Abstract: In automobile convertible tops using a tension cable to stretch the soft top and force the sides of the soft top close to the convertible top frame and weather seal, an improved cable sleeve is provided, wherein the cable sleeve is partitioned to form a narrower channel so as to further limit the movement of the sleeve and the soft top in relation to the tension cable to keep the lower side edges of the soft top downward against the soft top frame to create a better seal, and at the same time enhance the shape of the soft top by keeping it fully stretched and reducing shrinkage and upward movement of the soft top. In addition, by adding an intermediate layer of material to bond the cable sleeve to the soft top, direct stitching of the cable sleeve to the soft top will be avoided, thereby preventing water leakage through the stitching holes and enhancing the appearance of the soft top.

Abstract: A convertible top for an automobile includes a rear window of glass or the like connected to the top by a track linkage adapted to guide the rear window between deployed and stored positions as the top is raised and lowered. The convertible top comprises a fold-down frame supporting a fabric top material, and defining a rear panel with a rear window opening therein. The rear window has a lower margin hingedly connected to the rear panel along a lower edge of the rear window opening. The track linkage includes a pair of track members disposed at the laterally opposite side edges of the rear window and slidably coupled to the rear panel to permit pivoting movement of the rear window within a plane which is independent of the rear panel as the convertible top is raised and lowered.

Abstract: An improved hinge is provided for interconnecting window panes or the like, wherein the hinge is particularly adapted for use in a folding rear window of an automotive vehicle having a fold-down convertible top. The hinge comprises an elongated one-piece extrusion of flexible elastomer material shaped to define a back-to-back pair of generally U-shaped channel strips joined together by a short hinge segment along one side thereof. The channel strips are respectively secured with substantial bond area to adjacent edges of a pair of window panes, with the hinge segment acccommodating relatively free swinging movement of the panes betweeen a normal position lying generally in a common plane and a folded or stacked position for compact storage.

Abstract: An improved method and related apparatus are provided for making convertible top for automobiles and the like, wherein top deck and side quarter panels of fabric-based material cooperatively form rain gutters extending along the opposite sides of the top deck panel. The top deck and each side quarter panel for a convertible top are initially sewn together in overlying relation near one side margin whereupon the side margin is folded over with the side quarter panel folded back upon itself to define a pair of directly overlying side edge strips. This folded side margin is advanced through a folding fixture adapted to insert an elongated rod substantially into the base of the fold between the side edge strips of the side quarter panel. An adhesive material is applied between the side edge strips which are then pressed together to obtain a secure bond therebetween and to lock the rod in place.