Convertible Soft Top Tensioning Mechanism With Compact Overturning Linkage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing overturning structure for convertible soft tops in SUVs is complex and occupies a large space, limiting its compactness and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
An overturning and tensioning mechanism featuring a fixed connecting plate, a movable connecting plate with an arc-shaped groove, and a limiting baffle that allows the soft top to be rolled up efficiently, minimizing space usage by using an arc-shaped groove and baffle to secure the movable connecting plate in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a long bracket is used to rotatably connect the soft top with the vehicle body, then the soft top can be overturned and folded backward, but the structure becomes complex and occupies a large space
Solution Approach 1:
The overturning structure is segmented into multiple functional components: a first connecting plate fixed to the soft top, a second connecting plate fixed to the vehicle body, and a rotating connection between them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing the overall space required while maintaining the overturning function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a long bracket that extends outward to provide rotation, the invention inverts the approach by using a compact rotating connection between two connecting plates. The rotation axis is repositioned to minimize the space envelope, transforming the structure from an extended lever arm to a compact pivoting joint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex overturning structure is used to enable soft top to fold backward, then the soft top can be converted, but the structure occupies a large space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the overturning function, the connection function, and the limiting function into a single integrated structure. The rotating connection between the two connecting plates simultaneously provides the overturning motion, maintains structural connection, and includes a limiting mechanism to control the range of motion, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting plates and rotating joint serve multiple functions: they provide the mechanical connection between soft top and vehicle body, enable the overturning motion for convertible functionality, and incorporate a limiting mechanism to control the rotation range. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An overturning and tensioning mechanism includes a vehicle body, a soft top, a fixed connecting plate, and a movable connecting plate. An upper end of the vehicle body is provided with an opening, a connecting piece is fixed or integrally formed on the vehicle body, and the connecting piece is provided with an accommodating groove. The soft top is configured to cover the opening. The fixed connecting plate is fixedly connected with the soft top, and the fixed connecting plate is fixed on the vehicle body. The movable connecting plate is fixedly connected with the soft top. The movable connecting plate is provided with a support member. A head of the support member is provided with a matching portion matched with the accommodating groove of the connecting piece. An opening of the accommodating groove faces away from the fixed connecting plate.