Abstract: An actuation mechanism for a two piece retractable hard-top roof that interfaces with an automobile body assembly, the retractable hard-top roof having a forward roof component and a rearward roof component which are selectively conjoinable, wherein the actuation mechanism and its associated framework are not located in the passenger compartment, being generally located in a stowage compartment, and wherein a minimal fore-aft dimension is needed to accommodate storage of the retractable hard-top roof. The actuation mechanism is microprocessor controlled, and the rearward roof component is affixed at its rear end to the actuation mechanism.

Abstract: A checking gage model for quality control use in a production plant, as for example, an automobile plant, for checking mating parts of a car body. The checking gage model includes a frame made from a tubular lightweight material on which is mounted structural filler material that is pre-formed roughly to the desired final configuration. The filler material is shaped, by machine or hand method, to an undersize condition of the desired final shape. At least one layer of industrial type textile woven fibers and resin is then applied on the filler material to encapsulate the same. A surface coat of resin is then added over the textile fibers to a depth to make the contours oversize in the contoured areas of the model. The model is then worked by machine or hand method to form the final shape of the model.