Convertible Top Rivet Noise Damping via Composite Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing folding top arrangements in convertibles generate unwanted noise due to metal-on-metal contact between rivet bolts or rivet nuts and bows or links, leading to uncomfortable cracking sounds for vehicle occupants.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hybrid component system where rivet bolts or rivet nuts, made of metallic material, are permanently connected to non-metallic components with noise-damping properties, such as plastic, to reduce noise during contact, and are produced using methods like cold extrusion or thixomolding for cost-effectiveness and improved mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal rivet bolts or rivet nuts are used to connect metallic bows and links, then the structural strength and reliability are ensured, but unwanted noise is generated due to metal-on-metal contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining metallic and non-metallic components in the rivet assembly. The rivet bolt or rivet nut is equipped with a non-metallic element (plastic coating, overmold, or insert) that contacts the metallic bow or link, creating a composite structure that maintains structural strength while reducing noise through the noise-damping properties of the non-metallic material.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a non-metallic component is added to the rivet bolt or rivet nut to reduce noise, then noise damping is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rivet fastening function with the noise-damping function into a single integrated component. The non-metallic element is combined with the metallic rivet body through methods such as coating, overmolding, or inserting, creating a unified rivet assembly that performs both structural connection and noise reduction without requiring separate noise-damping components.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a non-metallic component is added to reduce noise, then noise damping is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The non-metallic noise-damping element is integrated into the rivet manufacturing process itself, rather than being added as a separate assembly step. Through methods like coating during forming, overmolding in the same mold, or inserting pre-formed inserts, the noise-reduction feature is built into the rivet during primary manufacturing, avoiding additional assembly operations and reducing overall manufacturing costs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution effectively reduces noise pollution inside the vehicle by utilizing the damping properties of non-metallic materials while maintaining the strength and cost-effectiveness of metallic components, thereby enhancing the overall user experience and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
a non-metallic material which has noise-damping properties is arranged at the contact point between the rivet bolt or rivet nut and the bow or link
Data Source
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AI summary
Convertible top assembly for a convertible, wherein a convertible top can be moved into an open position and into a closed position, comprising a plurality of bows and links (11), wherein the bows and links (11) are movable relative to each other by means of a driven convertible top kinematics, and wherein a rivet bolt (1, 3) or a rivet nut (2) is arranged in at least one convertible top component, wherein the convertible top component is a first bow or a first link (11) or a body-fixed bearing point, which is designed as a mechanical stop for a second bow or a second link (11) which is movable relative to the convertible top component, wherein the rivet bolt (1, 3) or the rivet nut (2) and/or the second bow or the second link (11) are made of a metallic material, wherein the rivet bolt (1,3) or the rivet nut (2) and/or the second bow or the second link (11) has a non-metallic material at least at the contact point between the rivet bolt (1, 3) or the rivet nut (2) and the second bow or the second link (11).