Convertible Roof Panel Nesting for Compact Trunk Stowage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle roofs do not open efficiently, requiring fabric or complex parts that consume excessive cargo space and height clearance.
Innovation Solution
A convertible roof control mechanism with a curved arm, pistons, tracks, and a pushing mechanism, allowing the roof panels to slide into the trunk, utilizing motorized gears and actuators for secure and space-efficient opening and closing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional convertible roof mechanisms are used, then the roof can open and close, but the mechanism requires significant height clearance and consumes excessive cargo space
Solution Approach 1:
The roof panels are designed to nest within each other during the opening sequence. The front panel folds down and nests within the rear panel, which itself nests within the cargo area, creating a compact stacked configuration that minimizes space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from traditional vertical folding (requiring height clearance) to a horizontal sliding and nesting motion. The panels move laterally into the cargo area and stack vertically within the available depth, effectively changing the dimension of movement from height-based to depth-based
2Ease of operation
If conventional convertible roof mechanisms are used, then the roof can open and close, but the mechanism requires many complicated parts
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into single components. The sliding mechanism simultaneously performs the functions of support, guidance, and positioning. The nesting action combines folding, stacking, and securing operations into a single continuous motion sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding mechanism serves multiple purposes: it supports the roof panels during movement, guides their trajectory, positions them in the final nested configuration, and secures them in place. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function
3Shape
If fabric is used for the convertible roof, then the roof can fold compactly, but the mechanism still requires significant height clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism changes from vertical folding (requiring height clearance) to horizontal sliding followed by vertical nesting within the cargo depth. The panels slide horizontally into the cargo area first, then nest vertically within the available depth space, eliminating the need for external height clearance
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the vehicle roof to open and close compactly, optimizing cargo space and height clearance, while securely supporting the roof's weight and ensuring smooth operation.
Implementation Method 1
The front of the curved up arm lifted, the front of the curved arm has one or more motorized gears which after the front of the curved up is pivoted upwards spin and the teeth of the gears (or the grippiness of the grippy wheels) slide a track inside the front panel backwards
Implementation Method 2
pistons which slide out from the front of the front panel and lock into the rear of the windshield frame so as to secure the front panel of the roof to the vehicle and also to support the weight of the front panel and roof
Implementation Method 3
a curved arm which connects the front and rear panel, and where the arm pivots inside the front of the rear panel such that the front of the curved up arm lifted
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for vehicle object repositioning management, including door control mechanisms, rack control mechanisms, and roof control mechanisms, are provided.