Patent ID: 6338509
Filing Date: 2002-01-15
Classification: B60J,E05B,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A latch assembly for use in an adjustable vehicle roof panel assembly including a roof panel which is driven by a drive unit, the latch assembly comprising:a base portion having first and second channels formed therein; a release member disposed within the first channel; a guide member disposed within the second channel for directing a front end of the roof panel within the second channel; a roller coupled to a rear end of the roof panel for guiding the roof panel within the second channel; a latch arm; a connector attached to the latch arm, the connector having a portion which extends within the first channel for selective contact with the release member, a latch catch member for releasably engaging the latch arm, wherein in a latched position, the latch arm engages the latch catch member and the roller is caught by the latch catch member to lock the roof panel in place; and wherein the roof panel is unlatched by driving the release member within the first channel so that the release member contacts the connector causing rotation of the latch arm so that the latch arm disengages the latch catch member freeing the roller and permitting the roof panel to travel within the second channel, the driving of the release member also causing the guide member to lift and guide the front end of the roof panel within the second channel.