Patent ID: 6128860
Filing Date: 2000-10-10
Classification: B60J

Abstract:
An articulated window panel suitable for use in a vehicle comprising:a glass sheet having inner and outer surfaces terminating in a peripheral edge defining a shape adapted to fit within a window opening of the vehicle;a hinge mounting area on said inner surface of said glass sheet;a hinge bonded to said hinge mounting area and hingedly securing said glass sheet for movement between open and closed positions, said hinge including a first flange portion bonded to said hinge mounting area, said first flange portion comprising a non-elastomeric material a second flange portion for mounting said window panel when secured to the vehicle, and a connecting section between said first and second flange portions;said glass sheet having a surface area of at least 250 square inches;an adhesive between said hinge mounting area and said hinge, said adhesive forming a joint bonding said first flange portion of said hinge to said hinge mounting area such that there is no exposure of said hinge on said outer surface of said glass sheet;said window panel adapted for mounting on the vehicle such that when fitted within the generally vertical window opening of the vehicle, said glass sheet will be generally vertically mounted and will be at least one of a side window, rear window, and lift gate window of the vehicle; said joint supporting the weight of said glass sheet without failure in a generally vertical position when subjected to severe vibration and extreme climatic conditions when mounted and used in the generally vertical vehicle window opening.