Convertible top mechanism with inwardly articulating rearmost lateral rails
US7287801B2 · kind B2 · utility
3Cited by
21References
9Claims
0Family size
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 26, 2005 |
| Grant date | Oct 30, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 16, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60J7/0069
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A three-dimensional four bar linkage mechanism is described which provides in and out movement of the rear corners of a convertible top as the top is being lowered or extended which allows the storage space for the retracted top to be smaller in width than the width of the foot print of the top when extended. A drag link which is hinged at one end to one bar and connected by a ball joint to a second bar which in turn is obliquely hinged to a third bar provides the three-dimensional action.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.