Patent ID: 8132329
Filing Date: 2012-03-13
Classification: B60J,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of manufacturing a convertible roof including a plurality of frame parts each supporting an outer shell part, the method comprising the steps of: providing a lower tool fixture that includes two groups of upwardly projecting supports, wherein the first group of upwardly projecting supports form a first receiving plane and the second group of upwardly projecting supports form second receiving plane that is spaced apart from and above the first receiving plane; placing an outer shell part on the first receiving plane of the lower tool fixture in an upside down relationship with respect to the roof's disposition on a vehicle body; placing a frame part over the outer shell part and on the second receiving plane of the lower tool fixture, in an upside down relationship with respect to the roof's disposition on a vehicle body; wherein prior to placing a frame part on the second receiving plane, applying an adhesive bead around the periphery of the corresponding outer shell part or around the outer periphery of the frame part; and wherein the step of placing a frame part on the second receiving plane includes compressing the adhesive bead to achieve a predetermined distance between the outer shell part and the frame part.