How do windshield wipers work on a car?
Windshield wipers come standard in most modern cars as a way to keep the windshield clear of water and debris. They have evolved from a very simple, manually-operated squeegee system to a high-tech electronic component.HistoryThe first known patent for a windshield wiper appeared in 1903, but it was not used because cars did not yet have closed cabins. This meant people were unlikely to drive in the rain. Once the closed cabin car became popular, car manufacturers began introducing manual wipers operated by a lever. In 1921, Fred and Willaim Folberth invented an automatic wiper.FunctionThe primary function of windshield wipers is to remove rain from the windshield. With the innovation of wiper fluid, they may also be used to clean the windshield.PartsThere are three key parts to the wiper: the motor, located under the hood and operated by battery; the arms, made of metal or plastic; and, the blades, made of rubber. The blades are what actually push the water off the windshield, but the
