Windshield wiper apparatus and methods

Abstract

Windshield wiper apparatus and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the instant invention include forming a new edge on a worn wiper blade. The new edge increases the effectiveness of the wiper blade and thus extends the useful life of the wiper blade. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention can be employed to form the new edge in accordance with one of various methods including trimming a worn edge from the wiper blade as well as molding a new edge onto the worn wiper blade. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the instant invention, a windshield wiper assembly includes a wiper blade and a heating element supported on the windshield wiper assembly, wherein the heating element is configured to heat the wiper blade so as to keep the wiper blade substantially clear of ice, snow and the like during winter driving conditions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.