Soft Top Cam Locking Mechanism for Position Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current soft top systems for vehicles face challenges in locking the soft top in the open/sunroof position and do not effectively manage fabric entanglement or interference with the frame mechanism, requiring considerable force for deployment and lacking secure latching in open positions.
Innovation Solution
A rearward-mounted locking lift assist assembly that uses a cam mechanism to lock the soft top in the open/sunroof position and allows selective rotation to an open/downward position, with a cam lockout to prevent unwanted rotation back to the sunroof position, and the ability to stow the soft top when desired.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manual soft top system is used without locking mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the soft top cannot be securely locked in open/sunroof position
Solution Approach 1:
A cam mechanism is introduced as an intermediary element between the soft top frame and the locking system. The cam translates the rotational motion of the frame into a locking action that secures the soft top in the open/sunroof position, providing reliable locking without requiring a complex multi-component system
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the soft top in the desired position through the cam's geometric design. Once the frame is rotated to the open position, the cam automatically locks into place without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems, achieving reliable locking through self-service
2Ease of operation
If considerable force is applied to deploy the soft top, then the soft top can overcome fabric entanglement, but the operator angle of attack becomes problematic and fabric management becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is positioned and configured to engage with the frame at a specific point that prevents fabric entanglement before it can occur during deployment. The locking geometry is designed to guide the frame through its motion path in advance, ensuring smooth operation without requiring excessive force
Solution Approach 2:
The cam acts as an intermediary that mediates between the operator's input force and the frame's motion. It translates and directs the force applied by the operator at a favorable angle, preventing fabric entanglement while maintaining ease of operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If the soft top is allowed to rotate freely to open/downward position, then greater open air experience is achieved, but the soft top cannot be securely held in position
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is designed to provide dynamic locking capability. It allows the frame to rotate freely to the open/downward position when needed, then automatically locks to hold the position securely. The same mechanism can also lock in the open/sunroof position, providing adaptability across multiple positions while maintaining stability
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
The solution provides secure locking and easy transition between positions, reducing the need for excessive force and preventing fabric entanglement, allowing for a more open air experience while maintaining the soft top's secure positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The locking mechanism is also selectively releasable by an operator to allow the soft top to be operably moved from the open/sunroof position to the open/downward, when desired, preferably, by moving the cam out of a locking position
Data Source
AI summary
A lift assist lock-down assembly for a soft top assembly, the lock-down assembly operably coupled to first and second bows selectively rotatable between an open/sunroof position and an open/downward position. A handle member is rotatable between unlocked and locked positions. A cam and a cam lockout selectively prevent the bows from rotating. When locked in a first position, the bows are prevented from rotating generally rearward/downward, thereby preventing the soft top assembly from moving into the open/downward position. When locked in a second position, the bows are prevented from rotating generally forward/upward, thereby generally preventing the soft top from bouncing or from moving into the open/sunroof position.