Roof device, inflatable roof and vehicle

Abstract

The invention discloses a car roof device, which is applied to an inflatable car roof and comprises a cross beam assembly, a plurality of connecting pieces and a plurality of connecting pieces, the flexible part is fixedly connected with the at least two cross beams, and an included angle is formed between the extension direction of the flexible part and the extension direction of the cross beams; the flexible member is adapted to support an airbag of an inflatable roof. By arranging the flexible pieces fixedly connected with the at least two cross beams, the space between the two cross beams can be filled up, supporting is provided for the air bag, then the deformation direction of the air bag of the inflatable car roof can be limited, the air bag is prevented from expanding and deforming towards the interior of the car, the attractiveness of the soft-top open tent is improved, and the use experience of a user is conveniently improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a roof device, an inflatable roof and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Soft-top convertibles are increasingly popular in convertible vehicles due to their significant advantages, such as light weight and low cost. However, they are prone to collapse when deployed. Existing technologies typically use inflatable air cushions to provide support for soft-top convertibles. However, since the air cushions expand into the vehicle after inflation, their support and aesthetics are limited. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a roof device that, by providing a flexible member fixedly connected to at least two of the crossbeams, prevents the inflatable roof airbag from expanding and deforming toward the interior of the vehicle, thereby improving the aesthetics of the soft-top convertible and enhancing the user experience.

[0004] The present application also proposes an inflatable roof having the roof device.

[0005] The present application also provides a vehicle having the inflatable roof.

[0006] A roof device according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present application, applied to an inflatable roof, includes:

[0007] a crossbeam assembly, the crossbeam assembly comprising a plurality of crossbeams;

[0008] A flexible member is fixedly connected to at least two of the cross beams, and an extending direction of the flexible member forms an angle with an extending direction of the cross beam; the flexible member is suitable for supporting the airbag.

[0009] According to the embodiment of the present application, the roof device is provided with a flexible part fixedly connected to at least two cross beams, and the extension direction of the flexible part forms an angle with the extension direction of the cross beam, so that the flexible part can fill the space between the two cross beams and provide support for the airbag, thereby limiting the deformation direction of the airbag of the inflatable roof, preventing the airbag from expanding and deforming toward the interior of the vehicle, thereby improving the aesthetics of the soft top convertible and facilitating improving the user experience.

[0010] In addition, the driving structure of the sunshade according to the above embodiment of the present application may also have the following additional technical features:

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present application, the flexible member is fixedly connected to at least two of the beams, including: the flexible member is fixedly connected to at least two adjacent beams.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present application, the flexible member is connected to all the beams of the beam assembly.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present application, there are multiple flexible members, and the multiple flexible members are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the beam.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present application, the plurality of flexible members are evenly distributed along the extension direction of the beam.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present application, the elastic modulus of the flexible member is greater than or equal to 230 MPa.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present application, a side of the flexible member facing the crossbeam assembly is adapted to abut against at least a portion of a lower bottom surface of the airbag.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present application, the roof device further includes: a first tarpaulin, which is arranged on a side of the flexible member facing away from the crossbeam assembly.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present application, in the extension direction of the crossbeam, the size of the first tarpaulin is greater than or equal to the length of the crossbeam; in the extension direction of the flexible member, the size of the first tarpaulin is greater than or equal to the length of the flexible member.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present application, the elastic modulus of the flexible member is greater than that of the first tarpaulin.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present application, the roof device further includes a connecting rod assembly, wherein the connecting rod assembly is adapted to drive the cross beam assembly to switch between an extended state and a stowed state.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present application, the flexible member is fixedly connected to the crossbeam via at least two connecting portions; when the crossbeam assembly is in an expanded state, the flexible member between adjacent connecting portions is tensioned.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present application, an inflatable roof is provided, comprising: a roof device according to any one of the first aspects; and an airbag assembly, wherein the airbag assembly comprises an airbag, and the flexible member is used to support the airbag.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present application, the inflatable roof includes: a first tarpaulin and a second tarpaulin, wherein the first tarpaulin and the second tarpaulin are arranged on opposite sides of the crossbeam assembly.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the present application, the airbag is connected to the flexible member and / or the airbag is connected to the second tarpaulin.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present application, the airbag is snap-connected with the flexible member, the flexible member has a first limiting structure, and the airbag is provided with a second limiting structure that matches the first limiting structure.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the present application, one of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure is a limiting hole, and the other is a limiting pin.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the present application, the inflatable roof further includes: a buckle; the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure are limiting holes, and the buckle passes through the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present application, the second limiting structure is provided at both ends of the airbag in the extension direction of the flexible member.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the present application, the airbag and the second tarpaulin are connected by at least one of sewing, gluing, Velcro gluing, and riveting.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the present application, a deformation limiting structure is provided inside the airbag, and the deformation limiting structure connects two inner surfaces of the airbag along the thickness direction of the airbag.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the present application, the inflatable roof also includes a front fixing plate and a rear window assembly, one end of the airbag assembly along the extension direction of the flexible part is connected to the front fixing plate, and / or the other end of the airbag assembly along the extension direction of the flexible part is connected to the rear window assembly.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the present application, there is at least one airbag between two adjacent crossbeams. When the airbag is in a stable pressure state, the airbag between the two adjacent crossbeams abuts against the crossbeams.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the present application, an air pump and a control valve are further included, and the airbag includes an air inlet and an air outlet, and the air inlet and the air outlet are respectively connected to the air pump through the control valve.

[0034] According to a third aspect of the present application, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes the roof assembly according to the first aspect of the present application or the inflatable roof according to the second aspect of the present application.

[0035] Additional aspects and advantages of the present application will be given in part in the description below, and in part will become obvious from the description below, or will be learned through practice of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present application will become apparent and easily understood from the description of the embodiments in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the roof device structure according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of an inflatable roof structure according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the flexible member structure according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the airbag assembly and the flexible member according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional structure diagram of an inflatable roof according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the airbag structure according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the connection structure between the airbag and the flexible member according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the internal limiting structure of the airbag according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the connection between the air pump and the control valve according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of an inflatable roof according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of an inflatable roof structure according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the connection structure between the airbag and the second tarpaulin according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the vehicle structure according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0050] Reference numerals: 100, vehicle; 200, inflatable roof; 1, airbag assembly; 2, crossbeam assembly; 21, crossbeam;

[0051] 3. Connecting rod assembly; 4. Second tarpaulin; 5. Front fixing plate; 6. Rear window;

[0052] 7. Airbag; 7a. Extension portion; 7b. Airbag safety valve; 71. First limiting structure;

[0053] 8. Flexible member; 8a. First limiting structure; 8b. Connecting portion;

[0054] 9. Buckle; 10. Air pump; 11. Control valve; 11a. Inflation control valve; 11b. Exhaust control valve; 11c. Safety valve; 12. Air pump connecting pipe; 13. Airbag connecting pipe; 14. First tarpaulin; 15. Deformation limiting structure; 16. Connecting structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The following describes in detail embodiments of the present application. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present application and are not to be construed as limiting the present application.

[0056] A roof assembly, an inflatable roof, and a vehicle according to embodiments of the present application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] The first embodiment of the present application provides a roof device, such as Figure 1 As shown, the roof device includes: a crossbeam assembly 2 comprising a plurality of crossbeams 21; a flexible member 8 fixedly connected to at least two crossbeams 21, with the flexible member 8 extending in a direction that forms an angle with the crossbeams; and the flexible member 8 being adapted to support the airbag 7. Specifically, in the above embodiment, the crossbeam assembly 2 includes a plurality of crossbeams 21. These crossbeams 21 are arranged in intervals along the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, forming the skeletal structure of the roof. The number of crossbeams 21 can be designed based on the size of the roof and the support requirements, typically being 4-8. Preferably, the crossbeams 21 are bow-shaped members.

[0058] The flexible member 8 can be folded and stored. The flexible member 8 can be fixedly connected to the crossbeam 21 by riveting, winding, gluing, etc., which are not limited here. The extension direction of the flexible member refers to the method from one end of the flexible member to the other end. Figure 3 As shown, flexible member 8 is fixedly connected to crossbeam 21 via connecting portion 8b. Flexible member 8 is fixedly connected to at least two crossbeams 21, and its extension direction forms an angle (e.g., 30°-90°) with the crossbeam's extension direction. Flexible member 8 fills the space between crossbeams 21 and supports airbag 7, preventing it from expanding, deforming, or collapsing into the vehicle when inflated. Furthermore, the multi-point connection with crossbeams 21 forms a mesh support structure, significantly enhancing the deformation control capability of airbag 7.

[0059] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2As shown, the flexible member 8 is fixedly connected to at least two crossbeams 21, including: the flexible member 8 is fixedly connected to at least two adjacent crossbeams 21. This solution forms a local support unit by fixing the flexible member 8 to adjacent crossbeams 21 (e.g., adjacent crossbeams separated by 10-20 cm), effectively filling the gaps between the crossbeams 21, providing a more continuous support surface for the airbag 7 that approximates the curvature of the roof, and improving the overall aesthetics.

[0060] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 As shown, the flexible member 8 is connected to all crossbeams 21 of the crossbeam assembly 2. This solution forms a support network throughout the entire crossbeam assembly 2 by connecting the flexible member 8 to all crossbeams 21. This structure provides the widest range of support, ensuring that the airbag assembly 1 is evenly supported across the entire roof area.

[0061] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 As shown, multiple flexible members 8 are spaced apart along the crossbeam extension direction (F2). This arrangement, by spacing the flexible members 8 along the crossbeam extension direction (F2) (e.g., at intervals of 5-15 cm), allows for more uniform support from the flexible members 8. This distribution also helps reduce the width of individual flexible members 8 and facilitates folding of the roof when it is stowed.

[0062] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 As shown, multiple flexible members 8 are evenly distributed along the crossbeam extension direction F2. This solution ensures that the supporting force is evenly transmitted to all areas of the airbag 7 through evenly distributed flexible members (e.g., with a spacing of 10 cm). This even distribution avoids localized stress concentration on the airbag 7 caused by uneven support, reduces the risk of material fatigue, and improves the overall flatness and aesthetics of the roof.

[0063] In some embodiments, the elastic modulus of the flexible member 8 is greater than or equal to 230 MPa. Selecting a flexible member material with an elastic modulus ≥ 230 MPa (such as high-strength polyester fiber or carbon fiber composite material) ensures that the flexible member maintains rigid support properties when inflated while maintaining sufficient flexibility to accommodate the roof's folding motion. This elastic modulus range has been experimentally verified to meet support requirements while avoiding the risk of brittle fracture.

[0064] In some embodiments, see Figure 5 As shown, the side of the flexible member 8 facing the crossbeam assembly 2 is adapted to abut at least a portion of the lower surface of the airbag 7. This solution forms a physical stop surface when the flexible member 8 directly abuts the lower surface of the airbag 7. When the airbag 7 is inflated or in a stable pressure state, the flexible member 8 applies reverse pressure through the abutment surface, preventing the airbag 7 from expanding downward. At the same time, the rigidity of the contact surface limits deformation of the airbag 7 into the vehicle, maintaining the smooth appearance of the roof.

[0065] In some embodiments, see Figure 5 As shown, the roof assembly also includes a first tarpaulin 14, which is positioned on the side of the flexible member 8 facing away from the crossbar assembly 2. Specifically, by covering the side of the flexible member 8 facing away from the crossbar 21, the first tarpaulin 14 forms an insulating layer between the airbag 7 and the vehicle interior. This design, through the synergistic effect of the flexible member 8 and the first tarpaulin 14, ensures effective support for the airbag 7 while preventing direct exposure to the vehicle interior, thereby improving the roof's sealing and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) performance.

[0066] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the first tarpaulin 14 are greater than or equal to the length of the crossbar in the direction of crossbar extension; and greater than or equal to the length of the flexible member 8 in the direction of flexible member extension. For example, the first tarpaulin 14 covers 105% of the crossbar length in the crossbar extension direction (F2), 110% of the flexible member length in the flexible member extension direction (F1), and so on. This sizing ensures that the first tarpaulin 14 completely covers the flexible member 8 and crossbar assembly 2, providing a complete interior effect.

[0067] In some embodiments, the elastic modulus of the flexible member 8 is greater than that of the first tarpaulin 14. This solution ensures that the flexible member 8 takes priority in supporting the tarpaulin when inflated, by significantly increasing the elastic modulus of the flexible member 8 (e.g., 300 MPa) compared to the first tarpaulin 14 (e.g., 100 MPa). This design leverages material property differences to achieve functional division of labor, with the flexible member 8 providing rigid support and the first tarpaulin 14 providing sealing and decorative features, improving overall structural efficiency.

[0068] The embodiment of the present application also provides a roof device, such as Figure 2 As shown, the roof device includes a linkage assembly 3 adapted to drive the crossbeam assembly 2 between an extended and stowed state. In some embodiments, this solution utilizes a four-bar linkage or gear-linked structure within the linkage assembly 3 to achieve automatic deployment / stowage of the crossbeam assembly. This design integrates the support function of the flexible member 8 with the kinematic mechanism of the crossbeam 21, ensuring that the flexible member automatically adjusts to the stowed position when the roof is retracted, avoiding interference, while also quickly resuming the support state when deployed.

[0069] In some embodiments, the flexible member 8 is fixedly connected to the crossbeam 21 through at least two connecting portions 8b; when the crossbeam assembly is in the expanded state, the flexible member 8 between adjacent connecting portions 8b is tensioned. This solution fixes the flexible member to the crossbeam through at least two connecting portions (such as riveted points spaced 15 cm apart), so that the flexible member 8 moves with the crossbeam 21. When the crossbeam assembly 2 is expanded, the flexible member 8 is automatically tensioned due to the increase in the spacing between the connecting portions 8b. When the crossbeam assembly 2 is in the storage position, the flexible member 8 is automatically folded and stored. This design does not require an additional tensioning mechanism, and the pre-tensioning of the flexible member 8 is directly achieved through the movement of the crossbeam assembly 2, ensuring that the airbag 7 has initial support force before inflation is completed.

[0070] The second embodiment of the present application provides an inflatable roof, such as Figure 2 As shown, the inflatable roof 200 includes the roof device and the airbag assembly 1 according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the present application. The airbag assembly 1 includes an airbag 7, and a flexible member 8 is used to support the airbag 7. Specifically, the roof device is applied to the inflatable roof. The flexible member 8 provides bottom support for the airbag 7, while the crossbeam 21 provides support for the flexible member 8. Through the coordinated support of the flexible member 8 and the crossbeam 21, the airbag 7 forms a stable geometric shape (such as a rectangle or arc) after inflation, preventing the airbag 7 from expanding into the vehicle.

[0071] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 As shown, the airbag 7 is located above the flexible member 8. When the airbag 7 is inflated, the flexible member 8 provides bottom support for the airbag 7, while the crossbeam 21 provides lateral support for the flexible member 8. The two work together to ensure that the airbag 7 maintains an ideal shape and position, preventing the airbag 7 from deforming or collapsing when inflated.

[0072] In some embodiments, see Figure 5 、 Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, the inflatable roof comprises a first tarpaulin 14 and a second tarpaulin 4, which are positioned on opposite sides of the crossbeam assembly 2. This dual-layer tarpaulin design (i.e., an inner first tarpaulin and an outer second tarpaulin) achieves dual isolation between the airbag and the vehicle cabin and the external environment. Specifically, the first tarpaulin 14, located on the side of the flexible member 8 facing away from the crossbeam assembly 2, serves as the interior layer. The second tarpaulin 4, located above the airbag 7 and made of a foldable, waterproof and windproof material, serves as the outer layer of the roof. This double-layer tarpaulin design not only enhances the roof's aesthetics but also provides enhanced thermal and sound insulation.

[0073] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is connected to the flexible member 8 and / or the airbag 7 is connected to the second tarpaulin 4. This solution connects the airbag to the flexible member or the second tarpaulin through sewing, snapping, or gluing, forming a fixed support point. This multi-point connection design enhances the positioning accuracy of the airbag, prevents displacement during inflation, and reduces friction between the airbag and the tarpaulin.

[0074] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is connected to the flexible member 8. Specifically, the airbag 7 can be connected to the flexible member 8 by sewing, snapping, or gluing, etc., which are not limited here. This design enhances the positioning accuracy of the airbag 7 through multi-point connection, prevents displacement of the airbag 7 during inflation, and reduces friction loss between the airbag 7 and the flexible member 8.

[0075] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is connected to the second tarpaulin 4. Specifically, the airbag 7 can be connected to the second tarpaulin 4 by sewing, snapping, or gluing, forming a fixed support point. This multi-point connection design enhances the positioning accuracy of the airbag 7, prevents displacement of the airbag 7 during inflation, and reduces friction loss between the airbag 7 and the tarpaulin.

[0076] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is connected to both the flexible member 8 and the second tarpaulin 4. This design enhances the positioning accuracy of the airbag 7 through multi-point connection, ensuring that the airbag 7 does not deviate.

[0077] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is snap-fitted to the flexible member 8. The flexible member 8 has a first retaining structure 8a, and the airbag is provided with a second retaining structure 71 that matches the first retaining structure. This solution achieves a quick connection between the airbag and the flexible member through a snap-fit ​​structure (such as a pin and a socket). This design allows the airbag to be quickly positioned before inflation, while the retaining structure prevents the airbag from rotating or shifting during inflation, improving assembly efficiency and reliability.

[0078] In some embodiments, one of the first and second limiting structures 8a, 71, is a limiting hole, and the other is a limiting pin. This solution utilizes a pin-and-hole limiting structure (e.g., a 5 mm diameter metal pin and a limiting hole in the flexible member) to withstand lateral forces during inflation. This design achieves high-precision positioning through a simple mechanical structure while facilitating disassembly and maintenance.

[0079] In some embodiments, see Figure 3-7 As shown, the inflatable roof also includes a buckle 9; the first limiting structure 8a and the second limiting structure 71 are limiting holes, and the buckle 9 penetrates the first limiting structure 8a and the second limiting structure 71. This solution uses a buckle (such as a 3mm diameter elastic buckle) to penetrate the limiting hole to secure the airbag to the flexible component. After penetration, the buckle provides additional lateral locking force, preventing the limiting hole from loosening due to vibration, and improving long-term stability.

[0080] In some embodiments, see Figure 6 As shown, the airbag 7 is provided with a second limiting structure 71 at both ends of the flexible member in the extension direction. This solution, by providing second limiting structures 71 at both ends of the airbag 7 (e.g., limiting holes spaced 10 cm apart), creates a bidirectional limiting constraint. This dual-end limiting design prevents the airbag 7 from sliding in the extension direction of the flexible member 8, making it particularly suitable for long-span airbag structures and ensuring even distribution of support force.

[0081] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 has an extension portion 7a at both ends in the extension direction of the flexible part, and the second limiting structure 71 is arranged on the extension portion 7a. The extension portion 7a can not only ensure the airtightness of the airbag, but also provide an additional fixing point (such as the second limiting structure 71) to facilitate the installation of the airbag on other structures.

[0082] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 and the second tarpaulin 4 are connected by at least one of sewing, gluing, hook-and-loop fastening, and riveting. Specifically, the airbag 7 and the second tarpaulin 4 can be permanently attached by sewing (e.g., double-thread overlock sewing), gluing (e.g., hot melt adhesive), or riveting (e.g., 4 mm diameter metal rivets). Alternatively, the airbag 7 and the second tarpaulin 4 can be removably attached by hook-and-loop fastening. This design also allows for multiple connection methods to adapt to different material properties and ensure connection strength.

[0083] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is connected to the second tarpaulin 4 via a connecting structure 16. Figure 10 、 Figure 12 As shown, the connection structure 16 can be a connection structure using at least one of sewing, gluing, Velcro, and riveting. The connection structure 16 can be provided on the extension portion 7a or as a separate structure. The connection structure 16 can ensure the connection strength between the airbag 7 and the second tarpaulin 4.

[0084] In some embodiments, see Figure 8 As shown, the airbag 7 is internally provided with a deformation-limiting structure 15, which connects the two inner surfaces of the airbag 7 along the thickness direction F3. Specifically, by providing a deformation-limiting structure 15 connecting the two inner surfaces of the airbag 7 (e.g., a 5 cm longitudinal limiter), this solution can limit excessive expansion of the airbag in the thickness direction. By providing the internal deformation-limiting structure 15, this design prevents irregular expansion or localized deformation of the airbag 7 after inflation, maintaining the overall shape of the airbag 7 stable.

[0085] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 、 Figure 11As shown, the inflatable roof also includes a front fixing plate 5 and a rear window assembly 6. One end of the airbag assembly 1 along the extension direction F1 of the flexible member 8 is connected to the front fixing plate 5. By connecting the airbag assembly 1 to the front fixing plate 5, the airbag assembly 1 can be ensured to fill the gap between the crossbeam assembly 2 and the front fixing plate 5, further preventing the roof contour from collapsing.

[0086] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 、 Figure 11 As shown, the inflatable roof also includes a front fixing plate 5 and a rear window assembly 6. The other end of the airbag assembly 1 along the extension direction F1 of the flexible member 8 is connected to the rear window assembly 6. By connecting the airbag assembly to the rear window assembly, this solution ensures that the airbag assembly 1 fills the gap between the crossbeam assembly 2 and the rear window assembly 6, further preventing the roof contour from collapsing.

[0087] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 、 Figure 11 As shown, the inflatable roof also includes a front fixing plate 5 and a rear window assembly 6. One end of the airbag assembly 1, along the extension direction F1 of the flexible member 8, is connected to the front fixing plate 5, while the other end of the airbag assembly 1, along the extension direction F1 of the flexible member 8, is connected to the rear window assembly 6. Because the airbag assembly 1 is directly fastened to the front fixing plate 5 and the rear window assembly 6, when the convertible is in the deployed state, the airbag assembly 1 can be stretched forward and backward to achieve self-support. This front-to-back fixed design prevents the airbag 7 from collapsing into the vehicle.

[0088] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 , one end of the flexible member 8 is connected to the front fixing plate 5. The connection of the flexible member 8 to the front fixing plate 5 can further enhance the overall supporting performance of the inflatable roof.

[0089] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 , the other end of the flexible member 8 is connected to the rear window assembly 6. The connection of the flexible member 8 to the rear window assembly 6 can further enhance the overall supporting performance of the inflatable roof.

[0090] In some embodiments, see Figure 1-2 One end of the flexible member 8 is connected to the front fixing plate 5, and the other end of the flexible member 8 is connected to the rear window assembly 6. By connecting the two ends of the flexible member 8 to the front fixing plate 5 and the rear window assembly 6 respectively, the overall support performance of the inflatable roof can be further enhanced, so that the flexible member can provide all-round support for the roof airbag assembly 1.

[0091] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 、 Figure 5 and Figure 10At least one airbag 7 is positioned between two adjacent crossbeams 21. When the airbag 7 is in the pressure-stabilizing state, the airbag 7 between the two adjacent crossbeams 21 abuts the crossbeam 21. Specifically, the airbag 7 has four operating states: inflated, deflated, pressure-stabilized, and deflated. This solution places one or more airbags 7 between adjacent crossbeams. When in the pressure-stabilizing state, the airbags 7 press against the crossbeams through their own expansion force. This design creates a continuous roof support surface through close contact between the airbags 7 and the crossbeams 21, improving the overall flatness and aesthetics of the roof.

[0092] In some embodiments, the projection of the airbag 7 on the horizontal plane in the stable pressure state is a rectangle. Specifically, the rectangular design enables the airbag to cover the area between the beams to the maximum extent, improve support efficiency, and reduce material waste.

[0093] In some embodiments, see Figure 4 、 Figure 9 As shown, the inflatable roof also includes an air pump 10 and a control valve 11. The airbag 7 includes an air inlet and an air outlet, each of which is connected to the air pump 10 through the control valve 11. The air pump 10 provides the inflation power, and the control valve 11 adjusts the airflow direction and air pressure to ensure that the airbag 7 can be inflated or deflated as needed.

[0094] In some embodiments, the control valve 11 includes an inflation control valve 11a and an exhaust control valve 11b. The inflation control valve 11a is connected to the air inlet, and the exhaust control valve 11b is connected to the air outlet. This separate design makes the airbag inflation and deflation process more controllable, allowing the airbag's inflation speed and air pressure level to be adjusted according to different usage scenarios.

[0095] When the roof needs to be deployed, the air pump starts, pumping gas into the airbag 7 through the inflation control valve 11a. The airbag 7 inflates, supporting the roof fabric and forming a smooth and beautiful roof shape. When the roof needs to be stowed, the exhaust control valve 11b opens, deflates the airbag 7, and the entire roof assembly can be compactly folded and stored.

[0096] In some embodiments, the control valve 11 further includes a safety valve 11c. The inclusion of the safety valve 11c provides additional safety for the entire airbag system. When the air pressure within the airbag 7 exceeds a preset safety threshold, the safety valve 11c automatically opens, releasing excess gas and preventing rupture or damage to the airbag due to excessive pressure. This design not only extends the airbag's service life but also ensures the safety of the vehicle and passengers, mitigating potential risks associated with airbag failure.

[0097] In some embodiments, the airbag 7 is also equipped with an airbag safety valve 7b. This valve acts as an independent safety device within the airbag, working in conjunction with the safety valve 11c in the control valve 11 to further enhance system safety. When the air pressure within the airbag 7 rises abnormally, the valve 7b responds quickly, releasing some gas and effectively reducing the pressure. This dual safety mechanism ensures stable operation under a variety of complex operating conditions, providing a solid guarantee for the normal use of the vehicle.

[0098] The third embodiment of the present application further provides a vehicle, Figure 13 As shown, the vehicle includes: a roof device according to the first aspect of this application or an inflatable roof according to the second aspect of this application. In some embodiments, by integrating the aforementioned roof device or inflatable roof into the vehicle, the flexible member and the airbag provide coordinated support, significantly improving the soft-top convertible's aesthetics and support performance. This design, while ensuring lightweight, achieves improved NVH performance and enhanced driving safety through structural innovation.

[0099] Other structures and operations of the vehicle according to the embodiment of the present application are known to ordinary technicians in this field and will not be described in detail here.

[0100] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present application. In addition, features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the present application, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means two or more. In the description of the present application, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact through another feature between them.

[0101] In the description of this application, a first feature “on”, “above” and “above” a second feature includes the first feature being directly above and obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is horizontally higher than the second feature.

[0102] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0103] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0104] Although the embodiments of the present application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and intent of the present application, and that the scope of the present application is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A roof device, applied to an inflatable roof (200), wherein the inflatable roof (200) comprises an airbag (7), characterized in that: include: A crossbeam assembly (2), the crossbeam assembly (2) comprising a plurality of crossbeams (21); A flexible member (8) is fixedly connected to at least two of the cross beams (21), and an extension direction (F1) of the flexible member and an extension direction (F2) of the cross beam form an angle; the flexible member (8) is suitable for supporting the airbag (7).

2. The roof device according to claim 1, wherein: The flexible member (8) is fixedly connected to at least two of the cross beams (21) including: the flexible member (8) is fixedly connected to at least two adjacent cross beams (21).

3. The roof device according to claim 1, wherein: The flexible member (8) is connected to all the crossbeams (21) of the crossbeam assembly (2).

4. The roof device according to claim 1, wherein: There are a plurality of flexible members (8), and the plurality of flexible members (8) are arranged at intervals along the extending direction (F2) of the crossbeam.

5. The roof device according to claim 4, characterized in that The plurality of flexible members (8) are evenly distributed along the extending direction (F2) of the crossbeam.

6. The roof device according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic modulus of the flexible member (8) is greater than or equal to 230 MPa.

7. The roof device according to claim 1, wherein: The side of the flexible member (8) facing the crossbeam assembly (2) is suitable for abutting against at least a portion of the lower bottom surface of the airbag (7).

8. The roof device according to claim 7, characterized in that Also includes: A first tarpaulin (14) is provided on a side of the flexible member (8) facing away from the crossbeam assembly (2).

9. The roof device according to claim 8, characterized in that In the direction in which the crossbeam extends, the size of the first tarpaulin (14) is greater than or equal to the length of the crossbeam; in the direction in which the flexible member (8) extends, the size of the first tarpaulin (14) is greater than or equal to the length of the flexible member (8).

10. The roof device according to claim 8, wherein: The elastic modulus of the flexible member (8) is greater than that of the first tarpaulin (14).

11. The roof device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: It also includes a connecting rod assembly (3), which is suitable for driving the crossbeam assembly (2) to switch between an expanded state and a stored state.

12. The roof device according to claim 11, wherein: The flexible member (8) is fixedly connected to the crossbeam (21) via at least two connecting portions (8b); when the crossbeam assembly is in an unfolded state, the flexible member (8) between adjacent connecting portions (8b) is tensioned.

13. An inflatable roof (200), characterized in that: include: The roof device according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and, An airbag assembly (1) comprises an airbag (7), and the flexible member (8) is used to support the airbag (7).

14. The inflatable roof according to claim 13, characterized in that include: A first tarpaulin (14) and a second tarpaulin (4), wherein the first tarpaulin (14) and the second tarpaulin (4) are arranged on opposite sides of the crossbeam assembly (2).

15. The inflatable roof according to claim 14, characterized in that The airbag (7) is connected to the flexible member (8) and / or the airbag (7) is connected to the second tarpaulin (4).

16. The inflatable roof according to claim 15, characterized in that The airbag (7) is snap-connected with the flexible member (8); the flexible member (8) has a first limiting structure (8a); and the airbag is provided with a second limiting structure (71) matched with the first limiting structure.

17. The inflatable roof according to claim 16, characterized in that One of the first limiting structure (8a) and the second limiting structure (71) is a limiting hole, and the other is a limiting latch.

18. The inflatable roof according to claim 16, wherein: Also includes: Buckle (9); the first limiting structure (8a) and the second limiting structure (71) are limiting holes, and the buckle (9) passes through the first limiting structure (8a) and the second limiting structure (71).

19. The inflatable roof according to claim 16, wherein: The airbag (7) is provided with the second limiting structure (71) at both ends in the extension direction of the flexible member.

20. The inflatable roof according to claim 15, wherein: The airbag (7) and the second tarpaulin (4) are connected by at least one of sewing, gluing, Velcro gluing, and riveting.

21. The inflatable roof according to claim 13, wherein: A deformation limiting structure (15) is provided inside the airbag (4), and the deformation limiting structure (15) connects the two inner surfaces of the airbag (7) along the airbag thickness direction (F3).

22. The inflatable roof according to claim 13, wherein: It also includes a front fixing plate (5) and a rear window assembly (6), wherein one end of the airbag assembly (1) along the extension direction (F1) of the flexible member (8) is connected to the front fixing plate (5), and / or the other end of the airbag assembly (1) along the extension direction (F1) of the flexible member (8) is connected to the rear window assembly (6).

23. The inflatable roof according to any one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that There is at least one airbag (7) between two adjacent crossbeams (21). When the airbag (7) is in a stable pressure state, the airbag (7) between the two adjacent crossbeams (21) abuts against the crossbeam.

24. The inflatable roof according to any one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that It also includes an air pump (10) and a control valve (11), and the air bag (7) includes an air inlet and an air outlet, and the air inlet and the air outlet are respectively connected to the air pump (10) through the control valve (11).

25. A vehicle, characterized in that: include: A roof device according to any one of claims 1-12 or an inflatable roof (200) according to any one of claims 13-24.

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