Patent ID: 6796595
Filing Date: 2004-09-28
Classification: B60J

Abstract:
A convertible roof system for an automotive vehicle, said convertible roof system comprising:(a) a roof cover; and (b) a folding mechanism supporting at least a portion of said roof cover, said folding mechanism being moveable between a stowed position and a raised position, said folding mechanism comprising: (i) a first pair of roof rails; (ii) a first roof bow that extends transversely between said first pair of roof rails, said first roof bow supporting a portion of said roof cover; (iii) a second pair of roof rails; (iv) a third pair of roof rails pivotably coupled to said second pair of roof rails; and (v) a first pair of hinge assemblies pivotably coupling said first pair of roof rails to said second pair of roof rails, said first pair of hinge assemblies controlling movement of said first pair of roof rails relative to said second pair of roof rails so that said first, second, and third pairs of roof rails form a Z-shape and an exterior portion of said roof cover supported by said first roof bow faces upward when said folding mechanism is in said stowed position.