Convertible Top Fold Section for Partial Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible vehicle tops do not allow for partial opening without pivoting the roof links, which limits design flexibility and increases costs due to continuous or one-piece seal requirements.
Innovation Solution
A top linkage mechanism with a fold section integrated between the front bow and deployment links, allowing partial opening without pivoting the roof links, and secured by a locking device, enabling cost-effective integration with minimal additional weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the top linkage is designed to allow partial opening, then the design flexibility and seal continuity are improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional fold section components
Solution Approach 1:
The top linkage is segmented into a fixed section (roof links) and a movable fold section (deployment links with front bow). This segmentation allows the fold section to be independently pivoted to create partial opening positions while the roof links remain stationary, enabling design flexibility without compromising the main structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment links are designed as dynamic components that can be pivoted relative to the fixed roof links. This dynamic element allows the top to transition between fully closed, partially opened, and fully open states, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through controlled movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If deployment links are added to enable fold section, then partial opening is enabled, but the weight of the top linkage increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the linkage into lightweight deployment links and fixed roof links, the patent enables partial opening functionality with minimal additional weight. The deployment links are designed as separate, slender components that add only the necessary mass for the folding function without requiring heavy reinforcement of the entire structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fold section is integrated into the top linkage, then partial opening without roof link pivoting is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The fold section is implemented as a separate, modular assembly of deployment links and front bow that can be manufactured independently and then integrated into the existing top linkage. This modular approach allows for standardized production of the fold section components, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to redesigning the entire linkage system.
Data Source
AI summary
Convertible top linkage arrangements on both of its two sides relative to the top's vertical longitudinal center plane pivotally mounted on a fixed main bearing, fastenable to a vehicle front wind apron by a front bow, connecting the arrangements to each other, both arrangements having a roof link whose front end reaches to the front wind apron in a closing position, the front bow fastenable to a deployment link on each side, the deployment link pivotally mounted on the respective roof link so that a fold section, which can be pivoted between a closing position, in which the deployment links extend along the roof links, and an opening position, in which the deployment links are pivoted with respect to the roof links, is formed by the front bow and the deployment link, the fold section taking its closing position with respect to the roof links when pivoting the top linkage.