Deployable loop frame for open-air vehicles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides "Deployable Loop Frame for Open-Air Vehicles". A protection system for an open-air vehicle includes a left rail, a right rail, a front bracket, and a front panel. The rails are fixed relative to a frame forward of a cabin of the open-air vehicle in a longitudinal direction. The rails are elongated longitudinally and in parallel. The front bracket is engaged with the rails. The front bracket is slidable along the rails between a front position and a rear position. The front panel is rotatable about the front bracket at a lower edge of the front panel. The front panel is movable with the front bracket between an undeployed position when the front bracket is in the front position and a deployed position when the front bracket is in the rear position. The front panel in the undeployed position is more horizontal, and the front panel in the deployed position is inclined upward from the front bracket forward of the cabin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a protection system for open-air vehicles (such as Formula One cars or IndyCars). Background Technology

[0002] In motorsports, a halo is a protective system that includes a curved bar above the driver's head. Since 2018, the FIA ​​has required vehicles participating in Formula 1 and other racing series to have haloes. A similar design has been used in the IndyCar series, which includes a windshield. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A protective system provides structural protection around a professional driver in an open-air vehicle. The system includes a left rail, a right rail, a front bracket, and a front panel. The left rail is fixed relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle. The left rail is longitudinally positioned in front of the vehicle's cargo compartment. The left rail extends longitudinally relative to the open-air vehicle. The right rail is fixed relative to the frame. The right rail is longitudinally positioned in front of the cargo compartment. The right rail is parallel to the left rail. The front bracket engages with the left and right rails. The front bracket is slidable along the left and right rails between a front position and a rear position. The front position is in front of the rear position. The front panel extends from a lower edge to an upper edge. The front panel is rotatable at the lower edge about the front bracket (e.g., about a pin of the front bracket). The front panel is movable together with the front bracket between an undeployed position and an deployed position. When the front bracket is in the front position, the front panel is in the undeployed position. When the front bracket is in the rear position, the front panel is in the deployed position. The front panel in the deployed position is tilted upward from the front bracket in front of the carriage. The front panel in the undeployed position is more horizontal than when it is in the deployed position.

[0004] The protective system provides good visibility for the driver during normal operation and also helps to block road debris when deployed. The front panel in the deployed position can be concealed by the hood of the open-top vehicle, providing the driver with full-range forward visibility. The front panel (and possibly the hood) in the deployed position can block debris from the track that may have entered the compartment. The protective system may also include a deployable top assembly, as described herein. Deployment can be triggered by debris detection by environmental sensors in the open-top vehicle, by the driver inside the open-top vehicle discovering debris, or remotely triggered by track technicians or automated systems when debris is detected on the track where the open-top vehicle is competing. The compartment of the open-top vehicle may include a screen displaying image data from the vehicle's forward-facing camera to maintain driver visibility when the protective system is deployed. The protective system can be retracted to the deployed position by the driver (or remotely by the team), allowing the driver easier exit from the open-top vehicle.

[0005] A protective system for an open-air vehicle includes: a left rail fixed relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle, the left rail being longitudinally positioned in front of the vehicle body and extending longitudinally relative to the frame; a right rail fixed relative to the frame, the right rail being longitudinally positioned in front of the vehicle body and parallel to the left rail; a front bracket engaging with the left and right rails, the front bracket being slidable along the left and right rails between a front position and a rear position, the front position being in front of the rear position; and a front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge. The front panel is rotatable about the front bracket at the lower edge. The front panel is movable together with the front bracket between an undeployed position and an deployed position. When the front bracket is in the front position, the front panel is in the undeployed position. When the front bracket is in the rear position, the front panel is in the deployed position. The front panel in the deployed position is tilted upward from the front bracket in front of the carriage. The front panel in the undeployed position is more horizontal than when it is in the deployed position.

[0006] In one example, the protection system may further include a U-shaped member hinged to the front panel at its upper edge, the U-shaped member including a left arm extending rearward from the front panel along the left side of the vehicle body, and a right arm extending rearward from the front panel along the right side of the vehicle body. In another example, the protection system may further include a left link and a right link, the left link extending from a first end to a second end, the first end of the left link hinged to the end of the left arm of the U-shaped member, the second end of the left link being longitudinally hinged to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the vehicle body, and the right link extending from a first end to a second end, the first end of the right link hinged to the end of the right arm of the U-shaped member, and the second end of the right link being longitudinally hinged to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the vehicle body. In yet another example, the protection system may also include a magnetic extension fixed relative to one of the left or right links, the magnetic extension being positioned to magnetically attach to the frame of the open-air vehicle when the front panel is in the deployed position.

[0007] In one example, the protection system may further include an engine hood fixed to the front panel, and the engine hood may be positioned to conceal the front panel when the front panel is in the undeployed position.

[0008] In one example, the protection system may further include a cable extending from a first end to a second end, the first end being accessible in the vehicle compartment, the second end being attachable to the front bracket, and when the cable is taut, the second end of the cable may apply a force pulling the front bracket toward the front position.

[0009] In one example, the protection system may further include a top assembly mounted to the front panel, the top assembly being configured to extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the unextended position to the extended position. In another example, the top assembly may include a top bracket, the front panel may include a front panel track, and the top bracket may slide within the front panel track from a retracted position on the front panel to an extended position extending from the front panel. In yet another example, the top bracket may include an upper section and a lower section; the upper section and the lower section may be hingedly connected; when the top bracket is in the retracted position, the upper section and the lower section may be within the front panel track; and when the top bracket is in the extended position, the lower section may be within the front panel track, and the upper section may be spaced apart from the front panel. In yet another example, the protection system may also include a top bracket spring connecting the upper section and the lower section, and the top bracket spring may be arranged to bias the upper section downward from parallel to the front panel.

[0010] In yet another example, the top assembly may include a top plate, the top bracket may include a top bracket track, and the top plate may slide within the top bracket track from a retracted position on the top bracket to an extended position extending from the top bracket. In yet another example, the top plate may be a first top plate, and the top assembly may include a second top plate, the second top plate being slidable relative to the first top plate from a retracted position on the first top plate to an extended position extending from the first top plate.

[0011] In yet another example, the roof panel may be a first roof panel, and the top assembly may include a plurality of roof panels, the plurality of roof panels including the first roof panel, the roof panels extending from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, the roof panels in the retracted configuration being stackable, and in the extended configuration, the first roof panel extending from the top bracket, and each roof panel extending from the preceding roof panel. In a continuing example, the roof panels in the extended configuration may be attached to the frame of an open-air vehicle at the rear of the carriage.

[0012] In yet another example, the top assembly may include a cover plate rotatable relative to the top plate from an inward position on the top plate to an outward position extending from the top plate. The top assembly may include a cover plate spring connecting the top plate and the cover plate, and the cover plate spring may be arranged to bias the cover plate toward the outward position. In a continuing example, the cover plate may be a first cover plate, the first cover plate in the outward position extending to the left from the top plate. The top assembly may include a second cover plate rotatable relative to the top plate from an inward position on the top plate to an outward position extending from the top plate, and the second cover plate in the outward position extending to the right from the top plate.

[0013] In yet another example, the protection system may also include a cable extending from a first end to a second end, the first end being accessible in the vehicle compartment, the second end being attachable to the top bracket, and when the cable is taut, the second end of the cable may apply a force to pull the top bracket to the retracted position.

[0014] In another example, the protection system may further include an engine hood fixed to the front panel, and the engine hood may be positioned to conceal the front panel and the top assembly when the front panel is in the unfolded position and the top assembly is in the retracted configuration.

[0015] In one example, the protection system may further include a rotary actuator and a belt positioned to be driven by the rotary actuator, and the front bracket may be secured to the belt.

[0016] A protection system for an open-air vehicle includes: a front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge, the front panel being movable relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle between a de-extended position and an extended position, the front panel in the extended position being tilted upward from the lower edge in front of the passenger compartment of the open-air vehicle, the front panel in the de-extended position being more horizontal than when in the extended position; and a top assembly mounted to the front panel, the top assembly being configured to extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the de-extended position to the extended position. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1A It is a perspective view of an exemplary open-air vehicle having an exemplary protection system in an undeployed configuration.

[0018] Figure 1BIt is a perspective view of an open-air vehicle with a front protection system in an deployed configuration.

[0019] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the front protection system in its undeployed configuration, with the engine hood removed for illustration.

[0020] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of the front protection system in its deployed configuration, with the engine hood removed for illustration.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a bottom perspective view of the front protection system, with the engine hood removed for illustration purposes.

[0022] Figure 4A Yes, the top assembly of the protection system on the open-air vehicle is in a perspective view of the retracted configuration.

[0023] Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the top assembly on an open-air vehicle in an extended configuration.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the separate top assembly in a retracted configuration.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a part of the top assembly of the chassis attached to an open-air vehicle.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a portion of the top bracket of the top assembly, which includes the top bracket drive.

[0027] Figure 8A This is a diagram of the wire connections used for the top assembly in the extended configuration.

[0028] Figure 8B This is a diagram of the wire connections used for the top assembly in a retracted configuration.

[0029] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of part of a protection system that includes cables for retraction. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Referring to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like parts throughout several views, a protective system 102 for an open-air vehicle 100 includes a left rail 104, a right rail 106, a front bracket 108, and a front panel 110. The left rail 104 is fixed relative to the frame 112 of the open-air vehicle 100. The left rail 104 is longitudinally positioned in front of the body 114 of the open-air vehicle 100. The left rail 104 extends longitudinally relative to the open-air vehicle 100. The right rail 106 is fixed relative to the frame 112. The right rail 106 is longitudinally positioned in front of the body 114. The right rail 106 is parallel to the left rail 104. The front bracket 108 engages with the left rail 104 and the right rail 106. The front bracket 108 is slidable along the left rail 104 and the right rail 106 between a front position and a rear position. The front position is in front of the rear position. The front panel 110 extends from a lower edge 116 to an upper edge 118. The front panel 110 is rotatable around the front bracket 108 at its lower edge 116. The front panel 110 can move together with the front bracket 108 between an undeployed position and an deployed position. When the front bracket 108 is in the forward position, the front panel 110 is in the undeployed position. When the front bracket 108 is in the rear position, the front panel 110 is in the deployed position. In the deployed position, the front panel 110 tilts upwards from the front bracket 108 in front of the carriage 114. The front panel 110 is more horizontal in the undeployed position than in the deployed position.

[0031] refer to Figure 1A The open-top vehicle 100 is a passenger car. For the purposes of this disclosure, "open-top" as a modifier is defined as making the passenger compartment 114 exposed (e.g., lacking a permanent structure above the driver's head). For example, the open-top vehicle 100 could be a racing car used in series such as Formula One and IndyCar.

[0032] The open-air vehicle 100 includes a frame 112. The open-air vehicle 100 may use a monocoque design, wherein the frame 112 is a single integrated structure that also serves as the body of the open-air vehicle 100.

[0033] The open-air vehicle 100 includes a compartment 114 for accommodating occupants of the open-air vehicle 100. The compartment 114 may include a single seat 120 for the driver. The compartment 114 may be defined by a frame 112. The compartment 114 may have an open top, and the seat 120 may be positioned such that the driver's head extends upward from the compartment 114.

[0034] To understand terms such as "front", "forward", "longitudinal", "rear", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward", "downward", "horizontal", and "vertical" in relation to open-air vehicles 100.

[0035] refer to Figures 1A to 1B and Figures 4A to 4BAs a general overview, the protection system 102 includes a front protection assembly 122 and a top assembly 124. The front protection assembly 122 is available from, as shown in... Figure 1A The retraction configuration shown is extended as follows: Figure 1B The extended configuration is shown. The front protection assembly 122 includes a front panel 110 among other components. When the front protection assembly 122 is in the retracted configuration, the front panel 110 is in the unfolded position, as shown. Figure 2A As shown, and when the front protection assembly 122 is in the extended configuration, the front panel 110 is in the unfolded position, as... Figure 2B As shown. The top assembly 124 is configured to extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front protection assembly 122 extending from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration (i.e., in response to the front panel 110 moving from a non-extended position to an extended position). The extension of the top assembly 124 may overlap with the extension of the front protection system. For example, the front protection assembly 122 may begin to transition from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, which triggers the top assembly 124 to begin transitioning. The top assembly 124 may begin to transition from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration before the front protection assembly 122 has fully moved to the extended configuration.

[0036] refer to Figures 2A to 2B In general, the front protection assembly 122 may include a left rail 104, a right rail 106, a front bracket 108, a front panel 110, an engine hood 126, a U-shaped member 128, a left connecting rod 130, a right connecting rod 132, a rotary actuator 134, a belt 136, a drive mechanism 138, and a magnetic extension 140. When the front protection assembly 122 is in a retracted configuration, the front bracket 108 is in a forward position, the front panel 110 and engine hood 126 are in an unfolded position, and the U-shaped member 128 and connecting rods 130 and 132 are in a downward position. When the front protection assembly 122 is in an extended configuration, the front bracket 108 is in a rearward position, the front panel 110 and engine hood 126 are in an unfolded position, and the U-shaped member 128 and connecting rods 130 and 132 are in an upward position. To move the front protection assembly 122 from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, a rotary actuator 134 drives a belt 136 and / or a drive mechanism 138. The belt 136 pulls the front bracket 108 in tracks 104, 106 from a front position to a rear position, thereby pushing the front panel 110 from a non-extended position to an extended position (coordinated with the movement of the U-shaped member 128 from a lower position to an upper position). The drive mechanism 138 rotates links 130, 132 to an upward position. The movement of links 130, 132 and the front panel 110 raises the U-shaped member 128 to an upward position.

[0037] Left rail 104 and right rail 106 are fixed relative to frame 112. For example, rails 104 and 106 can be fastened to frame 112. Left rail 104 and right rail 106 are longitudinally positioned in front of the carriage 114 of open vehicle 100 (e.g., on top of the flat surface inside the front end 142 of open vehicle 100). Left rail 104 and right rail 106 extend longitudinally relative to open vehicle 100. Right rail 106 is parallel to left rail 104 (and vice versa). Left rail 104 and right rail 106 can be symmetrical to each other across the longitudinal midplane of open vehicle 100. The longitudinal midplane extends along the longitudinal (front-rear) axis of open vehicle 100 and along the vertical (up-down) axis.

[0038] Tracks 104 and 106 may be configured to allow the front bracket 108 to slide between a front position and a rear position, and to prevent the front bracket 108 from sliding forward beyond the front position and backward beyond the rear position. For example, the left track 104 and the right track 106 may each include one or two track members 144, with a track slot 146 extending through said one or both track members. The track slot 146 may be configured to receive a pin 148 of the front bracket 108. The track slot 146 may extend from the front position to the rear position and terminate at both the front and rear positions. The track slot 146 may have a width matching the diameter of the pin 148.

[0039] The front bracket 108 may include a center bracket 150 and a pin 148. The center bracket 150 is positioned between the left rail 104 and the right rail 106. The pin 148 may have a cylindrical shape defining an axis that extends laterally relative to the open vehicle 100. The pin 148 may extend through the center bracket 150. The center bracket 150 may be shaped to maintain the same orientation when sliding between a front position and a rear position.

[0040] The front bracket 108 engages with the left rail 104 and the right rail 106. The front bracket 108 is slidable along the left rail 104 and the right rail 106 between a front position and a rear position. The front position is in front of the rear position. The rear position can be closest to the carriage 114, and the front position can be furthest from the carriage 114. For example, a pin 148 can extend through a rail slot 146 of the left rail 104 and the right rail 106. Rails 104, 106 can include rail latches 152 configured to retain the front bracket 108 (e.g., pin 148) once it has moved to the rear position.

[0041] The front panel 110 may include two front panel beams 154 and a front panel plate 156. The front panel beams 154 extend longitudinally parallel to each other and may (depending on the location of the front panel 110) extend vertically relative to the open-top vehicle 100. The front panel plate 156 extends from one of the front panel beams 154 to the other. The front panel plate 156 and the front panel beams 154 are fixed together. For example, the front panel beams 154 may be welded to the front panel plate 156, or the front panel beams 154 may be integral with the front panel plate 156 (i.e., made of a single, homogeneous piece of material without seams, joints, fasteners, or adhesives holding them together). The front panel 110 extends from a lower edge 116 to a upper edge 118. The front panel plate 156 and the front panel beams 154 may extend from the lower edge 116 to the upper edge 118. The front panel plate 156 and the front panel beams 154 may be aligned at the upper edge 118. The front panel beam 154 may extend beyond the front panel 156 at its lower edge 116 to connect to the pin 148 of the front bracket 108.

[0042] The front plate 110 is rotatable about the front bracket 108 at its lower edge 116. For example, the front plate beam 154 may define a circular hole through which a pin 148 of the front bracket 108 extends. The front plate 110 is rotatable about an axis defined by the cylindrical shape of the pin 148. The perforated portion of the front plate beam 154 may be positioned between the track members 144 of each of the tracks 104, 106.

[0043] The front panel 110 can move together with the front bracket 108 between an undeployed position and an deployed position. When the front bracket 108 is in the forward position, the front panel 110 is in the undeployed position. Figure 2A As shown. The front panel 110 in the unfolded position is more horizontal (e.g., completely horizontal) than when it is in the unfolded position. When the current bracket 108 is in the rear position, the front panel 110 is in the unfolded position, as shown. Figure 2B As shown. Due to the connection between the upper edge 118 of the front panel 110 and the U-shaped member 128, when the lower edge 116 of the front panel 110 is pushed backward by the front bracket 108, the upper edge 118 of the front panel 110 moves upward rather than just backward. In the unfolded position, the front panel 110 tilts upward from the front bracket 108 in front of the carriage 114.

[0044] Return to Figures 1A to 1BThe hood 126 is fixed to the front panel 110. The hood 126 is positioned to conceal the front panel 110 when it is in the unfolded position (and to conceal the top assembly 124 when it is in a retracted configuration). As the front panel 110 moves between the unfolded and unfolded positions, the hood 126 moves with the front panel 110. The hood 126 can be bent as part of the aerodynamic shape of the front end 142 of the exposed vehicle 100. When the hood 126 and the front panel 110 are in the unfolded position, the hood 126 can form a smooth outer surface of the exposed vehicle 100 together with the rest of the front end 142. The hood 126 may define an opening at the upper edge 118 of the front panel 110, through which the top assembly 124 can extend, as described below.

[0045] Return to Figure 2B The U-shaped member 128 is generally U-shaped. The U-shaped member 128 includes a central member 158 extending laterally relative to the open vehicle 100, a left arm 160 extending rearward from the central member 158, and a right arm 162 extending rearward from the central member 158. The central member 158 may be centered on the longitudinal midplane of the open vehicle 100. The U-shaped member 128 may be symmetrical across the longitudinal midplane. The left half of the central member 158 may be symmetrical across the longitudinal midplane with the right half of the central member 158, and the left arm 160 may be symmetrical across the longitudinal midplane with the right arm 162. The left arm 160 may extend along the left side of the carriage 114, and the right arm 162 may extend along the right side of the carriage 114. The left arm 160 and the right arm 162 may extend outward and rearward from the central member 158. With this shape, the U-shaped member 128 extends from in front of the driver and along the driver's side from in front of the driver to behind the driver. When the U-shaped member 128 is in the downward position, it can surround the driver such that the left arm 160 is close to the driver's left side and the right arm 162 is close to the driver's right side. When the U-shaped member 128 is in the upward position, it can be positioned at least partially above the driver's head.

[0046] A U-shaped member 128 (e.g., a center member 158) is hinged to the front plate 110 at its upper edge 118. Thus, the left arm 160 and the right arm 162 extend rearward from the front plate 110. The U-shaped member 128 and the front plate 110 are rotatable relative to each other about a horizontal lateral axis defined by the hinged connection. The U-shaped member 128 is hinged to the left link 130 at the end of the left arm 160, and to the right link 132 at the end of the right arm 162. Each of the links 130, 132 and the U-shaped member 128 are rotatable relative to each other about a horizontal lateral axis defined by the respective hinged connection.

[0047] Left link 130 and right link 132 are symmetrical across the longitudinal midplane of the open-air vehicle 100. Each link 130, 132 extends from a first end to a second end. The first end of each link 130, 132 is hinged to the end of a corresponding one of the left arm 160 and right arm 162 of the U-shaped member 128. The second end of each link 130, 132 is hinged longitudinally to the frame 112 behind the carriage 114. Links 130, 132 may be significantly shorter than the arms 160, 162 of the U-shaped member 128.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 The rotary actuator 134 is positioned to drive the belt 136 and / or the drive mechanism 138. For example, the rotary actuator 134 may be positioned below and / or behind the driver and seat 120. The rotary actuator 134 may be any suitable actuator for generating rotational kinetic energy (e.g., an electric motor that converts electrical energy into rotational kinetic energy or a pyrotechnic actuator that uses a chemical reaction to drive rotational kinetic energy). The rotary actuator 134 applies rotational motion to the belt 136 and / or the drive mechanism 138.

[0049] Belt 136 is positioned to be driven by rotary actuator 134 and to drive front bracket 108. Belt 136 can be tensioned around the output shaft of rotary actuator 134 so as to be driven by rotary actuator 134. Rotational movement of the output shaft applies translational movement to belt 136. Belt 136 can extend from rotary actuator 134 through open vehicle 100 to tracks 104, 106. Belt 136 can be held in place by a plurality of pulleys 164 mounted to frame 112 of open vehicle 100. Front bracket 108 can be secured to belt 136. A portion of belt 136 can be tensioned below tracks 104, 106, and translational movement of this portion of belt 136 causes front bracket 108 to move between a front position and a rear position.

[0050] Drive mechanism 138 is positioned to be driven by rotary actuator 134 and to drive links 130, 132. For example, drive mechanism 138 may include one or more chains 166, sprockets 168, and drive rods 170. Each chain 166 may engage with two sprockets 168 and transmit rotational motion from one sprocket 168 to another in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the sprockets 168. Each drive rod 170 may be attached to two or more sprockets 168 and transmit rotational motion from one sprocket 168 to another along the common axis of rotation of the sprockets 168 and drive rods 170. Drive mechanism 138 converts the rotational output of rotary actuator 134 into rotation of links 130, 132 at their second ends.

[0051] Return to Figure 2BThe magnetic extension 140 is fixed relative to one or both of the left link 130 and the right link 132. Each magnetic extension 140 is positioned to be magnetically attached to the frame 112 of the open-air vehicle 100 when the front protection assembly 122 is in the extended configuration (i.e., when the front plate 110 is in the extended position and the corresponding links 130, 132 are in the upward position). Each magnetic extension 140 can hang from the corresponding links 130, 132, and each magnetic extension 140 may include a magnet at a free end defined by a cantilever shape. The magnet may be an electromagnet or a permanent magnet. When the links 130, 132 are in the downward position, the magnet may be spaced apart from the frame 112 (or, for electromagnets, de-energized). When links 130 and 132 are in the upward position, the magnet can be positioned to magnetically attach to the frame 112, thereby helping to hold the front protection assembly 122 in the extended position (possibly in conjunction with the track clip 152 retaining pin 148).

[0052] refer to Figures 4A to 4B As a general overview, the top assembly 124 includes a top bracket 172, multiple top plates 174, multiple guard plates 176, a reel 178, a reel axis 180, a retraction spring 182, a retraction line 184, and guard plate springs 186. When the top assembly 124 is in a retracted configuration, the top bracket 172 is in a retracted position on the front panel 110, the top plates 174 are in a retracted position stacked on the top bracket 172, and the guard plates 176 are in an inward position on their respective top plates 174 (e.g., ...). Figure 4A (As shown). When the top assembly 124 is in the extended configuration, the top bracket 172 is in an extended position extending from the front panel 110, the top panel 174 is in an extended position extending from the top bracket 172 or the corresponding top panel 174, and the shroud 176 is in an outward position extending to the left or right from the corresponding top panel 174 (as shown). Figure 4B (As shown).

[0053] Continuing with the general overview, in order to move the top assembly 124 from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, in response to the front protection assembly 122 initiating the move from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration, the top bracket driver 188 of the top bracket 172 is activated. The top bracket driver 188 causes the top bracket 172 to move along the front panel 110 from a retracted position to an extended position. This movement causes the reel 180 to unwind from the reel 178. The end of the reel 180 is attached to the uppermost of the top panels 174, so the unwinding allows the top panels 174 to move relative to the top bracket 172 and to each other. The return spring 182 pulls the corresponding return line 184 inward, thereby pulling the top panel 174 to the extended position. The movement of the top panel 174 brings the guard plate 176 to the outside of the edge of the top bracket 172, thereby allowing the guard plate spring 186 to rotate the guard plate 176 from an inward position to an outward position.

[0054] refer to Figure 5 The top bracket 172 includes an upper section 190, a lower section 192, at least one top bracket spring 194, at least one reel 178, and at least one top bracket actuator 188 (in Figure 7 (As shown in the diagram). Upper section 190 and lower section 192 are generally rectangular in shape. Upper section 190 and lower section 192 are hinged together. Upper section 190 and lower section 192 are rotatable relative to each other about a horizontal transverse axis defined by the hinged connection. Top bracket spring 194 connects upper section 190 and lower section 192. Reel 178 is mounted to upper section 190 and is rotatable relative to upper section 190. Top bracket actuator 188 is mounted to either upper section 190 or lower section 192 (e.g., lower section 192). Top bracket actuator 188 is arranged to move top bracket 172 relative to front panel 110 and simultaneously rotate reel 178.

[0055] Return to Figures 4A to 4B The top bracket 172 can be in a retracted position relative to the front panel 110 (e.g., Figure 4A (as shown) and extension position (such as) Figure 4B The top bracket 172 can move between (as shown). For example, the front panel 110 may include a front panel track 196, and the top bracket 172 can slide between a retracted position and an extended position within the front panel track 196. The front panel track 196 may include a lip extending parallel to the front panel beam 154, and the lateral edges of the upper segment 190 and lower segment 192 of the top bracket 172 can engage within and slide along the lip. When the top bracket 172 is in the retracted position, the top bracket 172 is positioned on the front panel 110, and the upper segment 190 and lower segment 192 are located within the front panel track 196. Therefore, the upper segment 190 and lower segment 192 are parallel to the front panel 110. When the top bracket 172 is in the extended position, the top bracket 172 extends from the front panel 110. For example, the lower segment 192 is in the front panel track 196, and the upper segment 190 is spaced apart from the front panel 110. The upper section 190 is also angled downward relative to the lower section 192 and the front plate 110 (for example, with the assistance of the top bracket spring as described below).

[0056] A top bracket spring 194 connects the upper section 190 and the lower section 192. The top bracket spring 194 controls the relative orientation of the upper section 190 and the lower section 192. The top bracket spring 194 can be arranged to bias the upper section 190 downwards away from the front panel 110. For example, the top bracket spring 194 can be a linear tension spring. One end of each top bracket spring 194 can be secured to the lower section 192 at a position above the remainder of the lower section 192, and the other end of each top bracket spring 194 can be secured to the upper section 190 at a position below the remainder of the upper section 190. The top bracket spring 194 can be loaded to extend (i.e., tensioned longer than its slack length), meaning the top bracket spring 194 is biased towards compression. The compression of the top bracket spring 194 pulls the upper section 190 downward relative to the lower section 192, thereby causing the upper section 190 to be offset away from being parallel to the lower section 192 and the front panel 110. When the top bracket 172 is in the retracted position, the front panel rail 196 keeps the upper section 190 parallel to the front panel 110. When the top bracket 172 moves to the extended position, the upper section 190 becomes free of the front panel rail 196, and the offset of the top bracket spring 194 allows it to pull the upper section 190 downward.

[0057] The top assembly 124 includes a plurality of top plates 174. In the example shown in the figure, the top assembly 124 includes three top plates 174, which will be referred to as the first top plate 174a, the second top plate 174b, and the third top plate 174c. The first top plate 174a is mounted to and positioned on the top bracket 172, and each of the other top plates 174b to 174c is mounted to and positioned on the preceding top plate of the top plates 174 (e.g., on the top plate 174 directly below it). For example, the second top plate 174b is mounted to and positioned on the first top plate 174a, and the third top plate 174c is mounted to and positioned on the second top plate 174b. The top plates 174 may have a generally rectangular shape. The top plates 174 may have approximately the same dimensions as each other, thereby allowing for compact stacking of the top plates 174.

[0058] The first top plate 174a can slide on the top bracket 172 between a retracted position and an extended position, and the remaining top plates 174 can slide on their respective bottom plates 174 in the stack between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, each top plate 174 overlaps the top plate 174 or top bracket 172 directly below it, for example, substantially overlapping it (e.g., more than 50% overlap). In the extended position, each top plate 174 extends from the top plate 174 or top bracket 172 directly below it, for example, not substantially overlapping it (e.g., less than 50% overlap).

[0059] As an example, the top bracket 172 includes a top bracket track 198 (e.g. Figure 5 (as shown), and the first top plate 174a is slidable between a retracted position and an extended position in the top bracket track 198. The remaining top plates 174b to 174c may include top plate slots 200 (in Figure 6 (Best shown in the diagram), the top plate slot interlocks with the top plate stud 202 in the top plate 174 directly below (or vice versa). For example, the top plate stud 202 on the top side of the first top plate 174a interlocks with the top plate slot 200 passing through the second top plate 174b, and the top plate stud 202 on the upward-facing side of the second top plate 174b interlocks with the top plate slot 200 passing through the third top plate 174c. The top plate slot 200 can extend parallel to the top bracket track 198.

[0060] Top plates 174 collectively extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, each top plate 174 is in the retracted position. The top plates 174 in the retracted configuration are stacked. In the extended configuration, each top plate 174 is in the extended position. In the extended configuration, the first top plate 174a extends from the top bracket 172, and each of the other top plates 174b to 174c extends from the previous top plate (i.e., the top plate 174 directly below) among the top plates 174.

[0061] refer to Figure 6 The extended roof panel 174 can be attached to the frame 112 of the open-air vehicle 100 at the rear of the carriage 114. For example, the uppermost roof panel 174 (e.g., the third roof panel 174c) can be attached to a tower of the frame 112 located at the rear of the carriage 114. The frame 112 may include a hook 222 configured to engage with the third roof panel 174c. The third roof panel 174c may include an opening positioned to align with the hook 222 when the roof panel 174 is in the extended configuration. The hook 222 may be deployable. For example, the hook 222 may be rotated to a position that prevents the third roof panel 174c from being lifted and disengaged from the frame 112 (e.g., from the surface of the tower of the frame 112).

[0062] refer to Figure 7A top bracket actuator 188 is arranged to drive a top bracket 172 along the front panel 110. For example, the top bracket actuator 188 may be mounted to the lower section 192 of the top bracket 172. The top bracket actuator 188 may drive a corresponding actuator gear 204. The actuator gear 204 may be mounted to the lower section 192. The actuator gear 204 may be a spur gear. The actuator gear 204 engages with a corresponding rack 206 fixed to the front panel 110. The rack gear 206 may extend along the front panel track 196 (e.g., one rack gear 206 at each lateral edge of the front panel 110, wherein the rack gears 206 extend parallel to each other). Each actuator gear 204 may engage with a corresponding rack in the rack 206. As the actuator gear 204 rotates, the actuator gear 204 pushes the lower section 192 from a retracted position to an extended position (or vice versa) along the front panel track 196.

[0063] Return to Figure 5 One or more reels 178 are mounted to a top bracket 172 (e.g., to an upper section 190). Reels 178 are rotatable relative to the top bracket 172. The ends of corresponding reel axes 180 are attached to reels 178, and corresponding reel axes 180 are wound around reels 178. The unwinding and winding of the reels 178 control the extension and retraction of the top plate 174, as described below. Reels 178 can be rotated by corresponding reel gears 224. The reel gear 224 for each reel 178 may include a single spur gear or a spur gear chain. The reel gear 224 engages with a corresponding rack gear 206 of the front plate 110. For example, the reel gear 224 may engage with the same rack gear 206 as the drive gear 204, or each lateral edge of the front plate 110 may include two rack gears 206, one engaging with the drive gear 204 and one engaging with the reel gear 224. As the top bracket 172 moves along the front plate 110, the relative movement of the top bracket 172 with respect to the rack and pinion 206 causes the spool gear 224 to rotate, thereby causing the spool 178 to rotate to wind or unwind the spool axis 180.

[0064] refer to Figures 8A to 8B Each spindle axis 180 extends from one end attached to the corresponding spindle 178 to the other end attached to the uppermost top plate 174 (e.g., the third top plate 174c). The unwinding length of the spindle axis 180 defines the maximum distance from the spindle 178 to the attachment point of the line to the third top plate 174c. As the spindle axis 180 unwinds from the spindle 178, the maximum distance increases, thereby allowing the top plate 174 to move from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration.

[0065] Retraction springs 182 and retraction lines 184 are arranged to pull top plates 174 into an extended configuration. Each retraction line 184 extends from a first end of a corresponding retraction spring attached to one of the top plates 174 to a second end attached to one of the top plates 174. The first end of each retraction line 184 may be attached to a corresponding retraction spring 182, which is attached to one of the top plates 174, and the second end of each retraction line 184 may be attached to the next top plate in a stack of top plates 174. In the example shown in the accompanying drawings, a first retraction spring 182a is attached to a top bracket 172, and a first retraction line 184a extends from the first retraction spring 182a to a first top plate 174a; a second retraction spring 182b is attached to the first top plate 174a, and a second retraction line 184b extends from the second retraction spring 182b to the second top plate 174b; and a third retraction spring 182c is attached to the second top plate 174b, and a third retraction line 184c extends from the third retraction spring 182c to the third top plate 174c. Retraction springs 182 may be attached to the underside of the respective top bracket 172 and top plate 174. Retraction springs 182 attached to the top plate 174 may be concealed within the top plate 174. The retraction lines 184 may be arranged such that the unwound length of each retraction line 184 is shorter when the top plate 174 is in an extended configuration than when the top plate 174 is in a retracted configuration. For example, a first end of each retraction wire 184 can be attached to the rear end of the top plate 174, and a second end can be attached to a corresponding retraction spring 182 mounted to the front end of the next top plate. Therefore, when the winding shaft 180 is unwound, the retraction spring 182 causes the corresponding retraction wire 184 to retract, thereby moving the top plate 174 from the retracted position (e.g., Figure 8B (As shown) Pull to the extended position (e.g.) Figure 8A (As shown).

[0066] Return to Figure 4B The top assembly 124 includes a plurality of guard plates 176. Two guard plates 176, referred to as left guard plate 176a and right guard plate 176b, can be attached to each of the top bracket 172 and the top plate 174. Thus, in the example with three top plates 174, the top assembly 124 includes a total of eight guard plates 176. The guard plates 176 may have a generally rectangular shape. The guard plates 176 may have dimensions that are generally the same as or slightly smaller than the corresponding top plate 174 or top bracket 172 in order to be accommodated on the corresponding top plate 174 or top bracket 172.

[0067] Return to Figure 4B and Figure 5Each cover 176 is rotatable relative to its corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 between an inward and an outward position. In the inward position, the cover 176 overlaps the corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 substantially (e.g., more than 50% overlap) or completely overlaps it. In the outward position, the cover 176 extends to the left (for the left cover 176a) or right (for the right cover 176b), for example, not overlapping the corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 (e.g., less than 50% overlap). The use of the cover 176 allows coverage of an area laterally wider than the width of the front panel 110, while the top assembly 124 in the retracted configuration can still be packaged on the front panel 110.

[0068] As an example, return to Figure 6 Each guard plate 176 can be connected to a corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 by a pin, and the guard plate 176 is rotatable about the pin. The pin can be positioned closer to the lateral edge of the corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174, from which the guard plate 176 extends in the outer position (extending to the left for the left guard plate 176a and to the right for the right guard plate 176b). Guard plate springs 186 can connect at least some of the guard plates 176 to the corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 (e.g., one of each pair of left and right guard plates 176 can be connected to the corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174 by guard plate spring 186). Each guard plate spring 186 can be arranged to bias the connected guard plate 176 toward the outer position. Guard plate lines 208 can connect each left guard plate 176a to the corresponding right guard plate 176b. The guard plate line 208 can be arranged such that a pair of guard plates 176 rotate back and forth between an inner position and an outer position. Each guard plate 176 may include a semi-circular slot that engages with a stud extending from a corresponding top bracket 172 or top plate 174, the semi-circular slot guiding rotation between the inner and outer positions. The semi-circular slot is centered on a corresponding pin about which the guard plate 176 can rotate.

[0069] The cover panels 176 collectively move from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, each cover panel 176 is in an inward position. The cover panels 176 in the retracted configuration are stacked on the respective top bracket 172 and top plate 174. In the extended configuration, each cover panel 176 is in an outward position. In the extended configuration, the left cover panel 176a extends to the left from the respective top bracket 172 and top plate 174, and the right cover panel 176b extends to the right from the respective top bracket 172 and top plate 174. When the top plate 174 and cover panels 176 are in the retracted configuration, the top assembly 124 is in the retracted configuration, and when the top plate 174 and cover panels 176 are in the extended configuration, the top assembly 124 is in the extended configuration.

[0070] refer to Figure 9 The retraction of the top assembly 124 can be manually activated by the driver. The top cable 210 can extend from a first end to a second end. The first end is accessible within the passenger compartment 114. For example, the first end may be attached to a top retraction handle 212 located within the passenger compartment 114, and / or the top cable 210 may be exposed within the passenger compartment 114. The top retraction handle 212 or the top cable 210 may be accessible to the driver for pulling (e.g., located in front of the steering yoke). The second end may be attached to the top assembly 124 (e.g., top bracket 172). For example, the lower section 192 may include a top cable attachment point 214 (e.g., ...). Figure 5 As shown), the second end of the top cable 210 is fixed to the top cable attachment point (e.g. Figures 4A to 4B (As shown). When the top cable 210 is under tension greater than a preset amount (e.g., due to a force applied by the driver), the second end of the top cable 210 applies a force that pulls the top assembly 124 into a retracted configuration (e.g., by pulling it to the retracted position via the top bracket 172). For example, the top cable 210 may pass through the front bracket 108 (like a pulley) such that the top cable 210 extends forward from the top cable attachment point 214 on the lower segment 192. The top cable 210 may be arranged to default to a minimum amount of tension (e.g., when not pulled). The minimum amount of tension is below a preset amount. The minimum amount of tension keeps the top cable 210 taut and extends straight from the top cable attachment point 214. For example, a spring (not shown) at the top retractable handle 212 may be biased to wind the top cable 210.

[0071] The driver can retract the top assembly 124 by pulling the top retraction handle 212 or directly pulling the top cable 210, thereby applying tension to the top cable 210 and pulling the top bracket 172 from the extended position to the retracted position. The movement of the top bracket 172 from the extended position to the retracted position causes the reel 178 to rotate and wind around the reel axis 180. The retraction of the reel axis 180 causes the top plate 174 to retract. As the top plate 174 moves into a stacked position on the top bracket 172, the edge of the top bracket 172 pushes the cover plate 176 from the outer position to the inner position. Therefore, the top cable 210 is able to move the top assembly 124 from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration.

[0072] The retraction of the front protection assembly 122 can be manually activated by the driver. The front cable 216 can extend from a first end to a second end. The first end is accessible within the passenger compartment 114. For example, the first end may be secured to a front retraction handle 218 located within the passenger compartment 114, and / or the front cable 216 may be exposed within the passenger compartment 114. The front retraction handle 218 or the front cable 216 may be accessible to the driver for pulling. The second end may be attached to the front protection assembly 122 (e.g., front bracket 108). For example, the front bracket 108 may include a front cable attachment point 220 to which the second end of the front cable 216 is secured (e.g., front cable attachment point 220). Figure 4A (As shown). When the current cable 216 is under tension greater than a preset amount (e.g., due to force applied by the driver), the second end of the front cable 216 applies a force that pulls the front protection assembly 122 toward a retracted configuration (e.g., by pulling the front bracket 108 toward a forward position). For example, the front cable 216 may be routed in front of the forward position of the front bracket 108 (like a pulley), such that the front cable 216 extends forward from the front cable attachment point 220 on the front bracket 108. Pulling the front cable 216 pulls the front bracket 108 to the forward position, and thereby moves the front protection assembly 122 from an extended configuration to a retracted configuration. The front cable 216 may be arranged to be under minimum tension by default (e.g., when not pulled). The minimum tension is lower than a preset amount. The minimum tension keeps the front cable 216 taut and extends straight from the front cable attachment point 220. For example, a spring (not shown) at the front retractable handle 218 can be biased to wind the front cable 216.

[0073] This disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive in nature and not restrictive. In light of the foregoing teachings, many modifications and variations of this disclosure are possible, and this disclosure may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described herein. The adjectives “first,” “second,” and “third” are used throughout this document as identifiers and are not intended to indicate importance, order, or quantity. The operations, systems, and methods described herein should always be implemented and / or performed in accordance with applicable owner / user manuals and / or security guidelines.

[0074] According to the present invention, a protection system for an open-air vehicle is provided, the protection system comprising: a left rail fixed relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle, the left rail being longitudinally positioned in front of the vehicle body, the left rail extending longitudinally relative to the open-air vehicle; a right rail fixed relative to the frame, the right rail being longitudinally positioned in front of the vehicle body, the right rail being parallel to the left rail; and a front bracket engaging with the left rail and the right rail, the front bracket being movable along the left rail and the right rail in a front position and a rear position. The front portion slides between the front and rear portions, with the front portion positioned in front of the rear portion; and a front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge, the front panel being rotatable about the front bracket at the lower edge, the front panel being movable together with the front bracket between an undeployed position and an deployed position, the front panel being in the undeployed position when the front bracket is in the front portion position, the front panel being in the deployed position when the front bracket is in the rear portion position, the front panel being tilted upward from the front bracket in front of the carriage in the deployed position, and the front panel being more horizontal in the undeployed position than in the deployed position.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a U-shaped member hingedly connected to the front panel at its upper edge; the U-shaped member includes a left arm extending rearward from the front panel along the left side of the carriage; and the U-shaped member includes a right arm extending rearward from the front panel along the right side of the carriage.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a left connecting rod and a right connecting rod; the left connecting rod extends from a first end to a second end; the first end of the left connecting rod is hingedly connected to the end of the left arm of the U-shaped member; the second end of the left connecting rod is longitudinally hingedly connected to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the carriage; the right connecting rod extends from a first end to a second end; the first end of the right connecting rod is hingedly connected to the end of the right arm of the U-shaped member; and the second end of the right connecting rod is longitudinally hingedly connected to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the carriage.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a magnetic extension fixed relative to one of the left or right connecting rods; the magnetic extension is positioned to be magnetically attached to the frame of the open-air vehicle when the front panel is in the unfolded position.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an engine hood fixed to the front panel; wherein the engine hood is positioned to conceal the front panel when the front panel is in the unfolded position.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a cable extending from a first end to a second end; wherein the first end is accessible in the carriage; the second end is attached to the front bracket; and when the cable is taut, the second end of the cable applies a force that pulls the front bracket toward the front position.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a top assembly mounted to the front panel; the top assembly is configured to extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the unextended position to the extended position.

[0081] According to one embodiment: the top assembly includes a top bracket; the front panel includes a front panel track; and the top bracket is slidable in the front panel track from a retracted position on the front panel to an extended position extending from the front panel.

[0082] According to one embodiment: the top bracket includes an upper section and a lower section; the upper section and the lower section are hingedly connected; when the top bracket is in the retracted position, the upper section and the lower section are in the front panel track; and when the top bracket is in the extended position, the lower section is in the front panel track, and the upper section is spaced apart from the front panel.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a top bracket spring connecting the upper section and the lower section; wherein the top bracket spring is arranged to offset the upper section downward from parallel to the front panel.

[0084] According to one embodiment: the top assembly includes a top plate; the top bracket includes a top bracket track; and the top plate is slidable in the top bracket track from a retracted position on the top bracket to an extended position extending from the top bracket.

[0085] According to one embodiment: the top plate is a first top plate; and the top assembly includes a second top plate that is slidable relative to the first top plate from a retracted position on the first top plate to an extended position extending from the first top plate.

[0086] According to one embodiment: the top plate is a first top plate; the top assembly includes a plurality of top plates, the plurality of top plates including the first top plate; the top plates are extendable from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration; the top plates are stacked in the retracted configuration; and in the extended configuration, the first top plate extends from the top bracket, and each top plate extends from the previous top plate among the top plates.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the roof plate in the extended configuration is attached to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the passenger compartment.

[0088] According to one embodiment: the top assembly includes a cover plate that is rotatable relative to the top plate from an inner position on the top plate to an outer position extending from the top plate; the top assembly includes a cover plate spring that connects the top plate and the cover plate; and the cover plate spring is arranged to bias the cover plate toward the outer position.

[0089] According to one embodiment: the cover plate is a first cover plate; the first cover plate in the outer position extends to the left from the top plate; the top assembly includes a second cover plate, the second cover plate being rotatable relative to the top plate from an inner position on the top plate to an outer position extending from the top plate; and the second cover plate in the outer position extends to the right from the top plate.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a cable extending from a first end to a second end; wherein the first end is accessible in the carriage; the second end is attached to the top bracket; and when the cable is in a taut state, the second end of the cable applies a force to pull the top bracket to the retracted position.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an engine hood fixed to the front panel; wherein the engine hood is positioned to conceal the front panel and the top assembly when the front panel is in the unfolded position and the top assembly is in the retracted configuration.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by: a rotary actuator; and a belt positioned to be driven by the rotary actuator; wherein the front bracket is fixed to the belt.

[0093] According to the present invention, a protection system for an open-air vehicle is provided, comprising: a front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge, the front panel being movable relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle between an unextended position and an extended position, the front panel in the extended position being tilted upward from the lower edge in front of the passenger compartment of the open-air vehicle, the front panel in the unextended position being more horizontal than when in the extended position; and a top assembly mounted to the front panel, the top assembly being configured to extend from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the unextended position to the extended position.

Claims

1. A protection system for open-air vehicles, the protection system comprising: A left track, which is fixed relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle, is longitudinally positioned in front of the carriage of the open-air vehicle, and extends longitudinally relative to the open-air vehicle; The right track is fixed relative to the frame and is longitudinally positioned in front of the carriage. The right track is parallel to the left track. A front bracket, which engages with the left rail and the right rail, and is capable of sliding along the left rail and the right rail between a front position and a rear position, the front position being in front of the rear position; as well as A front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge, the front panel being rotatable around the front bracket at the lower edge, the front panel being movable together with the front bracket between an undeployed position and an deployed position, the front panel being in the undeployed position when the front bracket is in the front position, and the front panel being in the deployed position when the front bracket is in the rear position, the front panel being tilted upward from the front bracket in front of the carriage in the deployed position, and the front panel being more horizontal in the undeployed position than in the deployed position.

2. The protection system according to claim 1, further comprising a U-shaped member hinged to the front panel at the upper edge; The U-shaped member includes a left arm that extends rearward from the front panel along the left side of the carriage; and The U-shaped component includes a right arm that extends rearward from the front panel along the right side of the carriage.

3. The protection system according to claim 2, further comprising a left link and a right link; The left connecting rod extends from the first end to the second end; The first end of the left connecting rod is hingedly connected to the end of the left arm of the U-shaped member; The second end of the left link is longitudinally hinged to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the carriage; The right connecting rod extends from the first end to the second end; The first end of the right link is hingedly connected to the end of the right arm of the U-shaped member; and The second end of the right link is longitudinally hinged to the frame of the open-air vehicle at the rear of the carriage.

4. The protection system of claim 1, further comprising an engine hood, the engine hood being fixed to the front panel; The engine hood is positioned to conceal the front panel when the front panel is in the unfolded position.

5. The protection system of claim 1, further comprising a cable extending from a first end to a second end; The first end portion is accessible from within the carriage. The second end is attached to the front bracket; and When the cable is under tension, the second end of the cable applies a force that pulls the front bracket toward the front position.

6. The protection system of claim 1, further comprising a top assembly mounted to the front panel; The top assembly is configured to expand from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the unextended position to the extended position.

7. The protection system according to claim 6, wherein: The top assembly includes a top bracket; The front panel includes a front panel track; and The top bracket is capable of sliding in the front panel track from a retracted position on the front panel to an extended position extending from the front panel.

8. The protection system according to claim 7, wherein: The top bracket includes an upper section and a lower section; The upper section and the lower section are hinged to each other. When the top bracket is in the retracted position, the upper section and the lower section are in the front panel track; and When the top bracket is in the extended position, the lower section is in the front panel track, and the upper section is spaced apart from the front panel.

9. The protection system according to claim 7, wherein: The top assembly includes a top plate; The top bracket includes a top bracket track; and The top plate is capable of sliding in the top bracket track from a retracted position on the top bracket to an extended position extending from the top bracket.

10. The protection system according to claim 9, wherein: The top plate is the first top plate; and The top assembly includes a second top plate that is slidable relative to the first top plate from a retracted position on the first top plate to an extended position extending from the first top plate.

11. The protection system according to claim 9, wherein: The top assembly includes a cover plate that is rotatable relative to the top plate from an inner position on the top plate to an outer position extending from the top plate; The top assembly includes a cover spring that connects the top plate and the cover plate; and The guard plate spring is arranged to offset the guard plate toward the outward position.

12. The protection system of claim 7, further comprising a cable extending from a first end to a second end; The first end portion is accessible from within the carriage. The second end is attached to the top bracket; and When the cable is in a taut state, the second end of the cable applies a force that pulls the top bracket to the retracted position.

13. The protection system of claim 6, further comprising an engine hood, the engine hood being secured to the front panel; The engine hood is positioned to conceal the front panel and the top assembly when the front panel is in the unfolded position and the top assembly is in the retracted configuration.

14. The protection system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising: Rotary actuator; as well as A belt, the belt being positioned to be driven by the rotary actuator; The front bracket is fixed to the belt.

15. A protection system for an open-air vehicle, the protection system comprising: A front panel extending from a lower edge to an upper edge, the front panel being movable relative to the frame of the open-air vehicle between an undeployed position and an deployed position, the front panel in the deployed position tilting upward from the lower edge in front of the cargo compartment of the open-air vehicle, the front panel in the undeployed position being more horizontal than when it is in the deployed position; as well as A top assembly, which is mounted to the front panel, is configured to expand from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration in response to the front panel moving from the unextended position to the extended position.

Images