Texture design of microgrooves to improve the tribological properties of wiper blades

Improving the tribological properties of windscreen wipers to achieve high visibility and low wiping noise is crucial for safe and comfort driving on rainy days. This study systematically investigated the effects of micro -grooves on the tribological properties of rubber, similar to that used in wiper blades, sliding against glass in the presence of water. It was found that grooves with an orientation angle of 0 degrees were highly beneficial for the wiping process of rubber blades. At low velocities, the grooves reduced the frictional resistance and restrained the propagation of Schallamach waves; however, at high velocities, frictional resistance existed, restraining forced wetting. These findings have significant implications for the development of high-performance windscreen wipers.