Convertible Roof Panel Folding for Compact Rear Storage
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable roof systems for super sports cars are hindered by space restrictions due to the rear engine design, compromising the vehicle's streamlined silhouette and performance.
Innovation Solution
A system that divides the roof into two portions, allowing them to be rotated and translated within a compact compartment, utilizing a movement unit with interconnected mechanical elements and actuators for fully automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a panoramic roof system is implemented, then the aesthetic appeal and perceived space are improved, but the risk of water infiltration and structural damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by implementing a multi-layer sealing system including primary seals, secondary seals, and drainage channels before water infiltration can occur. The sealing elements are pre-positioned to prevent water from reaching critical structural components, and drainage paths are established in advance to divert any water that penetrates the seal layers away from the vehicle interior.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the roof opening mechanism is made more complex to improve sealing, then water infiltration resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nested doll by implementing nested sealing layers where secondary seals are positioned within or alongside primary seal structures, and drainage channels are integrated within the sealing assembly. This nested arrangement provides multiple barriers against water infiltration while consolidating multiple functions into a compact integrated structure, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the roof panels are made larger to provide better coverage, then the protective function is improved, but the weight and structural stress increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible shells and thin films by using thin-film sealing elements and flexible gasket materials that provide effective water protection without adding significant weight. These thin-film solutions maintain the protective function of larger roof panels while minimizing the weight increase through optimized material selection and thin-film technology.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~8
AI summary
A method for opening and closing a retractable roof (10) of a convertible vehicle, wherein the roof (10) is made up at least of a first portion (10a) and a second portion (10b), connected to each other, the method comprising the following steps: - moving the first portion (10a) of the roof (10) relative to the second portion (10b) of the roof (10) between a first position and a second position, such that, at the first position, the first portion (10a) is at least partly superposed on the second portion (10b) and, at the second position, the first portion (10a) lies in substantially the same plane as the second portion (10b), - rotating the first portion (10a) and the second portion (10b) about an axis of rotation, and - translating the superposed first portion (10a) and second portion (10b) between a first position and a second position, such that, at the first position, the first portion (10a) and the second portion (10b) are inside a compartment (2) in the vehicle and, at the second position, the first portion (10a) and the second portion (10b) are outside the compartment (2).