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Automobiles have been equipped with windshield wipers since the early 1900s. While we rarely think about them, they play a key role in maintaining our visibility. By keeping rain, dirt, and debris cleared away, we can see the road ahead better and avoid potential accidents.

In the past, these wiping systems have required drivers to manually engage them. As a result, many motorists neglect to turn them on and drive with limited visibility. That creates a safety issue. Automakers have largely solved this problem by developing “rain-sensing wipers” (RSWs). Instead of requiring manual intervention, they “sense” objects that are impacting the driver’s ability to see through his or her windshield.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at how this technology works. I’ll explain the benefits an RSW system offers and help you decide whether you need it.

A Peek Behind The Technology

The challenge for automakers was to design a system that could identify visibility issues caused by a wide range of objects on a car’s windshield. For example, it should recognize drops of water (i.e. rain), leaves, dirt, snow, and similar obstructions. The solution was to use a sensor to record the amount of light reflected off the glass.

The sensor emits a small, infrared light that is focused upon a small portion of the windshield on the driver’s side. It also monitors the level of light reflected back to it. If there are no obstructions on the glass, most of the light is reflected back. If raindrops are present, the amount of reflected light declines. Leaves, dirt, and debris further reduce the reflected light.

At some point, the reduction in light causes the RSW to engage, clearing away obstructions. The program can also modify the speed and frequency of the wipers to compensate for a recurring obstruction (for example, heavy rain).

The Main Advantage Of RSWs

If rain or snow are constant, a conventional wiping system (similar to that which is installed in most cars today) is sufficient. Once engaged, it continues to clear the windshield. However, there are times when rain, snow, and other debris are inconsistent. In such cases, the driver is forced to manually turn his or her wipers on and off in order to maintain visibility. This is the main problem that an RSW system solves.

As explained, the optical sensor and infrared beam that is focused on the glass can continually monitor and record the amount of light reflected back to it. Intermittent obstructions, such as a sudden and short rainfall or a splash of water from another car driving over a puddle, will programmatically trigger the system. That ensures the windshield is kept clear without requiring manual intervention from the driver.

To the question of whether you need rain-sensing wipers, consider them in the context of their price and value. First, they’re relatively inexpensive as an add-on option or an aftermarket purchase. Second, a large percentage of collisions result – at least, in part – from limited visibility. Given those two dynamics, an investment in rain-sensing wipers makes sense.

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