Abstract: A latching system for securing the header of a convertible top frame to the windshield frame top piece including a pair of laterally spaced latching mechanisms operated by a central rotary handle, each mechanism having a striker bar reciprocated between a locking and release position by a crank actuated pull bar actuating the striker bar. The striker bar is received into a recess formed in a striker block fixed to the windshield frame top piece when the striker blade is moved to the locking position and these elements coact to draw the header down to be securely latched. As the striker bars are advanced, downwardly inclined guide tangs are inserted in an inclined pocket in the striker block. As the top frame is positioned atop the windshield frame, the tangs draw the header forward into proper forward alignment with the windshield frame top piece.

Abstract: A top frame for convertible automobiles is disclosed foldable so as to not require a reduced width rear seat. The top frame includes fore and aft spaced pillar members pivoted to a rear side rail on each side to form a linkage system moving a quarter window up and down with the top frame. The various pivot axes are skewed to produce outwardly spread folded side rails and pillar members to preserve the rear seat width. A secondary linkage system causes folding of the forward side rails and one of a plurality of frame bows. A cam mounting of the lower end of the forward pillar causes outward movement of the bottom of the quarter window as the frame is raised to achieve sealing of the quarter window.The quarter window inclination is reduced as the frame is lowered by the cam mounting as well as by an outward movement of the top of the quarter window caused by an angled pivot connection of the supporting forward pillar.

Abstract: A convertible top automobile is disclosed having a space for receiving the convertible top in the lowered position, in which a tail gate is provided, upwardly movable on a four bar linkage system, with support cylinders to afford unimpeded access to the receiving space through an end opening formed by the body portions.

Abstract: A tonneau cover mechanism is disclosed in manual and power-operated versions, the mechanism made up of an assembly of rigid panels configured to cover the convertible top storage space of a convertible automobile with the top either raised or lowered. The panel assembly includes a pair of inwardly movable side covers configured to cover side well regions of the storage space on either side of a passenger seat as well as the adjacent rear areas, and a main tonneau panel cantilevered from the upper edge of a hinged body panel defining the rear of the passenger compartment. The body panel hinge mount allows forward tilting motion which carries the main tonneau panel off the storage space and allows the convertible top to be raised or lowered. The side covers are also moved inwardly off the side well regions of the storage space upon tilting of the seat. Upon rearward tilting movement of the body panel, the panel assembly is repositioned overlying the storage space.

Abstract: A convertible top system for automobiles is disclosed including a rear convertible frame extending partially over the passenger compartment when raised, and a removable roof panel which may be emplaced between the windshield frame and the forward main bow of the rear convertible frame. The system allows either a fully or partially open top configuration for automobiles. The rear convertible frame is braced in the raised position by engagement with a hinged tonneau cover panel normally overlying the storage well, but which can be raised to allow movement of the convertible frame in and out of the storage well. Brace blocks move into engagement with knees formed on the lower ends of the frame main bow as the tonneau cover is pivoted down, and a selectively operable pull down and lock mechanisms act on pins connected to a rear bow to cause the rear bow to be compressed against and locked to the tonneau cover.

Abstract: A powered tonneau cover is disclosed made up of an assembly of rigid panels configured to cover the convertible top storage space of a convertible automobile with the top either raised or lowered. The panel assembly includes a pair of inwardly movable side panels configured to cover side regions of the storage space on either side of a passenger seat as well as the adjacent rear areas, a fixed center panel, and a pair of lapping panels each affixed to a side panel and extending over the center panel. The panel assembly is mounted to the upper edge of the seat, cantilevered to extend to the rear over the storage space. The passenger seat is pivotally mounted for powered tilting motion to carry the panel assembly forwardly and enabling access to the storage space allowing the convertible top to be raised or lowered. The side panels are moved inwardly by a drive mechanism to clear the side regions prior to tilting of the seat.

Abstract: A convertible top cover is disclosed formed of single piece seamless front and rear panels having adjacent edges secured along an intermediate top frame bow member extending across the passenger compartment. The front and rear panel adjacent edges are secured within a recess in the bow frame member by a retainer member fit into the bow frame member, with a exterior trim covering fit over the retainer member. The intermediate bow member extends alongside and immediately to the rear of the side glass on either side of the vehicle, and a projecting lip formed by a sandwiched sheet metal layer enclosed in the trim covering provides an aerodynamic fairing of the window seal to the rear panel. The separate front and rear panels are of different colored fabric to produce a two tone styling.

Abstract: A latching mechanism is disclosed for securing a convertible top frame header member to the windshield frame including individual spaced latching mechanisms, each having a post mounted to the header and, a tubular socket mounted to the windshield frame with a cam ring mounted over the socket and carrying a projection passing through a cam slot formed in the socket and a groove formed in the post, moving together the frame members upon rotation of the cam ring. The cam rings are each rotated by an attached lever member with a cover moving into a recess formed in the windshield frame in the latched position to provide a smoothly contoured exterior.

Abstract: A folding frame for convertible top motor vehicles which stows compactly so as to minimize loss of passenger compartment space, the frame formed by a pair of pillar members pivotally anchored in body spaces alongside the rear passenger compartment, each pillar member having a unitary side rail pivotally connected to its upper end and extending forwardly above and alongside the passenger compartment with the frame in the raised position. The connected pairs of pillar members and side rails define a side window opening, and support a plurality of bow members over which the top material is stretched to enclose the passenger compartment.