OPERA project: Windshield wiper deicer
The Exchange regularly highlights projects completed under the LRRB’s Local Operational Research Assistance Program (Local OPERA). A condensed sample from the 2006 OPERA annual report is reprinted below. For a copy or the report, please visit www.mnltap.umn.edu/opera.
New! OPERA 2006 annual report online!
Local OPERA helps to develop innovations in the construction and maintenance operations of local government transportation organizations. Learn more about the program and apply for OPERA funding online at www.mnltap.umn.edu/opera, or contact Jim Grothaus, Minnesota LTAP director, 612-626-1077, mnltap@umn.edu.
Problem: During snow removal operations, snow and ice often accumulate near the bottom of snowplow windshields and on wiper blades, reducing wiper effectiveness. From time to time, drivers have to stop to manually remove the snow and ice. The vehicle body is often slippery, making the climb up to the windshield not only inconvenient but hazardous.
Solution: Mount air cylinders on the wiper arms using the vehicle air system. Install a button control in the cab. By pushing the button, the air cylinders retract the wiper arms about 6 inches from the windshield. When the button is released, the wiper arm quickly slaps back to the windshield, driven by both the wiper arm spring and the cylinder return spring. This quick slap often removes the accumulated snow and ice.
Procedure: Based on the design of the wiper arms on individual vehicles, mount an appropriate-sized air cylinder on each wiper arm. Install controls in the cab in a convenient, yet out-of-the-way, location. In cases where vehicles do not have an on-board air system, mount an air tank on the vehicle. Charging the air tank prior to plowing provides enough air for a typical plowing event.
Results: For vehicles with bolted-down wiper arms, the system works very well, with little maintenance. (It is necessary to add air-tool oil to the cylinders a couple times per year.) For vehicles with quick-release wiper arms, there have been some problems: Under heavy snow conditions, operating the device can strain the wiper motor, drive arm, locking device, and wiper arm splines. After the first use of these devices, vehicle operators requested them, and devices were installed on additional vehicles with success. Hutchinson’s fleet of snow equipment is largely outfittted with these devices, and operators now take them for granted as part of their equipment.
Approximate Cost: $350–$450 per truck ($1,800 approved for project)
Implementation: The technology has been adopted by the cities of Hutchinson and Pipestone; McLeod County; Mn/DOT branches in Hutchinson, North Branch, and Pipestone; and several other agencies.
Project leader: Brad Thielsen, plant equipment mechanic, City of Hutchinson