Patent ID: 7717493
Filing Date: 2010-05-18
Classification: B60J

Abstract:
1. A sliding door system for a vehicle, the vehicle including a vehicle body having a door opening formed therein, the sliding door system comprising: a door configured to be disposed within the door opening; a trim panel connected to the door; an opening formed through the trim panel, the opening having a front end and a rear end; a hinge arm that extends through the opening in the trim panel, the hinge arm having a first end connected to the vehicle body and a second end slidably connected to the door for movement of the door between a closed position, wherein the hinge arm extends through the opening near the rear end thereof, and an open position, wherein the hinge arm extends through the opening near the front end thereof; and a closure panel moveable between a deployed position, wherein the closure panel obstructs at least a portion of the opening in the trim panel, and a stowed position, wherein the closure panel does not obstruct the opening in the trim panel.