Inflatable Top Patents (Class 296/107.1)
  • Patent number: 11491360
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an inflatable structure transformable between a deflated state and an inflated state. The inflatable structure comprises a drop stitch fabric having a first layer and a second layer tethered by drop stitches. The inflatable structure is provided with, along at least a portion of an edge of the drop stitch fabric, an edge fixation line and an at least first inner fixation line at an at least first margin from the edge, the edge fixation line and the at least first inner fixation line comprising coupling means fixating the first layer to the second layer. The inflatable structure is further provided with, between the edge fixation line and the at least first inner fixation line, a non-inflatable connectable element e.g. adapted to be connectable with a detachably attachable counterpart element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventors: Erik Hjerpe, Nathan Nuzzo
  • Patent number: 8132329
    Abstract: A method and tool for mass manufacturing convertible roofs having an outer shell, a frame and lateral linkage parts for supporting the outer shell, the outer shell including at least two outer shell parts is provided. The method includes the steps of providing an upper tool fixture and a lower tool fixture, aligning and assembling the frame and outer shell in the lower tool fixture such that the frame and outer shell are upside down, aligning and assembling connection members onto the frame part so the roof can fittingly engage the windshield frame when the roof is in a closed position, and lowering the lateral linkage parts onto the assembled frame and outer shell using the upper tool fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Wilhelm Karmann GmbH
    Inventors: Jörg Hälker, Johannes Dreising, Paul Lothar