary loop.

28. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body, configured to be partially inserted into a first opening on the at least one body shell element, whereinthe at least one plug-type cylindrical body comprises locking mechanism configured to prevent the at least one plug-type cylindrical body 3 from disengaging from the first opening,the locking comprises a secondary body connected to the at least one plug-type cylindrical body by a material bridge, andthe secondary body is configured to deform from a first position in which the secondary body is capable of being inserted into a second opening on the at least one body shell element to a locking position in the second opening.

29. The fixing apparatus according to claim 28, wherein a pivoting element is inserted into the secondary body.

30. The fixing apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the pivoting element is configured to deform the secondary body.

31. The fixing apparatus according to claim 29, wherein a grip tab is disposed on the pivoting element.

32. The fixing apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the second opening is oval.

33. A fixing apparatus for fixing at least two radial arms of a drive mechanism of a wiper device to at least one body shell element configured to be disposed vertically on a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one plug-type cylindrical body configured to be partially inserted into a secondary loop of a first opening on the at least one body shell element, anda locking mechanism, wherein wherein the locking mechanism is insertable in a main loop of the first opening on the at least one body shell element once the at least one plug-type cylindrical body is inserted into the secondary loop.

34. The fixing apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a longitudinal element comprising, on each of its ends, a curved transversal element.