Retractable folding top for a convertible

US5558389A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Wilhelm Karmann GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Karl Rothe · Bramsche, DE
• Frank Lehnig · Osnabrück, DE
• Heiko Klemme · Osnabrück, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 8, 1994
• Grant date: Sep 24, 1996
• Expiry date: Aug 8, 2014

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60J7/198
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A convertible top for a vehicle includes a folding top frame having top-folded and top-unfolded positions, a storage well in the vehicle, a cover for the storage well, and an actuator operably connected between the cover and the vehicle for moving the cover between a closed position and an open position. The cover when in its closed position covers the storage well, and when in its open position uncovers the storage well. Lockably engageable parts on the cover and the folding top frame are operable to effect locking engagement between the cover and the folding top frame. The actuator includes a cross strut mounted on the cover and having a helical-like groove, and a reversing lever pivotally mounted to the vehicle and having a thrust pin disposed in the groove such that pivoting of the reversing lever rotates the cross strut. The actuator is operable to move the cover in a non-circular path to its closed position as the engagement is effected between the cover and the folding top frame by the engageable parts such that moving of the cover to its closed position by the actuator effects tensioning of the folding top frame.