Convertible Top Panel Bow Inversion for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible vehicle tops with panel-bow designs have inefficiencies in storage position packaging, leading to unused space due to the stacked arrangement of panel bows, which is not ideal for space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The rear center bow is positioned below the rear window bow in the storage position, utilizing a drive element to pivot the rear center bow under the rear window bow, eliminating the need for additional structural space and allowing for a more compact storage configuration, with a tension bow and actuating linkages that enable efficient displacement and lifting motions to optimize space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the panel bows are arranged in a conventional stacked order (front bow, front center bow, rear center bow, rear window bow from top to bottom), then the top can be stored in a compact position, but unused space remains below the rear window bow, leading to inefficient package utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional stacked order of panel bows by positioning the rear center bow below the rear window bow instead of above it. This inversion allows the rear center bow to nest within the curvature of the rear window bow, eliminating unused space and optimizing vertical package utilization in the storage position.
2Ease of manufacture
If larger gaps are left between panel bows to accommodate fabric folds, then the top can be manufactured more easily, but the structural space required increases and package efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the stack order and allowing the rear center bow to nest within the rear window bow's curvature, the patent eliminates the need for additional fabric folds between these bows. This reduces the structural space required while maintaining ease of manufacture, as the fabric can be routed more efficiently without requiring extra accommodation space.
Data Source
AI summary
A top of a convertible vehicle is proposed, comprising a top cover and a top linkage which can be displaced between a closed position, in which a vehicle interior is covered, and a storage position, in which the vehicle interior is open toward the top, and which has a linkage arrangement on both sides with respect to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the top, each linkage arrangement comprising two main links, which are pivotably mounted on a main bearing fixed to the vehicle and one of which is driven by means of a main drive. Panel bows extend between the bilaterally arranged linkage arrangements, a first one of said panel bows being a front bow, a second one being a front center bow, a third one being a rear center bow and a fourth one being a rear window bow. In the storage position, the rear center bow is arranged below the rear window bow.