Convertible top vinyl push-out
US4927202A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 12, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 22, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 12, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60J7/1204
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An attachment to the support structure of a retractable convertible top for a vehicle which prevents the vinyl top material from becoming caught between the cross support bows of the structure. As a result, the storage stack height of the fully retracted roof is reduced. The invention consists of a pair of push-out attachments which are secured to opposite sides of the support structure directly to the cross bow. The push-outs are mounted to the bow using the existing screws of the structure and replace a cardboard spacer found on the structure. The opposite end of the push-out includes a slot which travels along the side power link. As the top is retracted, the push-out engages the vinyl material which tends to fold along with the structure and prevents the material from becoming caught between the bows. Once the top is fully retracted, the stack height is substantially reduced.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.