Articulating Front Top Assembly for SUV
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible top systems for SUVs are either bulky and difficult to remove for an open-air feel, or they require complete removal and storage, which is time-consuming and ergonomically disadvantageous, lacking a quick and easy solution to provide an open-air experience without compromising weatherproofing.
Innovation Solution
A foldable soft panel top assembly that seals against a hard top roof, allowing for quick and easy conversion from a closed to an open position without removing the top, using lightweight materials and minimal framing, with pivot points and sealing mechanisms to maintain weatherproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a hard top is used to provide roof protection, then weatherproofing is improved, but the ability to provide an open-air feel is worsened because the entire top must be removed which is time-consuming and requires storage
Solution Approach 1:
The hard top is divided into a fixed portion and a removable front top panel. The front top panel can be independently removed from the hard top, allowing occupants to achieve an open-air feel without removing the entire roof structure. This segmentation enables selective removal of only the necessary portion while maintaining weatherproofing where needed.
2Ease of operation
If the entire hard top is removed to provide an open-air feel, then the open-air experience is improved, but storage difficulty and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The front top panel is designed as a separate, removable component that can be quickly detached from the hard top using simple latches. This allows the panel to be removed and stored separately without the need to remove the entire hard top structure, significantly reducing the time and effort required to achieve an open-air experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The front top panel is extracted as a独立 removable component from the hard top assembly. This extracted panel can be easily removed and stored in a convenient location, eliminating the need to store the entire hard top structure and reducing the time required for the opening operation.
3Ease of operation
If a soft top is used instead of hard top, then ease of opening is improved, but weatherproofing capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of both hard top and soft top by combining a hard top structure with a removable front panel that can be made of lighter material. The hard top portion maintains weatherproofing capability while the removable front panel provides easy opening for open-air experience, creating a hybrid system that exhibits both characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating front top cover assembly for a vehicle in sealing engagement with a hard top portion of a roof. The articulating portion is operably connected to a frame. An articulating portion movable between at least a closed position over the front vehicle compartment and open position for an open air feel.