Removable Vehicle Windows With Rotatable Latches for Easy Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing convertible tops require removal of heavy components, necessitating multiple people or special equipment, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A removable window system for vehicles featuring rotatable latches and handles with wave washers, and movable coupling elements with ball studs and push-button bonnets, allowing quarter-panel and rear windows to be easily removed and reinstalled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hard convertible tops are constructed as large rigid components, then protection against adverse weather conditions is provided, but the weight increases requiring multiple people or special equipment for removal
Solution Approach 1:
The convertible top system is divided into multiple separate window components (front windows, rear windows, quarter panels) that can be independently removed. Each window is a smaller, lighter segment rather than one large heavy component, allowing single-person removal while maintaining overall protection when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The retention features with rotatable latches are designed to universally secure multiple different window types (front, rear, quarter panels) using the same mechanism. This multi-functional design allows consistent easy removal and reinstallation across all window components without requiring different equipment
2Strength
If large rigid components are used for convertible tops, then structural strength is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring multiple people or special equipment
Solution Approach 1:
Breaking the convertible top into smaller window segments with individual retention features allows each component to be easily manipulated by one person. The segmented design maintains structural integrity when assembled while dramatically improving ease of operation during removal and installation
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable latch mechanism provides dynamic easy operation - the latch rotates between locked and unlocked positions with simple rotational motion. This dynamic mechanism allows quick release without requiring forceful manipulation or special tools, greatly enhancing ease of operation
3Ease of operation
If rotatable latches with wave washers are used in retention features, then ease of operation is improved for window removal, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wave washer is designed to automatically rotate with the handle rotation, converting the rotational motion directly into latch actuation without requiring additional linkages or mechanisms. This self-service design simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of operation - the wave washer serves both as a spacer and a motion-transmitting element
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle that includes a vehicle body defining a plurality of openings configured for receipt of a window, and a plurality of retention features that are configured to maintain the window in the opening and permit the window to be easily removed from the opening. The retention features include a rotatable latch that is configured to maintain the window in the opening. Rotation of the latch permits the window to be removed from the opening. A rotatable handle is coupled to the latch that is configured to rotate the latch. A wave washer is coupled to the handle between the handle and the latch, wherein rotation of the handle rotates the wave washer into and out of engagement with the latch to rotate the latch.