Abstract: A decorative trim assembly and the process of manufacturing includes providing a clip, supplying an elongated metal bright strip, and inserting the clip inside the metal bright strip. Subsequently, bending the assembled bright strip with the clip along its longitudinal extent provides a final conformation of the structure. It is subsequently secured to a weatherstrip by snap-fit operation. The end customer maintains the ability to service the decorative trim piece independently of the weatherstrip system.

Abstract: A weatherstrip such as a glass run incorporates an associated anti-entrapment sensor. The glass run includes an elastomeric material having first and second legs interconnected by a base wall that together receive an associated automotive window peripheral edge and a recess formed in the elastomeric material dimensioned to receive the associated anti-entrapment sensor therein. The recess has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional cavity in one embodiment and the pinch sensor has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional conformation dimensioned for mating receipt in the T-shaped cavity. Facing, first and second flexible sidewall portions flex for ease of insertion and retention of the pinch sensor in the cavity. A fusible layer secures the weatherstrip and pinch sensor after assembly thereof. Preferably, the weatherstrip is formed from multiple materials, one of which is a low friction material.

Abstract: A decorative trim assembly and the process of manufacturing includes providing a clip, supplying an elongated metal bright strip, and inserting the clip inside the metal bright strip. Subsequently, bending the assembled bright strip with the clip along its longitudinal extent provides a final conformation of the structure. It is subsequently secured to a weatherstrip by snap-fit operation. The end customer maintains the ability to service the decorative trim piece independently of the weatherstrip system.

Abstract: A weatherstrip (30) for an automotive vehicle includes a rigid core (42) formed from a first material encompassed in an extrusion body (40) of an elastomeric material. A show surface (44), such as anodized metal or stainless steel, is roll-formed and then coextruded in a coextrusion die with the rigid core. A removable layer (94) protects an outer face (90a) the show surface during extrusion and post processing steps of manufacture. The integrated arrangement of the cosmetic strip reduces manufacturing and assembly costs, while providing the desired aesthetic appearance to the weatherstrip.

Abstract: A weatherstrip such as a glass run incorporates an associated anti-entrapment sensor. The glass run includes an elastomeric material having first and second legs interconnected by a base wall that together receive an associated automotive window peripheral edge and a recess formed in the elastomeric material dimensioned to receive the associated anti-entrapment sensor therein. The recess has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional cavity in one embodiment and the pinch sensor has a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional conformation dimensioned for mating receipt in the T-shaped cavity. Facing, first and second flexible sidewall portions flex for ease of insertion and retention of the pinch sensor in the cavity. A fusible layer secures the weatherstrip and pinch sensor after assembly thereof. Preferably, the weatherstrip is formed from multiple materials, one of which is a low friction material.

Abstract: A composite structure finds particular use as a weatherstrip on a motor vehicle. The weatherstrip includes a first material such as rubber, EPDM or thermoplastic that exhibits flexibility, and a second, hard, low friction material applied over portions of a surface of the rubber. In a preferred arrangement, the low friction material is coextruded with the first material in spaced rows that allow the weatherstrip to flex in regions where no second material is applied. An increased thickness of low friction material is applied thereby improving wear characteristics without impacting flexibility.

Abstract: A below belt channel includes a rigid body formed into a generally C-shaped channel having a base and first and second outwardly extending legs. Seal lips formed from a thermoplastic, such as a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), are co-extruded on outer ends of the channel legs and extend inwardly toward an interior of the channel. A low friction material is preferably provided along an interior surface of the channel base, and the seal lips may also include an extra low-friction material on the outwardly facing surfaces that contact the window glass. In one embodiment, the rigid body is either aluminum or steel and may be coated to enhance the bond with the co-extruded TPV lips, and/or provide corrosion protection. In another embodiment, the rigid body is covered in polypropylene, and a mounting bracket for supporting the channel is formed of a molded material that is compatible with the polypropylene. The molded material is then welded or fused to the body to provide a secure interconnection.

Abstract: A flange cover for attachment to a vehicle includes a core member having a plurality of apertures therein. An elastomeric skin is disposed about the core member. Within the elastomeric skin is a longitudinally extending hollow cavity having an interior and an exterior edge, the interior edge being located between the core member and the exterior edge. A longitudinally extending rib projects from the exterior edge of the hollow cavity toward the interior edge of the hollow cavity.