Universal Side Stretcher for Sheet Metal and Glass Roofs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle body structures require modification to accommodate different types of roofs, such as sheet metal and glass, which increases manufacturing complexity and costs, limiting compatibility with various vehicle models.
Innovation Solution
The body structure features identical side stretchers with multiple support zones that can adapt to both sheet metal and glass roofs, allowing for secure mechanical connection using various fixing elements like glue or spot welds, eliminating the need for additional modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the body structure is modified to accommodate different roof types (sheet metal or glass), then the compatibility with various roofs is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The side stretcher is designed with multiple support zones that can accommodate both sheet metal roofs and glass roofs, making a single body structure universal for different vehicle models. The first support zone (with first fixing elements) and second support zone (with second fixing elements) enable the same component to perform different functions depending on the roof type, eliminating the need for separate body structures for each roof variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The side stretcher is segmented into distinct support zones with different fixing element configurations. The first support zone contains first fixing elements positioned at a first height, while the second support zone contains second fixing elements positioned at a second height. This segmentation allows selective activation of appropriate fixing zones based on the roof type being installed, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the body structure is systematically modified to adapt to different roof characteristics, then the compatibility with various roofs is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating separate modified body structures for sheet metal and glass roofs, the invention implements a universal side stretcher design that incorporates both first and second support zones. This single universal component can be used across different vehicle models and roof types, significantly reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for multiple specialized body structure variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The side stretcher design incorporates variable parameters (different support zones at different heights with different fixing elements) that can be selectively activated based on the roof type. This parameter-based approach allows the same base structure to adapt to different requirements without requiring complete redesigns, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional intermediate pieces are added to the body structure for glass roofs, then the compatibility with glass roofs is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of separate intermediate pieces into the integrated side stretcher structure itself. The side stretcher incorporates both the first support zone (for sheet metal roofs) and the second support zone (for glass roofs) as unified components, eliminating the need for additional separate intermediate pieces and reducing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a range of at least two types of motor vehicle, of which a first vehicle type comprises a sheet metal roof (21a, 21b) and a second type comprises a glass roof (21c), said vehicles each comprising a body shell structure having side rails (11) consisting of an outer wall (12) facing the outside of the vehicle and an inner wall (13) forming an interior lining, facing the inside of the vehicle, the side rails (11) being identical for both types of motor vehicle, and selectively forming a low second support zone (15b) for a longitudinal lateral edge (24) of the sheet metal roof (21b) of the vehicle of the first type, or a high first support zone (15a) for a lower face (27) of the glass roof (21c) of the vehicle of the second type.