Convertible Top Drive Coupling for Load Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for accommodating convertible tops in motor vehicles are complex in terms of functional and structural design, and there is a need for simplification and improved load management to prevent damage from external loads.
Innovation Solution
A device with a coupling mechanism that automatically releases and re-establishes the drive connection to pivoting parts when a specific load is exceeded, using a multi-plate, friction, or slip clutch, and prestressed spring elements to prevent damage from external loads, while maintaining movement coupling between the pivoting parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coupling devices are provided between various elements of the top receiving device to transmit force or torque, then the components can be connected and forces transmitted, but the device becomes complex in terms of functional and structural design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the coupling function from multiple separate coupling devices and concentrates it into a single multi-plate friction clutch located between the drive device and the first pivoting part. This eliminates the need for multiple coupling devices throughout the top receiving device, thereby reducing functional and structural complexity while maintaining reliable force transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple coupling functions into a single multi-plate friction clutch mechanism. Instead of having separate coupling devices between various elements, one coupling device performs the force transmission function for the entire top receiving device, simplifying both the functional design and structural arrangement.
2Productivity
If the pivoting parts are rigidly coupled to the drive device, then the drive can reliably move the pivoting parts, but the device is vulnerable to damage from external loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the rigid coupling between the drive device and pivoting parts into a dynamic, controllable coupling through the multi-plate friction clutch. The clutch can automatically adjust its coupling state based on load conditions - maintaining reliable force transmission during normal operation while allowing slip or disengagement when external loads exceed predetermined thresholds, thus protecting the device from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a protective mechanism beforehand by designing the multi-plate friction clutch with a predetermined slip threshold. This clutch is configured to slip or disconnect when external loads exceed a predetermined magnitude, preventing damage to the drive device and pivoting parts before excessive forces can cause harm. The spring element provides preliminary cushioning against load shocks.
3Reliability
If multiple coupling devices are used throughout the top receiving device, then force transmission is ensured, but the structural design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force transmission function from multiple distributed coupling devices and consolidates it into a single multi-plate friction clutch positioned between the drive device and the first pivoting part. This single coupling device suffices to transmit the necessary forces throughout the entire top receiving device, eliminating unnecessary structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-plate friction clutch serves as a universal coupling device for the entire top receiving device, performing the force transmission function that would otherwise require multiple specialized coupling devices. This single component handles force transmission for the base part, first pivoting part, and second pivoting part, demonstrating multi-functionality that reduces overall device complexity.
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
The solution simplifies the functional and structural design, allowing for fully automatic pivoting between positions to form or not form a receiving space for the convertible top, while preventing damage from excessive loads and ensuring continuous movement coupling.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-plate, friction or slip clutch, via which the coupling between the drive and the first or second pivoting part can be released as required or temporarily
Implementation Method 2
one or more prestressed spring elements, which brace a drive-side coupling element associated with the coupling device against a coupling element on the pivoting part side associated with the coupling device
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (1) for receiving a convertible top of a motor vehicle, comprising: - a first pivoting part (2) which is pivotable between two pivoting positions and is mounted on a vehicle body, - a second pivoting part (3) which is pivotable between two pivoting positions and is mounted on a vehicle body, - a base part (4) which can be attached or is attached to both the first pivoting part (2) and the second pivoting part (3), and - at least one drive device (5) via which the two pivoting parts (2, 3) are connected and coupled in such a way that pivoting movements of the first pivoting part (2) induced by the drive device (5) result in pivoting movements of the second pivoting part (3) in particular in the opposite direction, or vice versa.