Convertible Top Link Arrangement Minimizes Longitudinal Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible tops face challenges in minimizing longitudinal displacement when adjusting between operating and storage positions, especially in vehicles with roll cages and superstructures, leading to deep projection into the vehicle interior during storage.
Innovation Solution
The convertible top employs a link arrangement with a base link, four-joint mechanism, and backlite link arrangement, utilizing coupling links to control the displacement, allowing the convertible-top element to pivot rearward and downward, and incorporating a drive mechanism for efficient storage without offsetting the cassette.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the convertible-top cassette is adjusted between storage and operating positions using conventional link arrangements, then the convertible-top element can be positioned correctly, but the longitudinal displacement becomes excessive causing deep projection into the vehicle interior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling element that connects the base link and adjusting links through a coupling axis perpendicular to the plane formed by the base link and adjusting links. This three-dimensional coupling mechanism transforms the conventional planar link arrangement into a spatial mechanism, enabling the convertible-top element to achieve its positioning function with minimized longitudinal displacement along the vehicle's longitudinal axis.
2Ease of operation
If the convertible-top cassette is adjusted between storage and operating positions, then the convertible-top element can be positioned correctly, but the displacement occupies additional space behind the belt line
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing the coupling element with its coupling axis extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle, the patent redirects the motion path of the convertible-top element from a predominantly longitudinal trajectory to a more transverse and vertical trajectory. This dimensional change allows the element to be stored within the vehicle body without occupying additional space behind the belt line.
3Ease of operation
If a conventional link arrangement is used, then the convertible-top element can be adjusted, but the mechanism requires excessive space for the folding-top portion accommodation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element introduces a transverse dimension to the link arrangement, transforming it from a planar mechanism to a spatial mechanism. This allows the folding-top portion to be accommodated in a more compact configuration within the vehicle body, reducing the volume of the storage space required while maintaining the adjustment functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle convertible top having a link arrangement on both sides relative to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the convertible-top, link arrangement being mounted on a main bearing fixed, displaces a convertible-top element between a lifted operating position and a lowered storage position. Each link arrangement may have a base link, mounted on the main bearing; a four-joint arrangement having a first adjusting link and a second adjusting link are connected to the convertible-top element; and a coupling element, a component of the four-joint arrangement, to which the base link, the first adjusting link and the second adjusting link are hinged. The link arrangements each may have a backlite link arrangement having a first coupling link hinged to the coupling element, which can be connected to one of the adjusting links via a second coupling link to couple the four-joint arrangement to the backlite link arrangement.