Abstract: A multi-position hardtop roof for a vehicle which is retractable between a coupe position enclosing the passenger compartment and a convertible position wherein the roof is stored within the rear deck of the vehicle. The roof is segmented into a front fixed panel incorporating the windshield, an intermediate panel and a rear panel. The intermediate panel of the roof is telescopically retractable onto the rear panel and both movable panels are thereafter retractable into the rear deck of the vehicle. From the coupe position, the intermediate roof segment can be tilted to a second venting position. Further retraction moves the intermediate segment rearwardly onto the rear roof segment to a targa position. Finally, the roof segments may be fully retracted to the convertible position. Two sets of piston/cylinder mechanisms control movement of the intermediate segment and the rear roof segment.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 10, 1990
Date of Patent:
January 7, 1992
Assignee:
C&C Incorporated
Inventors:
George W. Klein, Robert A. Patterson, Chad Himes
Abstract: An attachment to the support structure of a retractable convertible top for a vehicle which prevents the vinyl top material from becoming caught between the cross support bows of the structure. As a result, the storage stack height of the fully retracted roof is reduced. The invention consists of a pair of push-out attachments which are secured to opposite sides of the support structure directly to the cross bow. The push-outs are mounted to the bow using the existing screws of the structure and replace a cardboard spacer found on the structure. The opposite end of the push-out includes a slot which travels along the side power link. As the top is retracted, the push-out engages the vinyl material which tends to fold along with the structure and prevents the material from becoming caught between the bows. Once the top is fully retracted, the stack height is substantially reduced.