Modular Convertible Top with Segmented Roof Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Convertibles with soft tops often suffer from high background noise, which compromises driving comfort, and existing solutions fail to provide a flexible and cost-effective way to achieve different roof variants while maintaining noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A modular convertible top system featuring a rear window frame and multiple roof sections that can be configured with different sheet-like modules to create various roof variants, including a panorama roof, using a consistent top linkage and module carrier design, which includes a flexible covering for weather protection and noise reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a soft top is used in a convertible, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the background noise in the convertible interior becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The roof structure is divided into multiple sections (front roof section, central roof section, rear roof section) that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the patent to combine soft top simplicity with hard top noise reduction by selectively applying different materials to different sections, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and noise protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining flexible covering materials with rigid frame structures and optional transparent roof modules. This composite approach enables the roof to simultaneously achieve the simplicity and flexibility of soft tops while incorporating hard elements that reduce background noise, directly addressing the technical contradiction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different roof variants are implemented using conventional designs, then each variant requires separate complete roof structures, but this increases manufacturing costs and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal roof platform with standardized frame structures, linkage mechanisms, and module carriers that can accommodate multiple roof variants (fabric roof, transparent roof, panorama roof). This universal design allows different roof types to be produced using the same base components, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining high adaptability to customer preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The roof is segmented into standardized modules (front roof section, central roof section with module carrier, rear roof section) that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This modular segmentation enables flexible configuration of different roof variants while using identical parts across all variants, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If a modular system with identical parts is used, then cost-effectiveness increases, but the ability to provide different roof variants decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the roof into standardized modules that can be configured in different combinations to create various roof variants. This segmentation allows the use of identical parts across all variants while still providing customization, directly resolving the contradiction between cost-effectiveness and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configurational dimensionality by allowing the same physical modules to be arranged and configured differently to create distinct roof variants. This dimensional approach enables multiple roof types to be achieved using identical components, simultaneously improving cost-effectiveness while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible top for a convertible can be stowed in a rear region of the convertible. The top has a rear window frame and at least one roof section which, in the closed state of the top, is situated in front thereof in the direction of travel. At least one roof section and/or the rear window frame is/are each designed as a frame-like module carrier to which different sheet-like roof modules can be fitted in order to implement different roof variants.