Cabrio Bus Nestable Roof Elements for Weather Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing cabrio buses require laborious conversion between closed and open roof states, and the removable roof section is not always available for immediate reattachment in case of sudden weather changes.
Innovation Solution
The U-shaped roof construction is composed of nestable, shape-retaining roof elements that can be stored compactly on the bus, with at least one immovable element providing protection and guide rails facilitating easy movement and reattachment, along with an expandable seal to ensure weatherproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the roof construction is completely removed from the bus body, then the bus can be used with an open roof, but the roof construction is not available for immediate reattachment in case of sudden weather changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nesting mechanism where the removable roof construction is stored within a dedicated storage space integrated into the bus body structure. When removed from the bus, the roof construction is placed into a recess or compartment that is part of the bus body, ensuring it remains attached to the bus while in storage. This allows the roof to be quickly reattached in case of sudden weather changes, as it is already positioned and secured to the bus rather than being completely separated.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the roof construction is detachably attached to allow open roof configuration, then the bus can convert between closed and open states, but the conversion process becomes laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the roof construction into multiple segments or sections that can be independently manipulated. The roof construction comprises a frame with side panels and a top panel that can be detached as a modular assembly. This segmentation allows for easier handling and conversion, as the divided structure reduces the overall weight and complexity of the single piece that would need to be moved, making the conversion process less laborious while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces guide rails or tracks as intermediary elements between the roof construction and the bus body. These guide rails facilitate the movement and positioning of the roof construction during conversion, reducing the manual effort required. The intermediary structure provides a mechanical advantage that makes it easier to attach and detach the roof, thereby reducing conversion effort while preserving configuration flexibility.
3Volume of moving object
If the removable roof construction is stored outside the bus, then space is saved inside the bus, but the roof construction is separated from the bus and not immediately available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a storage compartment or recess into the bus body structure where the removable roof construction can be stored when not in use. This nested storage solution allows the roof to be kept attached to the bus in a compact form, ensuring immediate availability for reattachment in case of weather changes. The storage space is designed as part of the bus body, so it does not encroach on passenger space, while maintaining the roof's readiness for quick deployment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a bus of the hardtop type having at least six seats. The bus comprises a chassis and a body with an at least substantially U-shaped roof construction, which covers, at least some of the seats of the bus, which roof construction can be removed, and be replaced again, over at least some of the at least six seats. The substantially U-shaped roof construction comprises at least two substantially shape retaining, nestable roof elements of at least substantially U-shaped cross-section, which are movable relative to each other and which are positioned at least substantially one behind another, at least in the covering position.