Convertible Top Lock Hook Holding Device for Offset Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing convertible top systems face safety concerns as the rigid roof element and cowl may become offset during an accident, leading to unintentional disengagement of the locking hook from the locking element, compromising the security of the roof.
Innovation Solution
A holding device, comprising a holding pin with an annular collar and a long hole with a tapered portion, or a stop pin, is integrated into the lock arrangements to prevent disengagement by ensuring the locking hook and locking element remain engaged even if the cowl and roof element become offset, using a keyhole-shaped long hole or a stop pin mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking hook and locking element are used to secure the convertible top, then the convertible top can be reliably locked in the closed position, but the locking hook may disengage from the locking element if the cowl becomes offset during an accident
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is pre-installed and positioned to engage with the cowl before any offset occurs. It acts as a safety catch that is already in place to prevent disengagement of the locking hook during accidental offset, cushioning against the potential failure mode rather than reacting to it after occurrence.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device serves as an intermediary safety mechanism between the locking hook and the cowl. It provides an additional engagement point that mediates the connection, ensuring that even if the primary locking mechanism is affected by offset, the holding device maintains the engagement through its geometric constraint design.
2Reliability
If the holding pin is made long to increase the engagement length, then the safety against disengagement is improved, but the holding pin may interfere with the closing motion of the convertible top
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of extending the holding pin length in the primary engagement direction, the solution creates a keyhole-shaped opening in the cowl that provides engagement in a different dimensional aspect. The geometric shape of the opening allows the holding pin to engage securely while accommodating the closing motion through its non-circular cross-section that permits rotation or lateral movement during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device incorporates dynamic characteristics through the keyhole-shaped opening that allows different degrees of freedom during the closing motion. The opening geometry enables the holding pin to move or rotate slightly during operation, adapting to the dynamic closing process while maintaining secure engagement in the locked position.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible top of a cabriolet adjustable between a closed position spanning a vehicle interior and a storage position opening the vehicle interior toward the top includes a forward rigid roof element. The roof element extends in the transverse direction of the convertible top and can be secured to a forward cowl by at least one lock arrangement in a closed position of the convertible top. The lock arrangement includes a locking hook adjustable between a locked position and an open position and which is engaged with a corresponding locking element in the locked position. A holding device ensures that the locking hook and the corresponding locking element remain engaged in the closed position of the convertible top and in the locked position of the locking hook if the cowl is offset with regard to the rigid roof element.