Removable Roof Module Structure for Lightweight Vehicle Bodies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sunroof solutions for vehicles compromise the power-to-weight ratio and require structural modifications to meet design standards, and existing removable sunroof systems are cumbersome for users.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle body structure with a partially removable roof module using aluminum components, featuring U-shaped interfaces, metal inserts, and toggle locks, allowing for easy conversion between fixed and removable roof configurations without altering the vehicle's structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex sunroof technologies are used to create opening roofs, then the vehicle can transform between fixed and opening configurations, but the weight increases and power-to-weight ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The roof is divided into modular components: a fixed roof module and removable panels that can be separately assembled and disassembled. The support structure includes multiple assembly plates distributed across the roof surface, allowing panels to be selectively positioned at different locations. This segmentation enables the opening roof function without requiring a completely different body structure, thereby maintaining the power-to-weight ratio while providing transformation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex sunroof technologies are used to create opening roofs, then the vehicle can transform between fixed and opening configurations, but the device complexity increases and requires structural modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly plates are designed with universal functionality to serve multiple purposes: they provide structural support for the fixed roof module, serve as mounting points for removable panels, and enable reversible assembly without requiring separate fixation mechanisms. The support structure with distributed assembly plates can accommodate different panel configurations (single panel, dual panels, or no panels), making the same base structure adaptable to various roof configurations without additional complexity.
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used to maintain power-to-weight ratio, then the vehicle achieves high performance, but the structural rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed roof module and support structure utilize composite material construction to achieve optimal strength-to-weight ratio. The assembly plates and support structure are designed to provide sufficient structural rigidity while maintaining lightweight characteristics, enabling the vehicle to meet both performance and structural requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
Arrangement (10) comprising a structure (1) of a body (2) of a vehicle (3), the structure (1) comprising in its upper part (11) stretchers (112, 113) connected to each other by cross members (114, 115), in particular front and rear cross members connected respectively to a windscreen (4) or a rear window (5), the structure (1) delimiting a single opening (116) intended to be closed by a fixed roof, in particular a roof made of composite material, or by a partially removable roof module comprising a support on which at least one removable panel is reversibly assembled, in particular two removable panels each comprising at least one means of attachment to the support.