Convertible header latch mechanism
US4817999A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 24, 1987 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 24, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T292/0917
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A latch mechanism for convertible vehicles, detaches from the header by a manually-applied, moderate, releasing force applied in the downward direction. This detachment is further enhanced by a unique mechanical linkage that employs cam action between the engaging member and the releasing member. The latch mechanism is mounted in the side-rail of the foldable top of a convertible vehicle. The latch mechanism includes a stationary member, a release member, and an engaging member. The stationary member has a pedestal and a foot extending from the pedestal. The engaging member has a keeper which attaches to the header, and a lip opposite the keeper. The release member is rotatably mounted to the stationary member and pivotally mounted to the engaging member. To detach the latch mechanism from the header, the release member is actuated by applying a disengaging force to the release member in a downward direction. The release member is swingably rotated relative to the stationary member as the lip on the engaging member is aligned with the foot of the stationary member. The engaging member is pivoted relative to the stationary member, resulting in a camming action between the lip and th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.