Abstract: A molded plastic window panel for automotive glazing in which texturized surfaces are molded into the perimeter of the panel to define a translucent masking border. A pattern of discrete texturized areas is adjacent a solid texturized band to provide a fade out effect. The window panel is molded from polycarbonate to block UV light transmission through the translucent masking border to protect an adhesive bond or seal used to seal the window panel in an automotive body window opening.

Abstract: A closure panel mounting for a window opening of a vehicle body structure includes a U-shaped three sided recess into which the panel is slidable, with a fourth side of the closure panel engaged by another closure panel included in the vehicle body structure. In a first embodiment the panel is slid vertically down into tracks extending along the recess, and a top panel has an edge engaging the fourth side of the panel. In a second embodiment, the recess tracks extend horizontally and the panel is slid into the recess from the rear, a vehicle tailgate engaging the end of the panel when swung closed to secure the closure panel in position.

Abstract: A molded plastic window panel and method for locating and guiding the window panel to a final position in a window opening in an automotive vehicle body structure, with locator guide features molded integrally in a window panel perimeter portion projecting toward corresponding complementary locator guide features on the body structures. The perimeter portion may be molded as an outer piece separate from a main transparent section with the locator guide features integral therewith, the outer piece bonded to the main section to form a unitary panel. The outer piece may be molded from an opaque plastic to provide a masking black out border and an adhesive joint used to permanently mount the window panel in the body structure window opening. The locator guide features may comprise resiliently deflectable elements such as fingers or tabs on one part engaging complementary features on the other part to urge the window panel into a properly located position on the body structure.

Abstract: A process and panel for fixed automotive glazing, the panel molded from polycarbonate, a UV radiation blocking hard coat deposited thereon, and a pigmented primer applied in a defined band extending about the perimeter. The hard coat protects the pigmented primer coating so that two separate coatings are not required.

Abstract: A method of handling molded plastic glazing panels during processing is disclosed, using one or more stabilizing handling tabs projecting outwardly from the perimeter of each panel, and which is molded at the same time as with the glazing panel itself is molded. Each tab has spaced apart bosses, each having through opening adapted to mate with pins projecting from a holder structure. Gussets may be molded into the bosses to control drip when the panel is coated with a liquid and to stiffen the bosses. The tabs enable stable positioning of the panel to avoid formation of optical flaws in the panels, and to facilitate compact vertical stacking of the panels during handling.