Top And Window Combination Patents (Class 296/107.07)
  • Patent number: 7740302
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a movable roof with a cover and whose front end can be secured indirectly or directly to the windshield frame. The roof, in its open position, can be stowed in the rear vehicle region. The roof has a rear region in the closed position with at least one rigid cross member and can be turned upside down and disposed on top of a part of the movable roof region adjoining it to the front in the direction of travel (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Udo Heselhaus
  • Patent number: 7726721
    Abstract: A displaceable roof in a vehicle, in particular a folding top in a motor vehicle, with a front first roof section for connecting to the frame of the windshield of the vehicle, a second roof section disposed after it, and two link configurations which are mounted on both sides of the center of the vehicle, connect the roof sections to each other. The link configurations contain at least two links which couple the two roof sections to each other in such a manner that the first roof section moves over the second roof section during closing or opening of the roof. The roof link configurations are mounted on both sides of the center of the vehicle in bearings fixed on the vehicle body and are articulated on the second roof section. Each roof link configuration is coupled to a link of the link configuration disposed on the same side of the vehicle, for the purpose of displacing the roof sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Mathias Fröschle
  • Patent number: 7712817
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle has a movable roof with a rearward roof part closed divided into a middle region including a rear window and two lateral outer regions. The middle region is upwardly displaceable with respect to the outer regions during the opening of the roof. The movable roof is configured such that the top end of the middle region is connected to the forward roof part, which is held above the rearward roof part when the roof is open. The lower region of the middle region is connected to a movement linkage to move this region upwardly relative to the outer regions during the opening of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Wilheim Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Meinert
  • Patent number: 7703827
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle (1) having a hatchback (h1) that is movable in at least one position of a rear window (H4), wherein the rear window (H4) can be separately moved from its closed position in the areas (H2, H3) surrounding the hatchback (H1) and opposite thereto into a release position, wherein the rear window (H4) can be stored in an area in the vehicle body (6) that is spaced from the hatchback (H1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventors: Winfried Bunsmann, Olaf Weissmüller, Udo Heselhaus
  • Publication number: 20100072776
    Abstract: A vehicle body includes, but is not limited to a frame and a roof held above the frame so as to be movable between a closed configuration in which it covers a passenger compartment and an open configuration in which the passenger compartment is uncovered. The passenger compartment has at least one door. At least one pair of pillars is mounted to the frame to the rear of the door for supporting the roof in its closed configuration. The roof is adapted to assume an intermediate configuration between its open and closer configurations in which the roof is spaced apart from said pillars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Taras Czornyj, Martin Johannsson
  • Publication number: 20100019531
    Abstract: A roof opening and closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a cover member opening and closing mechanism including a front side opening and closing mechanical unit, a rear side opening and closing mechanical unit, and an intermediate support unit connecting the front side opening and closing mechanical unit and the rear side opening and closing mechanical unit, a panel moving mechanism including a panel member and a panel movement mechanical unit, the panel member covering a portion of a vehicle body in a case where a roof is in a stored state, the portion of the vehicle body being positioned at a lower end of a rear corner portion of the roof when the roof is in a developed state, and the panel movement mechanical unit supporting the panel member to be moved to the storage compartment in a case where the roof is in the deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroyuki NODA, Katsura INOUE
  • Patent number: 7651152
    Abstract: A top for a convertible has a rear window frame, at least one roof section placed in front of it in the direction of travel when the top is closed, and a lateral top linkage. When the top is closed, a further roof section which is connected to the top linkage in an articulated manner and can be driven by the latter is provided between a front roof section and the rear window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Dominik Beierl, Felix Hermann, Lars Schulz, Reiner Armbruster
  • Publication number: 20100001549
    Abstract: A top for a convertible, which has a rear window frame with a rear window and, in the closed state, at least one roof section situated in front of the rear window frame in the direction of travel. When there are two roof sections which are adjacent to each other when the top is closed, a respective extension, which is extended to the rear or front, is formed on the lateral border regions of one of the roof sections. The extension being configured as a seal carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Felix Hermann, Dominik Beierl, Lars Schulz
  • Publication number: 20090289468
    Abstract: The invention relates to a convertible top for a convertible vehicle, comprising a convertible top material having a cutout, a profile part, and a window element, the profile part comprising a first connecting region and a second connecting region, wherein the first connecting region is assigned to the window element and wherein the second connecting region is assigned to the convertible top material, wherein a first adhesive layer is substantially encompassed by the first connecting region and the window element, said first adhesive layer defining a first adhesive connection between the window element and the profile part. A convertible top for a convertible vehicle which has an improved connection to a window element is provided in that the profile part is connected to the second connecting region of the convertible top material using a stitched connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Edscha Cabrio-Dachsysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Pecho, Karl-Heinz Kaiser
  • Patent number: 7600804
    Abstract: A foldable vehicle top contains a top cloth and a rear window. The rear window has an outer border with a window mount to which the top cloth is fastened. A frame is provided which, in a closed position, supports the top cloth and the rear window. The frame has a recess in which the window mount is accommodated in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Mathias Fröschle
  • Patent number: 7597379
    Abstract: A collapsible top for a convertible can be stowed in a rear region of the convertible. The top has a rear window frame and at least one roof section which, in the closed state of the top, is situated in front thereof in the direction of travel. At least one roof section and/or the rear window frame is/are each designed as a frame-like module carrier to which different sheet-like roof modules can be fitted in order to implement different roof variants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Dominik Beierl, Harald Biersack
  • Publication number: 20090127885
    Abstract: An electrical contact mechanism adapted to be mounted to a retractable mechanism including a supporting mechanism for extending a roof and a rear window and stowing the roof and the rear window in a stowage space, includes a first member rotating in conjunction with the supporting mechanism, a first contact mounted to the first member, a second member connected to the first member and rotating relative to the first member in conjunction with the supporting mechanism, and a second contact mounted to the second member, wherein electric power is supplied to an apparatus mounted to at least one of the roof and the rear window by connecting the first contact with the second contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Tsutomu Tanoi, Yusuke Kokubo
  • Publication number: 20090108623
    Abstract: The invention relates to a top for a convertible, comprising a front bow, a first surface bow, a second surface bow, and a main link mechanism being adapted to displace the front bow, the first surface bow and the second surface bow with respect to a body-mounted main bearing unit in order to open or to close the top, wherein the main link mechanism comprises a main pillar and a main link, wherein, when the top is closed, the front bow, the first surface bow and the second surface bow cover an interior space of the convertible, wherein the first surface bow is arranged between the front bow and the second surface bow, wherein a first supporting link connects the second surface bow in an articulated manner to the main pillar, and wherein a second supporting link connects the second surface bow in an articulated manner to the main link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: Edscha Cabrio-Dachsysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Haberl, Georg Kopp
  • Patent number: 7520556
    Abstract: A retractable vehicle roof system for a vehicle having a rearward storage space includes a roof portion movable between a closed position and an open position. The roof portion is located above a body of the vehicle and proximate the rearward storage space when in the closed position. A lid is located above the rearward storage space when the roof portion is in the closed position. The lid is configured to descend into the storage space as the roof portion moves to the open position above the lid while substantially preserving a side profile of the vehicle and permitting storage space access. The roof portion is located above the lid when the roof portion is in the open position. A glide control arrangement is operatively connected to the lid and configured to direct motion of the lid when the roof portion moves between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Jay Martin
  • Publication number: 20090091155
    Abstract: A convertible top for a vehicle is disclosed that includes an inverted U-shaped rear window frame that defines an opening for a rear window. The rear window may be connected on its upper edge by a hinge to a rear window frame. Alternatively, a rear window may be retracted into a tailgate of a vehicle. The flexible cover material is secured to the rear window frame and a tailgate cooperates with the rear window and extends between the two lower ends of the rear window frame. The rear window is openable relative to the rear window frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: MAGNA CAR TOP SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventor: Stephen P. Rawlings
  • Patent number: 7513551
    Abstract: The present invention provides a movable closeout device or closeout panel for a convertible roof that attaches to the rear bow of the roof and moves up and down with the rear bow as the convertible roof retracts or extends. The closeout device may be a substantially rigid panel such as a parcel shelf, or may be a flexible or elastic panel. The movable closeout device attenuates noise entering the vehicle interior from the trunk and improves vehicle appearance by substantially closing out the area between the rear seat and the roof stowage area of the trunk when the convertible roof is in the up position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Sansome
  • Patent number: 7510231
    Abstract: An automotive convertible top is provided having a side bow which in a storage position is placed on top of a forward folding backlite bow. In a preferred embodiment, the convertible top stores on top of a rear storage area of a vehicle in a small space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Magna International
    Inventors: Stephen J. Lewis, Duane C. Junkin, Keijo Johannes Huotari
  • Patent number: 7500709
    Abstract: A folding top for a convertible vehicle comprises a rigid rear window assembly (24) and a top framework with side frame parts (10, 12, 14, 40) for supporting a roof covering (16), which parts are at least partially retractable into a rear portion (29) of the vehicle. At least a rear area of the roof covering, which is affixed to the rear window (26) and to the rearmost side frame part (40), is made of a flexible material. The rearmost side frame part is connected via a linkage (44, 50, 54, 56) with the rear window assembly such that the distance between the rearmost side frame part and the side edge of the rear window passes through a maximum shortly before reaching the fully closed position of the folding top, whereby the tensioning of the flexible material counteracts against an opening of the folding top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Udo Heselhaus
  • Patent number: 7481481
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle with a roof having a roof covering and several lateral frame parts, which at least partially span the roof covering when roof is closed and follow each other in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, in which a rear frame part extends from a window parapet line with an upward extending component. The adjacent frame part, preceding the rear frame part in the direction of travel when the roof is closed, can be moved without a force transfer through the rear frame part by at least one drive provided for roof opening, and the rear frame part is suspended on a gear mechanism that transfers the drive force and can be moved by it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Nils Kreiling
  • Publication number: 20080296925
    Abstract: A retractable hardtop for a vehicle is disclosed that includes a unitary roof panel, an active rear window and a four bar link. The four bar link includes a pair of buttress panels and a pair of rear rails that are connected to the roof panel and the vehicle. No structural members of the retractable hard top interconnect the lower portion of the buttress panels or the rear rails between the pivot connections to the roof and the pivot connections to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: MAGNA CAR TOP SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Robert E. Fallis, III, Michael T. Willard, Robert D. Wiechowski
  • Publication number: 20080290687
    Abstract: A method of attaching a glass window to an auto soft top by positioning a ring around a window opening in the soft top and wrapping an edge of the window opening around at least a portion of the ring. An adhesive is positioned between the edge portion of the ring and the soft top and the glass window is positioned over the ring and secured thereto by an adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Martin Brown, Neshan Markarian, John Bath
  • Publication number: 20080277962
    Abstract: A stowable roof configuration for a convertible has a main link with at least two arms and is able to move about a main bearing and, a main roof element, which is connected to the main link by first joints. At least one additional roof element is disposed behind the main roof element in a closed position of the roof configuration and is connected to the main link by or in second joints. A connecting rod system is provided for connecting to the additional roof element. The connecting rod system and the additional roof element along with the main link form an at least five-member coupler mechanism, in which the second joints for the additional roof element lie between the main bearing and the first joints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Dominik Beierl
  • Publication number: 20080265609
    Abstract: Removable cab components and a removable cab assembly for a vehicle. A durable cab assembly is provided, which generally includes a roof, a windshield and a rear panel that is removably attachable to the vehicle. In certain embodiments, the roof, windshield and rear panel are separate components, each separately removably attachable to the vehicle. In certain embodiments, each component of the cab assembly is removably attachable to the roll cage of the vehicle without comprising the integrity of the roll cage. The attachment and detachment of the cab assembly can be carried out manually, by a single person, in a short period of time, without requiring separate tools. The invention is also directed to the windshield, roof and rear panel as individual components adapted for quick attachment/detachment to a vehicle, and a method of attaching or detaching cab components or a cab assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Gary N. Orrell, Michael A. Orrell, Martin Robinson, Jeremy Cirota
  • Patent number: 7434865
    Abstract: A soft top roof for a vehicle includes a top cover with a window pane. A fastening section borders at least part of the window pane. A clamping part clamps the top cover to the fastening section in order to connect the top cover and the window pane. The clamping part has a hollow space into which a portion of the top cover projects. A casting mass within the hollow space holds the portion of the top cover projecting into the hollow space such that the casting mass fixes the top cover to the fastening section and thereby connects the top cover to the window pane by material bonding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Car Top Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Konrad Herz, Guenter Kretzmer
  • Patent number: 7429071
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle with at least one front roof area, having a flexible covering in the direction of travel, and a rigid roof area, including a rear window. The front roof area includes several lateral frame parts lying one behind the other, which can be folded opposite to each other, at least in the essentially horizontal axes, and can be covered by the rear roof area in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Meinert
  • Publication number: 20080203758
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cabriolet vehicle (1) comprising a roof which can be stowed away in the rear of the vehicle, wherein, when the roof is closed, an area which, in the direction of travel (F), is considered as the rear roof part (7) and an area below a rear window (4) is at least partially covered by a rear-window shelf-type cover (8), said cover being lowered when the roof is opened. According to the invention, the cover (8), relative to the vehicle cross-direction, has an intermediate part (9) and lateral outer parts (10) which are folded in, when the roof is closed, relative to the intermediate part (9) into an at least approximately opposite position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2005
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: WILHELM KARMANN GMBH
    Inventor: Franz-Ulrich Brockhoff
  • Publication number: 20080185867
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle has a vehicle body with a passenger compartment, a convertible roof receiving space, and a baggage space defined therein. A convertible roof has a rear part with a rear window. The convertible roof has a closed position wherein it extends over the passenger compartment and an open position wherein the convertible roof is at least partially received in the roof receiving space. A tailgate at least partially covers the baggage space and has an open position and a closed position. The tailgate is movable to the open position to define a loading opening for baggage. The rear window is automatically pivoted upwardly to provide an additional loading opening for baggage when the roof is in the closed position and the tailgate is moved to the open position to provide the loading opening for baggage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Tobergte, Markus Grave
  • Patent number: 7404587
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a roof having at least one part which can be moved as a whole between an opened position and a closed position and which, in the closed position, extends between an area near a wind shield frame and a rear rigid roof part. The rear rigid roof part includes two lateral tips which, when the roof is closed, are overlapped on their upper side by frame parts which can be moved upward to create an opening for the passage of the movable roof part. The roof has a rear window which is mounted relatively far towards the front so that the rear window is not window is not moved upwardly when the frame parts are moved upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Franz-Ulrich Brockhoff
  • Publication number: 20080157558
    Abstract: The invention relates to a convertible vehicle with a rear window, which is surrounded on its side by flexible covering areas and which can move relative thereto. In order to ensure a sealing between the covering areas and the rear window, a flexible and tensible cloth loose section is provided, which is frequently also designated as a water pocket. The inventive convertible vehicle is designed in such a manner that the cloth slack section is fastened at the bottom to a cloth retainer engaging underneath the rear window, and the cloth retainer has, for retaining, a retaining opening that is passed through by a portion of the cloth slack section. In addition, the cloth slack section comprises a thickened edge stop at its edge, which is located toward the inside with regard to the vehicle transversal direction and which faces the lateral edge of the rear window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventors: Heiner Bensmann, Heiko Pohlmann, Holger Plettendorf
  • Patent number: 7392873
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle has a carbody and a foldaway top connected to the carbody. A top compartment receives the foldaway top when folded open. A top compartment lid is provided for closing the top compartment. A hinge device is connected to the carbody and to the top compartment lid so that the top compartment lid is pivotable relative to the carbody. The top compartment lid has a front end interacting with a locking device in the area of a lateral side rail for locking it on the side rail by a push-pivot movement; it is released by a reverse movement. A lifting drive acting on the top compartment lid is supported on the carbody spaced from the hinge device and is pivotably connected to the top compartment lid. The top compartment lid is pivotable in the area of the hinge device relative to support part of the hinge device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Norbert Habacker
  • Patent number: 7380875
    Abstract: A system for suspending a rigid panel in an opening formed in a barrier structure comprises a sleeve of flexible material having an anchor portion attachable to the perimeter of the opening and a grip portion opposite the anchor portion. The grip portion is contoured so as to form a channel disposed between an anterior extension and a posterior extension of the grip portion. Each of the anterior extension and the posterior extension comprises a fold of the flexible material having an apex at its inner end. A first elongated tensioning member received within the apex of the anterior extension and a second elongated tensioning member received within the apex of the posterior extension. The edges of the panel are received within the channel and the first and second elongated tensioners may be made sufficiently taut to prevent easy removal of the panel from the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: James R. Stahl
  • Publication number: 20080116711
    Abstract: A pickup bed cover which utilizes four folding leg assemblies which are connected to the bed of the truck. On each side of the truck bed, two leg assemblies unfold and fold in unison to raise and lower each side of the cover. The cover can be raised from either side, or raised on both sides at once. The present invention includes internal locking means and a self-aligning means for said internal locking means. Further improvements are a bed mounting mechanism that allows the invention to be fitted to pickups with varying bed dimensions and a mechanism to isolate the cover from the damaging effects of bed flexing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: Gary Thacker
  • Patent number: 7367611
    Abstract: An upper end of a link is attached to a roller shaft of an upper guide roller provided in an upper part of a front window for opening and closing a front opening of a cabin. A lower end of the link is provided with a wire retaining pin that moves in a wire guide rail. One end of an assist wire connected to a spring at the other end is connected to the wire retaining pin. Thus, in a window-closed state, tension acts on the front window as a pressing force for pressing the front window forward, and when the front window is to be opened, the tension acts through the link on the front window as an assisting force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tokuo Fujii, Hideki Ookubo
  • Patent number: 7347481
    Abstract: A vehicle roof of a convertible with at least one front roof part, a rear roof part that is movable between a closed position over the vehicle interior and an open position in which it is stowed in a rear stowage space, and a rear window which is pivotably supported on the rear roof part. In the open position in the stowage space, the window is raised relative to the rear roof part. For improved actuation of the rear window, a holding mechanism keeps the rear window in its closed position on the rear roof part and when the rear roof part is being stowed, releases the rear window to swing relative to the rear roof part. A support is located in the stowage space and supports the rear window while the rear roof part is lowered into its stowage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Open Air Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Schuett, Fritz Wegener
  • Patent number: 7344180
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle includes a roof having roof parts including a rear roof part. The roof is movable between a closed position in which the parts cover the vehicle and a stored position in which the parts are stacked within a storage compartment of the vehicle. A trunk lid opens and closes the compartment. The rear roof part includes C-pillars on respective sides of the vehicle and a window. The window is independently movable from the rear roof part between a normal position in which the window lies between the C-pillars and a raised position in which the window lies outside of the rear roof part. An adjusting device connected between the rear roof part and the window moves the window between the normal and raised positions. A storage shelf connected to the trunk lid extends below the rear roof part into the vehicle when the roof is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Car Top Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Halbweiss, Robert Koschien
  • Publication number: 20080061593
    Abstract: A top for a convertible has a rear window frame, at least one roof section placed in front of it in the direction of travel when the top is closed, and a lateral top linkage. When the top is closed, a further roof section which is connected to the top linkage in an articulated manner and can be driven by the latter is provided between a front roof section and the rear window frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Dominik Beierl, Felix Hermann, Lars Schulz, Reiner Armbruster
  • Publication number: 20080061585
    Abstract: A top for a convertible has a linkage with which a plurality of roof sections can be displaced between a closed position and an open position. The rearmost roof section is configured as a rear window frame, and the linkage has a control link which is mounted pivotally on a bracket which can be fastened or is fastened to the vehicle. The linkage has a clamping hoop and a coupling linkage for controlling the kinematics of the rear window frame, said coupling linkage having a front coupling link and a rear coupling link which are mounted pivotally on the clamping hoop and on the rear window frame. In order to stabilize the top in its end positions, for the rear coupling link, there is formed on the clamping hoop a front stop against which the rear coupling link bears when the top is closed, and a rear stop against which the rear coupling link bears when the top is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Dominik Beierl, Felix Hermann, Lars Schulz, Wolfgang Braun
  • Publication number: 20080061586
    Abstract: A collapsible top for a convertible can be stowed in a rear region of the convertible. The top has a rear window frame and at least one roof section which, in the closed state of the top, is situated in front thereof in the direction of travel. At least one roof section and/or the rear window frame is/are each designed as a frame-like module carrier to which different sheet-like roof modules can be fitted in order to implement different roof variants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Dominik Beierl, Harald Biersack
  • Publication number: 20080061584
    Abstract: A top for a convertible, which has a rear window frame with a rear window and, in the closed state, at least one roof section situated in front of the rear window frame in the direction of travel. When there are two roof sections which are adjacent to each other when the top is closed, a respective extension, which is extended to the rear or front, is formed on the lateral border regions of one of the roof sections. The extension being configured as a seal carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Felix Hermann, Dominik Beierl, Lars Schulz
  • Publication number: 20080061594
    Abstract: A foldable vehicle top contains a top cloth and a rear window. The rear window has an outer border with a window mount to which the top cloth is fastened. A frame is provided which, in a closed position, supports the top cloth and the rear window. The frame has a recess in which the window mount is accommodated in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Mathias Froschle
  • Patent number: 7325857
    Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable car roof, comprising several rigid roof elements that can be moved between a position in which they cover the passenger compartment of the vehicle and a position in which they are stored in the vehicle's rear luggage compartment. This roof comprises the following: at least one rear central roof element (5) and one front central roof element (6); rear (7) and front (8) lateral roof elements; the rear central roof element articulated to the chassis of the vehicle around a first transverse axle (9) and the front central roof element articulated to the rear central roof element around a second transverse axle (10); the rear lateral elements articulated to the chassis and the front lateral elements articulated to the rear lateral roof elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Seba—Societe Europeenne de Brevets Automobiles
    Inventors: Gérard Queveau, Paul Queveau, Jean-Marc Guillez
  • Publication number: 20070284911
    Abstract: A soft top roof for a vehicle includes a top cover with a window pane. A fastening section borders at least part of the window pane. A clamping part clamps the top cover to the fastening section in order to connect the top cover and the window pane. The clamping part has a hollow space into which a portion of the top cover projects. A casting mass within the hollow space holds the portion of the top cover projecting into the hollow space such that the casting mass fixes the top cover to the fastening section and thereby connects the top cover to the window pane by material bonding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: MAGNA CAR TOP SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Konrad Herz, Guenter Kretzmer
  • Patent number: 7300094
    Abstract: A hardtop convertible vehicle has a front roof part, a central roof part and a rear roof part that includes C-pillars and a rear window. The roof parts are connected to one another in an articulated manner and are movable between a closed roof position and an open roof position by means of a displacing device. In the open roof position, the roof parts are located in a trunk of the vehicle, with the rear roof part and the central roof part lying one above the other. The rear window of the rear roof part is mounted in an articulated manner in relation to the C-pillars of the rear roof part such that it is pivoted in relation to the C-pillars during the movement of the roof parts between the closed roof position and the open roof position and assumes a position with its curvature in the same direction as the central roof part. In the open roof position, the front roof part lies outside the rear roof part and the central roof part, either along a backrest or along a motor vehicle tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Bernhard Schenk
  • Patent number: 7234754
    Abstract: The present invention is a window system for convertible motor vehicles that incorporates the use of woven fabric made from vinyl coated polyester yarn in such a way that it (1) reduces the “greenhouse effect” that occurs when the soft-covering system is on the vehicle, whether the window is open or not (2) reduces the harmful unwanted effects the sun can have on the driver, the passengers and the interior of the passenger compartment, (3) reduces the airflow that occurs when the vehicle is driven with one or more flexible windows down, (4) makes it more difficult for a passerby to see into the passenger compartment, while still allowing an occupant to see the outside from inside the passenger compartment and (5) protects the flexible window from being scratched or otherwise damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Edwin Evans
  • Patent number: 7198317
    Abstract: An adjustable vehicle roof has a flexible cover supported by a cover rod assembly that may be moved between a raised position and a stored position. The cover rod assembly includes a first arch and a second arch. A rigid rear window is integrated into the cover material. The rear window is stored between the first support element and the second support element in the stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: CTS Fahrzeug-Dachsysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Phillip Reck
  • Patent number: 7156446
    Abstract: A convertible motor vehicle first and second storage compartments extending transversely behind a seat. A rigid roof shell has two posts defining a rear opening. The first compartment extends laterally forward past the seat. Guide rails extend laterally in the first compartment forward past the seat. Respective guide slides on the rear end posts ride on the guide rails, and the roof shell is displaceable along the guide rails between an up position wholly out of the first storage compartment and a down position wholly in the first compartment with the guide slides laterally flanking the seat. A rear windshield fits in the opening between the posts. A guide in the second storage compartment displaces the rear windshield between a lowered position in the second compartment and a raised position fitting between the rear end posts of the windshield in the up position thereof and closing the rear opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Petros Perakis
  • Patent number: 7134708
    Abstract: A convertible having a roof is provided with stiff parts, at least one rear roof part, and an upper roof part, which is mounted in front of the rear roof part relative to the direction of travel in the closed state and is located above a passenger area. The upper roof part of the convertible encompasses an at least substantially transparent plate member which can be displaced counter to the direction of travel like a sliding roof; is held parallel to a rear window that is embraced by the rear roof part in the open position thereof; and can be moved along with the roof in the parallel position in order to be opened and closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Russke
  • Patent number: 7118160
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a convertible roof system for an automotive vehicle includes a convertible roof that covers the vehicle essentially from a front header to a rearmost body panel. A further aspect of the present invention provides a forward top stack linkage mechanism, which when actuated, moves a forwardmost roof bow in such a manner that a surface of the roof bow faces upwardly when the top stack is positioned in an extended position and in a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: ASC Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael T Willard
  • Patent number: 7036866
    Abstract: A convertible motor vehicle has a seat, a trunk behind the seat, and a storage compartment extending transversely of the direction behind the seat and forward of the trunk and extending laterally of the seat in the direction forward past the seat. An arcuate and rigid roof shell has two rear end posts defining a rear opening and riding via slides in guide rails laterally spacedly flanking the seat and extending from the compartment in the direction forward past the seat. The roof can move along the guide rails between an up position wholly out of the storage compartment and a down position wholly in the compartment with the guide slides laterally flanking the seat. A rear windshield displaceable between a lowered position in the storage compartment and a raised position fitting between the rear end posts of the windshield in the up position thereof and closing the rear opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Petros Perakis
  • Patent number: 7014246
    Abstract: Foldable tops (1) suitable for convertible vehicles may include a rear window (3) supported within a roof covering (2). A tensioning bow (5) imparts a tension across a rear portion of the roof covering when the foldable top is disposed in a roof closed position. A lower edge (4) of the rear window (3) is supported along a supporting portion of the tensioning bow when the foldable top is disposed in the roof closed position. At least one connector (9) is preferably disposed along the supporting portion between the rear window and the tensioning bow. The at least one connector releaseably engages the lower edge of the rear window with the tensioning bow when the foldable top is disposed in the roof closed position and disengages the rear window from the tensioning bow when the foldable top is opened. The at least one connector preferably comprises a hook portion (10) and a complementary projection (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Huedepohl