Patent Publication Number: US-8979181-B2

Title: Vehicle body structure

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention generally relates to a vehicle body structure. More specifically, the present invention relates to a vehicle body structure that includes a roof ditch and a molding assembly that covers and conceals the roof ditch. 
     2. Background Information 
     Most vehicles have seams defined between a roof panel and side panels. In recent model vehicles, this seam has been formed in a concave area at the side of the roof referred to as a roof ditch. In many such vehicles with roof ditches, a pair molding members or molding assemblies are used to cover or conceal the roof ditch. These molding members are typically flush with surfaces of the roof panel and side panels. 
     SUMMARY 
     One object is to provide a vehicle body structure with a molding assembly for a roof ditch that allows for thermal expansion and contraction of the molding assembly relative to the vehicle roof panel and side panels. 
     In view of the state of the known technology, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle body structure with at least one vehicle body panel that includes a roof ditch defined by a recessed support surface, a first wall surface extending longitudinally along a first side of the recessed support surface and a second wall surface extending longitudinally along a second side of the recessed support surface, with the second wall surface being disposed outboard of the first wall surface. A cover including a top portion spans a width of the roof ditch between respective top edges of the first and second wall surfaces. The cover further includes a cover attachment section and a molding attachment section, the cover attachment section coupling the cover at a fixed position relative to the vehicle body panel. A molding member extends in a lengthwise direction along the roof ditch between the first and second wall surfaces of the roof ditch. The molding member includes an attachment member mating with the molding attachment section of the cover to form a lengthwise movement connection that retains the cover to the molding member with a predetermined amount of movement along the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch. The molding member includes an attachment projection extending under one of the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the cover with an upper surface of the top portion of the cover facing an underside of the molding member. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a vehicle that includes a vehicle body structure with a roof ditch and a molding assembly that covers and conceals the roof ditch in accordance with one embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a rear plan view of the vehicle body structure showing a portion of the molding assembly and the roof ditch in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the vehicle body structure showing the molding assembly installed to the roof ditch with a section of the molding assembly extending above the roof line of the vehicle body structure in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the molding assembly shown removed from the vehicle in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of the molding assembly and the roof ditch showing a molding member, a cover, seals and cushions of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a rear portion of the vehicle body structure with a rear door of the vehicle in an open position revealing the cover of the molding assembly and a rear section of the roof ditch in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a side cross-sectional view of the rear end section of the roof ditch and the molding assembly taken along the line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 2  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of the rear end section of the roof ditch and the molding assembly taken along the line  8 - 8  in  FIG. 2  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a rear portion of the vehicle body structure with the rear door and the molding assembly removed to reveal the roof ditch and a hinge installed to the roof ditch in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective view of the rear portion of the vehicle body structure similar to  FIG. 9 , showing features of the hinge, the cover and the molding member of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the cover of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a rear plan view of the cover of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a side plan view of the cover of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is a top view of the cover of the molding assembly in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is another perspective view of the cover of the molding assembly showing an underside of the cover in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a rear section of the molding member of the molding assembly showing an underside of the rear section of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  is another perspective view of the underside of the cover of the molding assembly showing the rear section of the molding member installed to the cover in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a bottom view of the cover of the molding assembly showing the rear section of the molding member installed to the cover in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a rear section of the molding assembly showing the rear section of the molding member installed to the cover in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a side plan view of a rear section of the molding assembly showing the molding member installed to the cover in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 21  is a bottom view of the molding assembly showing the underside of the cover and the molding member removed from the vehicle body structure in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a front section of the molding member showing an attachment structure that extends down from an underside of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a first portion of a mid-section of the molding member showing two attachment structures that extend down from the underside of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a second portion of the mid-section of the molding member showing two further attachment structures that extend down from the underside of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a third portion of the mid-section of the molding member showing two further attachment structures that extend down from the underside of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of the rear section of the molding member showing a further attachment structure that extends down from the underside of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 27  is a side view of the mid-section of the molding member showing projections of the molding member and projections that extend downward from the attachment structures in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the mid-section of the molding member showing the projections of the molding member and the projections that extend downward from the attachment structures in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective, cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member taken along the line  29 - 29  in  FIG. 5 , showing two of the attachment structures with their respective projections along with the projections of the molding member in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 30  is a simplified cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member taken along the line  30 - 30  in  FIG. 21  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 31  is a simplified cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member and the roof ditch taken along the line  31 - 31  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member taken along the line  32 - 32  in  FIG. 21  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member and the roof ditch taken along the line  33 - 33  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 34  is a cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member taken along the line  34 - 34  in  FIG. 21  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 35  is a cross-sectional view of the mid-section of the molding member and the roof ditch taken adjacent to the line  33 - 33  in  FIG. 1  in accordance with the one embodiment; 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a portion of a molding member that includes two attachment members and a snap-fitting projection in accordance with a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 37  is another perspective view of the molding member showing the two attachment members and the snap-fitting projection engaged with surfaces of the cover in accordance with the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 38  is a perspective view of the molding member and a cover, the cover having an installation slot, showing the two attachment members and the snap-fitting projection in an installation position with respect to the cover in accordance with a third embodiment; and 
         FIG. 39  is a perspective view of the molding member and the cover, showing the two attachment members and the snap-fitting projection in a fully attached position with respect to the cover in accordance with a third embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     Referring initially to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a vehicle  10  is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment. The vehicle  10  includes a vehicle body structure  12  that defines a pair of roof ditches  14  that are covered and concealed by corresponding molding assemblies  16 . The molding assemblies  16  are described in greater detail below after a description of selected portions of the vehicle body structure  12  and the roof ditches  14 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-3  and  6 - 10 , the vehicle body structure  12  includes, among other things, a roof panel  20 , a pair of side panels  22 , a pair of hinges  24 , a vehicle door  26  and the molding assemblies  16 . The roof panel  20  and the side panels  22  are typically formed of one or more pieces of sheet metal or any other suitable material that is welded or rigidly and fixedly attached together to form a substantially rigid portion of the vehicle body structure  12 . Also the roof panel  20  and/or the side panels  22  can be supported by other structural members as needed and/or desired. 
     The roof panel  20  and the side panels  22  are dimensioned, contoured and shaped to define the pair of roof ditches  14  that are spaced apart along the roof panel  20  in a direction that is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction or lengthwise direction of the roof ditches  14 . As indicated, the side panels  22  are fixed to the roof panel  20  such that the side panels  22  and the roof panel  20  collectively define the overall shape of the roof ditches  14 . Each roof ditch  20  is thus a joint that is made by union of the roof panel  20  and a respective one of the side panels  22  of the vehicle  10 . The roof ditches  14  are contoured and shaped to compliment the overall shape and design of the vehicle  10 . The depicted contour and overall shape of the roof ditches  14  can vary from vehicle to vehicle. Further the roof ditches  14  are depicted as extending between front and rear ends of the roof panel  20  and side panels  22 . Other orientations and directional orientation are possible and are within the scope of the invention. 
     The roof ditches  14 , the hinges  24  and the molding assemblies  16  are identical to one another except that they are symmetrically shaped mirror images of one another. Consequently, description of one roof ditch  14 , one hinge  24  and one molding assembly  16  applies to both. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, only one of the roof ditches  14 , only one of the hinges  24  and only one of the molding assemblies  16 , are described below. 
     As indicated in  FIG. 5 , the roof ditch  14  and the molding assembly  16  both include a compound arcuate and curved shape. Specifically, as indicated in the side view in  FIG. 3 , the molding assembly  16  and the roof ditch  14  beneath the molding assembly  16 , have an arcuate shape when viewed from the side. When viewed from above, as in  FIGS. 1 and 5 , the roof ditch  14  has a curved shape. The overall curved and contoured shape of the molding assembly  16  is demonstrated in  FIG. 4  and corresponds to the shape of the roof ditch  14 . Specifically,  FIG. 4  shows the molding assembly  16  removed from the roof ditch  14 , but is shown with an overall shape that corresponds to the overall shape of the roof ditch  14 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  8 ,  9  and  10 , the roof ditch  14  includes an inner wall surface  30  that is within a lateral boundary of the roof panel  20 , an outer wall surface  32  that is positioned adjacent to the lateral boundary of the roof panel  20  and a recessed support surface  34  that extends laterally between the bottom edges of the inner and outer wall surfaces  30  and  32 . The inner wall surface  30  extends longitudinally along a first side of the recessed support surface  34  and the outer wall surface  32  extends longitudinally along a second side of the recessed support surface  34 . The outer wall surface  32  is disposed outboard of the inner wall surface  30 . The inner wall surface  30  terminates at a top edge  30   a  that is defined along the intersection of the inner wall surface  30  and the roof panel  20 . Similarly, the outer wall surface  32  terminates at top edge  32   a  that is defined along the intersection of the outer wall surface  32  and the adjacent one of the side panels  22 . The inner wall surface  30 , the outer wall surface  32  and the recessed support surface  34  therefore extend from the front section of the roof of the vehicle body structure  12  to the rear section of the roof of the vehicle body structure  12 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , a rearward section  34   a  of the recessed support surface  34  has a depth that is greater than the remainder of the recessed support surface  34  to accommodate the hinge  24 . As is shown in  FIG. 5 , the roof ditch  14  includes a plurality of fastening members  36 . Specifically, each of the fastening members  36  includes a head portion and a shaft portion. As indicated in  FIGS. 33 and 35 , the shaft portion of each fastening members  36  is rigidly fixed to and extends through the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14 . The head portion of each of the fastening members  36  extends above the recessed support surface  34 . However the head portion of each of the fastening members  36  is located below the top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the inner and outer wall surfaces  30  and  32 . The head portion of the fastening members  36  is dimensioned and shaped to provide an attachment point for the molding assembly  16 , as is described in greater detail below. 
     A brief description of the hinges  24  is now provided with specific reference to  FIGS. 6-10 . The hinge  24  at least partially extends into the roof ditch  14 . Further, the hinge  24  is mounted in the roof ditch  14  of the roof panel  20  and is at least partially covered by sections of the molding assembly  30 , as discussed in more detail below. Basically, the hinge  24  includes a base component  38  and an arm component  40 . As shown in  FIGS. 7 ,  9  and  10 , the base component  38  of the hinge  24  is rigidly fixed to the rearward section  34   a  of the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14  by fasteners. As shown in  FIG. 6 , a rearward end of the base portion  38  is exposed at the pivot axis P. The arm component  40  pivots about the pivot axis P such that the majority of the arm component  40  of the hinge  24  is located outside of the roof ditch  14 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . The arm component  40  is rigidly fixed to an upper end of the vehicle door  26  by fasteners (not shown). 
     The pivot axes P of the hinges  24  are generally perpendicularly arranged with respect to a longitudinal direction of the vehicle body structure  12 . In other words, the vehicle door  26  is configured as a lift gate with the hinges  24  having the horizontally arranged pivot axes P between the base component  38  and the arm component  40 . 
     Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle door  26  is configured as a rear door (i.e., a lift gate) of the vehicle  10 . In other words, the vehicle door  26  is configured as a lift gate with the hinges  24  having horizontally arranged pivot axes P between the roof panel  20  and the vehicle door  26 . Typically, the pivot axes P extend in directions that are perpendicular or at least transverse to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle  10 . As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the hinges  24  are situated at an upper-rear portion of the vehicle door  26  of the vehicle body structure  12 . 
     The vehicle door  26  that is typically formed of metal or any other suitable material and is pivotally mounted to the vehicle body structure  12  by the pair of hinges  24 . The hinges  24  are typically made of metal or any other suitable rigid material having sufficient strength and durability to support the vehicle door  26  in the open position. A more detailed description of the hinge  24  and vehicle door  26  can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 13/042,990, filed Mar. 8, 2012 (Ref. No. NT-US115071). The disclosure of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/042,990 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     A description of the molding assembly  16  is now provided with initial reference to  FIGS. 3 ,  4  and  5 . The molding assembly  16  can be made of plastic or any other suitable material that can have some flexibility. In the depicted embodiment, the molding assembly  16  is contoured and shaped to extend partially into and covers the roof ditch  14 . 
     As indicated in  FIG. 3 , the molding assembly  16  includes a front section  44 , a mid-section  46  and a rear section  48 . The front section  44  and the rear section  48  cover the roof ditch  14  and further are contoured to extend flush with the roof panel  20  (a vehicle body panel) between respective the top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the first and second wall surfaces  30  and  32 . The mid-section  46  extends between the front and rear sections  44  and  48 . The mid-section  46  has a convex contour as viewed in cross-section in  FIGS. 30-35  and extends above the roof panel  20  (the vehicle body panel) between respective top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the first and second wall surfaces  30  and  32  forming a roof rail protruding upward from and above the roof panel  20 . Thus, the mid-section  46  has the appearance of a side roof rail, but does not include slots or gaps typically associated with roof rails or roof rack assemblies. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the molding assembly  16  includes a plurality of components. Specifically, the molding assembly  16  basically includes a cover  50 , an elongated molding member or molding member  52 , a pair of elongated sealing members  54 , a plurality of cushions  56  and a pair of caps  58  that conceal a pair of cleats  60 . 
     A description of the cover  50  is now provided with specific reference to  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  10 - 15 . The cover  50  can be made of, for example, a plastic material, a polymer material, a metallic material or other materials suitable for use in an exterior automotive application. The cover  50  basically includes a top portion  64  and a close-out portion  66 . The top portion  64  is dimensioned and shaped to span a width of the roof ditch  14  between respective top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the first and second wall surfaces  30  and  32 . The top section  64  includes an upper surface  64   a , a first lateral side  64   b  and a second lateral side  64   c.    
     The close-out portion  66  is angularly offset from the top portion  64 , extending downward relative to the top portion  64  when installed to the vehicle  10  and the roof ditch  14 . Specifically, the close-out portion  66  extends from a peripheral end edge of the top portion  64  towards the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14 , as indicated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . The close-out portion  66  also defines a slot  66   a  through which the arm component  40  of the hinge  24  extends. The close-out portion  66  extends laterally along a rear open section of the roof ditch  14  from the inner wall surface  30  to the outer wall surface  32 , but within the roof ditch  14 . 
     As indicated in  FIGS. 11 and 15 , the cover  50  also includes a cover attachment section  68  and a molding attachment section  70 . The cover attachment section  68  is provided to couple the cover  50  at a fixed position relative to the vehicle body structure  12 . Specifically, the cover attachment section  68  is configured to fix the cover  50  to the hinge  24 , with the hinge  24  being fixedly secured to the roof ditch  14  by fasteners, as indicated in  FIGS. 8 ,  9  and  10 . 
     The cover attachment section  68  is defined by a box-like structure that extends from an underside of the top portion  64  along a concealed side of the close-out portion  66 , as shown in  FIG. 15 . The cover attachment section  68  defines a fastener slot  68   a . As shown in  FIG. 17 , a snap-fitting fastener  72  is installed in the fastener slot  68   a . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the snap-fitting fastener  72  is inserted thru an aperture  38   a  in the base component  38  of the hinge  24 , thereby fixing the cover  50  in position relative to the hinge  24  and the roof ditch  14 . 
     The molding attachment section  70  is defined along the top portion  64  of the cover  50 , as shown in  FIGS. 11-15 . More specifically, the molding attachment section  70  includes first and second slots  74  and  76  which, along with snap fitting projections  78  and  80  of the molding member  52  (shown in  FIGS. 16-18 ), define a lengthwise movement connection between the cover  50  and the molding member  52 . The first slot  74  and the second slot  76  are defined by the top portion  64  of the cover  50 . The first and second slots  74  and  76  are both laterally and longitudinally offset with respect to the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14 . 
     The first slot  74  and the second slot  76  both extend in the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14 . As is further explained below, the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  are attachment members of the molding member  52  and are movably installed, respectively, in the first and second slots  74  and  76 . As a result of the lengthwise movement connection between the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  of the molding member  52  and the first slot  74  and the second slot  76  of the cover  50 , the rear section  48  of the molding member  52  is movable relative to the cover  50  in the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14 . The snap fitting projection  78  snap-fits into the first slot  74  of the cover  50  such that the molding member  50  cannot move in lateral directions relative to the cover  50 . However, the snap fitting projection  78  can slide in a lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14  along the first slot  74 . Similarly, the snap fitting projection  80  snap-fits into the second slot  76  of the cover  50  such that the molding member  50  cannot move in lateral directions relative to the cover  50 . However, the snap fitting projection  80  can slide in a lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14  along the second slot  76 . 
     The possible movement of the molding member  52  in the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14  is provided because the molding assembly  16  is made of a completely different material than the roof panel  20  and the side panel  22 . Specifically, the vehicle body structure  12  is preferably made of metal. The molding assembly  16  can be made of plastic, polymers, rubber material or the like. Consequently, the molding member  52  can undergo expansion and contraction in response to changes in temperature that differs from the thermal expansion and contraction rates of the vehicle body structure  12 . Specifically, the overall length of the molding member  52  can increase and decrease as a result of thermal expansion and contraction relative to the vehicle  10 . The first and second slots  74  and  76  are elongated such that the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  can undergo limited sliding movement along the length of the first and second slots  74  and  76  to accommodate the changes in overall length of the molding member  52  as it undergoes thermal expansion and contraction. 
     As is indicated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the cover  50  and the roof ditch  14  define a cavity. The base component  38  of the hinge  24  is situated within this cavity and the arm component  40  (a vehicle door mounting structure) of the hinge  24  is situated outside of the cavity. More specifically, a rear end of the base component  38  of the hinge  24  is located adjacent to the slot  66   a  of the close-out portion  66  of the cover  50 . The arm component  40  of the hinge  24  extends through the slot  66   a  of the close-out portion  66  of the cover  50 . Consequently, the majority of the arm component  40  of the hinge  24  is substantially located outside of the cavity defined by the cover  50  and the roof ditch  14 . 
     The cover  50  also includes a hook  82  that extends downward from the top portion  64  of the cover  50 . The hook  82  is configured to hook on to a forward edge of the base component  38  of the hinge  24  to further secure the cover  50  in place relative to the roof ditch  14 . 
     A description of the molding member  52  is now provided with specific reference to  FIGS. 21-35 . The molding member  52  is an elongated member that is formed unitarily as a single monolithic element. The molding member  52  can be molded in a single step, or can be molded in a series of steps to form the single monolithic element. The molding member  52  can be made of a plastic material, a polymer material, a rubber or rubber-like material or any other material suitable for use as a molding in an automotive application where such molding is exposed to the elements (sunshine, wind, cold, heat, rain, etc. . . . ). 
     The molding member  52  includes three basic sections, a front section  84 , a mid-section  86  and a rear section  88 . The front section  84  corresponds to the front section  44  of the molding assembly  16 , the mid-section  86  corresponds to the mid-section  46  of the molding assembly and the rear section  88  corresponds to the rear section  48  of the molding assembly  16 . Specifically, the front section  84  and the rear section  88  cover the roof ditch  14  and further are contoured to extend flush with the roof panel  20  between respective the top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the first and second wall surfaces  30  and  32 . The mid-section  86  extends between the front and rear sections  84  and  88 . The mid-section  86  has a convex contour (as viewed in cross-section in  FIGS. 30-3 ) and extends above the roof panel  20  between respective top edges  30   a  and  32   a  of the first and second wall surfaces  30  and  32  forming a roof rail protruding upward from and above the roof panel  20 . Thus, the mid-section  86  has the appearance of a side roof rail, but does not include slots or gaps typically associated with roof rails or roof rack assemblies. The front section  84 , the mid-section  86  and the rear section  88  extend in a lengthwise direction relative to the roof ditch  14 . 
     When viewed in cross-section as in  FIGS. 30-35 , the molding member  52  includes a top portion  90 , a first lateral side  92 , a second lateral side  94 , a plurality of attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  and the above described snap fitting projections  78  and  80 . 
     The top portion  90  has a contoured shape that has differing profiles along the lengthwise direction. For example, as indicated in  FIGS. 1-3 ,  5 ,  8  and  10  in the front section  84  and rear section  88  of the molding member  52 , the top portion  90  appears to be flat, but can be contoured to include a slight curvature and arcuate profile corresponding to the curvature and arcuate contour of the roof panel  20  and adjacent side panel  22 . In the mid-section  86  of the molding member  52 , the top portion  90  is raised, such that the top portion  90  protrudes above the roof panel  20  and adjacent side panel  22 . Further, within the mid-section  86  of the molding member  52 , the overall shape and cross-sectional profile of the top portion  90  changes along the lengthwise direction, as indicated in the drawings. The top portion  90  can be shaped and contoured in any of a variety of shapes depending upon the overall design of the vehicle body structure  12  of the vehicle  10 . The shape of the top portion  90  in the depicted embodiment is for example only, and is not intended to limit the overall shape and appearance of the top portion  90 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4 ,  5  and  21 , the top portion  90  includes a pair of openings  112   a  and  112   b . The openings  112   a  and  112   b  are covered by the caps  58 . The caps  58  are removable to expose the cleats  60 . The cleats  60  are fixed to the recessed support surface  34  by fasteners (not shown). The cleats  60  are configured to support cross-members (not shown) that form part of an optional feature of a roof rack system. These cross-members extend across the roof panel  20  between the two roof ditches  14  and are attached to the cleats  60  in a conventional manner. It should be understood from the drawings and description herein that the openings  112   a  and  112   b , the cleats  60  and the caps  58  are optional features that can be omitted. Since these features are optional, further description is omitted for the sake of brevity. 
     The first lateral side  92  and second lateral side  94  extend downward from opposite lateral sides of the top portion  90  of the molding member  52 . The first lateral side  92  is positioned adjacent to the roof panel  20  and the second lateral side  94  is positioned adjacent to the side panel  22  with the molding member  52  installed to the roof ditch  14 . The first and second lateral sides  92  and  94  further include respective recesses or lips  92   a  and  94   a  that extend in a lengthwise direction along the entire length of the molding member  52 . With the molding member  52  installed to the roof ditch  14 , the lip  92   a  is positioned adjacent to the top edge  30   a  of the inner wall surface  30 , and the lip  94   a  is positioned adjacent to the top edge  32   a  of the outer wall surface  32 , as indicated in  FIGS. 31 and 33 . The first lateral side  92  includes a bottom edge  92   b  that is located below the lip  92   a , as shown in  FIG. 32 . As well, the second lateral side  94  includes a bottom edge  94   b  that is located below the lip  92   a , as shown in  FIG. 32 . 
     The first lateral side  92  and second lateral side  94  also include a plurality of downwardly extending projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b , as shown in  FIGS. 22-27 . The first lateral side  92  includes the projections  120   a ,  122   a ,  124   a ,  126   a  and  128   a , and the second lateral side  94  is provided with the projections  120   b ,  122   b ,  124   b ,  126   b  and  128   b . As indicated in  FIGS. 21-25 , the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  are staggered along the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , but are paired together. Specifically, the projections  120   a  and  120   b  are approximately aligned with one another relative to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , as shown in  FIGS. 21 ,  22  and  23 . The projections  122   a  and  122   b  are approximately aligned with one another relative to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 23 . The projections  124   a  and  124   b  are approximately aligned with one another relative to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 24 . The projections  126   a  and  126   b  are approximately aligned with one another relative to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 25 . Further, the projections  128   a  and  128   b  are approximately aligned with one another relative to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 , as shown in  FIGS. 21 and 25 . 
     The elongated sealing members  54  are installed along respective ones of the lips  92   a  and  94   a , as indicated in  FIGS. 8 ,  33  and  35 . The elongated sealing members  54  provide a cushion between the roof ditch  14  and the molding member  52 . The elongated sealing members  54  extend the length of the molding member  52 . The elongated sealing members  54  include slots that receive the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b . More specifically, the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  extend downward through the slots formed in the sealing members  54 . 
     The projections  120   a  through  128   b  are stabilizing projections that position the molding member  52  in a relatively fixed orientation within the roof ditch  14 . The projections  120   a ,  122   a ,  124   a ,  126   a  and  128   a  extend below the lip  92   a  and the bottom edge  92   b  of the first lateral side  92 . Similarly, the projections  120   b ,  122   b ,  124   b ,  126   b  and  128   b  extend below the lip  94   a  and the bottom edge  94   b  of the second lateral side  94 . The projections  120   a  through  128   b  are further tapered in thickness, as indicated in  FIGS. 30 and 31 . More specifically, the projections  120   a  through  128   b  have tapering thicknesses such that upper ends of the stabilizing projections  120   a  through  128   b  are thicker than lower end of the stabilizing projections, as shown in  FIGS. 30 and 31 . Further, with the molding member  52  installed in the roof ditch  14 , the projections  120   a ,  122   a ,  124   a ,  126   a  and  128   a  of the first lateral side  92  conform to shape of the inner side wall  30 . 
     Similarly, the projections  120   b ,  122   b ,  124   b ,  126   b  and  128   b  of the second lateral side  94  conform to the shape of the outer side wall  32  with the molding member  52  installed to the roof ditch  14 . In other words, the projections  120   a ,  122   a ,  124   a ,  126   a  and  128   a  of the first lateral side  30  extend downward away from the top portion  90  along the first wall surface  30  of the roof ditch  14  and the projections  120   b ,  122   b ,  124   b ,  126   b  and  128   b  of the second lateral side  94  extend downward away from the top portion  90  along the second wall surface  32  of the roof ditch  14 . Further, the projections  120   a  through  128   b  all extend downward below respective bottom edges  92   b  and  94   b  of the first and second lateral sides  92  and  94  into contact with the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14 . 
     Further, each of the projections  120   a  through  128   b  is provided a corresponding one of the cushions  56 . The cushions  56  are included to reduce and/or prevent noise that might otherwise occur during movement of the molding member  52  relative to the roof ditch  14 . More specifically, as the molding member  52  experiences thermal expansion and contraction, the cushions  56  provide a reduced friction surface that permits small amounts of movement of the molding member  52  relative to the surfaces of the roof ditch  14 . 
     A description is now provided of the plurality of attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . The attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  all have structural features in common with one another but due to variations in the overall shape of the molding member  52  along its length, each of the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  can have slightly different overall dimensions. However, the general description below of the attachment structure  102  applies to each of the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . 
     As indicated in  FIGS. 29 ,  32  and  33 , each of the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  includes a first side wall  132 , a second side wall  134 , a lateral wall  136  extending between the first and second side walls  132  and  134  and a bottom wall  138 . An upper end of the first side wall  132  is fixed to and formed integrally (molded) with the first lateral side  92  of the molding member  52 . Further, an tipper end of the second side wall  134  is fixed to and formed integrally (molded) with the second lateral side  94  of the molding member  52 . The first side wall  132  extends downward from an upper area of the first lateral side  92  and the second side wall  134  extends downward from a mid-section of the second lateral side  94 . Further, the side wall  136  extends between the first and second side walls  132  and  134 , being integrally formed or molded therewith. However, as the first side wall  132  extends downward, a lower section of the first side wall  132  is spaced apart from the first lateral side  92  and the second lateral side  94 . As well, as the second side wall  134  extends downward, the lower section of the second side wall  134  is spaced apart from the second lateral side  94 . 
     The first side wall  132  and the lateral wall  136  are perpendicularly arranged relative to one another. The lateral wall  136  and the second side wall  134  are also arranged perpendicularly relative to one another, with the first and second side walls  132  and  134  facing one another. The first side wall  132 , the second side wall  134  and the lateral wall  136  define an open area between the first and second side walls  132  and  134  and above the bottom wall  138 . 
     The bottom wall  138  extends in a direction that is approximately perpendicular to each of the first, second and third side walls  132 ,  134  and  136 . Further, the bottom wall is formed integrally (molded) with the first and second side walls  132 ,  134  and the lateral wall  136 . The bottom wall  138  includes a slot or opening  140 . The bottom wall  138  defines a lower or bottom surface that includes a pair of ribs  142 . The ribs  142  extend in a lengthwise direction relative to the roof ditch  14 . The ribs  142  are located on opposite lateral sides of the opening  140 . The lower surface of the bottom wall  138  of each of the attachment structures are positioned vertically lower than adjacent sections of the longitudinally extending lips  92   a  and  94   a.    
     A clip  144  (clip member) is snap fitted into the opening  140 , as shown in  FIGS. 33 and 35 , for each of the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 , but not the attachment structure  96 , as is explained below. The clip  144  defines an elongated slot that snap fits to a corresponding one of the fastening members  36 . Hence, there is a plurality of the clips  144 , one for each of the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . The clips  144  all include mounting parts that snap fit to the bottom wall  138  at the opening  140 . 
     It should be understood from the drawings and description herein, that the fastening members  36  shown in  FIG. 5 , are spaced apart from one another in alignment with the spacing between the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . With the clips  144  installed to the openings  140  of each of the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 , the molding member  52  is installed to the roof ditch  14  by pressing down on the molding member  52 , snap fitting each of the fastening members  36 , one by one, into the clips  144  of each of the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 . The elongated slot of each of the clips  144  receives one the fastening members  36  extending therethrough. The elongated slots of the clips  144  extend in a direction approximately parallel to a lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14  and are dimensioned relative to the fastening members  36  such that the molding member can undergo limited movement relative to the roof ditch. Consequently, it is possible for there to be small amounts of relative movement between the fastening members  36  and the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  in the lengthwise direction of the roof ditch  14 . More specifically, the clips  144  are configured to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the molding member relative to the roof ditch  14 . 
     As is indicated in  FIG. 21 , the attachment structure  96  is provided with a clip  146  that has a rounded opening. Consequently, once the molding member  52  is installed to the roof ditch  14 , the front section  84  is fixed in position relative to the roof ditch  14  via the connection between the fastening member  36  and the clip  146  in the attachment structure  96 . 
     As is indicated in  FIGS. 21-27 , the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  (the stabilizing projections) of the first and second lateral sides  92  and  94  are offset from the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  (roof attachment portions) as viewed laterally with respect to a lengthwise direction along the roof ditch  14 . More specifically, the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  (the stabilizing projections) are longitudinally spaced apart from adjacent ones of the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  (roof attachment portions). For example, as shown in  FIG. 23 , the projections  120   a  and  120   b  are spaced apart from the attachment structure  98 . Specifically, the projections  120   a  and  120   b  are positioned closer to the front of the vehicle  10  than the attachment structure  98 . The projections  122   a  and  122   b  are also spaced apart from and are located rearward from the attachment structure  98 . Further as shown in  FIG. 24 , the projections  124   a  and  124   b  are located between the attachment structures  102  and  104 , being offset therefrom. As shown in  FIG. 25 , the projections  126   a  and  126   b  are located between the attachment structures  106  and  108 , being offset therefrom. 
     As is indicated in  FIGS. 27 ,  30  and  31 , the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  (the stabilizing projections) extend downward from the first and second lateral sides  92  and  94  lower than a lowermost surface of the bottom wall  138  of each of the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  (the roof attachment portions). Further, the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  extend downward from the first and second lateral sides  92  and  94  lower than the ribs  142 , as indicated in  FIGS. 30 and 31 . 
     However, when the molding member  52  is installed within the roof ditch  14 , the ribs  142  can contact and remain in contact with the recessed support surface  34  with the molding member  52  installed to the roof ditch  14 . Alternatively, the ribs  142  can be dimensioned to remain slightly spaced apart from the recessed support surface  34  with the molding member  52  installed to the roof ditch  14 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the molding member  52  (the top portion, the first lateral side  92  and the second lateral side  94 ), the snap fitting projections  78  and  80 , and the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  are formed unitarily as a single monolithic element. 
     During assembly, the cover  50  is first attached to the hinge  24 . The clips  144  and the clip  146  are installed to the attachment structures  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110 , and the attachment structure  96 , respectively. The seals  54  are installed to the lips  92   a  and  94   a  of the molding member  52 . Thereafter, the molding member  52  is installed to the roof ditch  14  such that the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  are inserted into the first and second slots  74  and  76  of the cover  50 ; and the fastening members  36  are snap fitted into the slots or openings of the clips  144  (and  146 ) installed to the attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  of the molding member  52 . During installation, the projections  120   a ,  122   a ,  124   a ,  126   a  and  128   a  of the first lateral side  92  of the molding member  52  press against and conform to the shape of the inner wall surface  30  of the roof ditch  14 , then contact the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14 . Similarly, the projections  120   b ,  122   b ,  124   b ,  126   b , and  128   b  of the second lateral side  94  of the molding member  52  press against and conform to the shape of the outer wall surface  32  of the roof ditch  14 , then contact the recessed support surface  34  of the roof ditch  14 . 
     The attachment structures  96 ,  98 ,  100 ,  102 ,  104 ,  106 ,  108  and  110  snap fitted to the fastening members  36  fixes the molding assembly  16  to the roof ditch  14 . Further, contact between the projections  120   a ,  120   b ,  122   a ,  122   b ,  124   a ,  124   b ,  126   a ,  126   b ,  128   a  and  128   b  of the molding member  52  and the inner wall surface  30 , the outer wall surface  32  and the recessed support surface  34  ensure a firm, non-twistable and non-rotatable installation of the molding member  52  to the roof ditch  14 . 
     Second Embodiment 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 36 and 37 , a molding assembly in accordance with a second embodiment will now be explained. In view of the similarity between the first and second embodiments, the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity. The parts of the second embodiment that differ from the parts of the first embodiment will be indicated with a single prime (′). 
     In the second embodiment, the molding assembly is very similar to the first embodiment in that it includes the cover  50 , but includes a modified molding member  52 ′. In the second embodiment the molding member  52  of the first embodiment has been replaced with the molding member  52 ′. The molding member  52 ′ includes each and every feature of the molding member  52  of the first embodiment, as described above. However, in the second embodiment, the molding member  52 ′ includes an additional feature. Specifically, the molding member  52 ′ includes an attachment projection  200  that extends laterally inwardly from adjacent the bottom edge  94   b  of the second lateral side  94  of the molding member  52 ′. Further, the attachment projection  200  has an upper surface (not visible) that extends approximately parallel to an underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52 ′. The attachment projection  200  is a snap fitting projection in the second embodiment, as described further below. 
     As described in the first embodiment (and included in the second embodiment), the molding member  52 ′ also includes the snap fitting projections  78  and  80 . The snap fitting projections  78  and  80  extend away from the underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52 . The snap-fitting projection  200  extends in a direction that is perpendicular to the snap fitting projections  78  and  80 . The attachment projection  200  further extends in a direction that is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the molding member  52 ′. The attachment projection  200  is spaced apart from the underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52 ′ by a distance that allows the second lateral side  64   c  to be disposed between the underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52  and the attachment projection  200 . Preferably, the attachment projection  200  is positioned to retain the upper surface  64   a  of the top portion  64  of the cover  50  flush to the underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52 ′. 
     As is shown in  FIG. 37 , the attachment projection  200  (the attachment projection) extends under the second lateral side  64   c  of the cover  50  in the installed position ( FIG. 37  is an upside-down view of the cover  50  and the molding member  52 ′). However, it should be understood that the attachment projection  200  can be located on either lateral side of the molding member  52 ′ such that either one of the first lateral side  64   b  and the second lateral side  64   c  of the cover  50  can be retained by the snap fitting projection  200 . Further, multiple ones of the snap fitting projections  200  can be included on the molding member  52 ′. It should be understood from the drawings and the description herein that the lengthwise movement connection defined by the connection between the first and second slots  74  and  76 , and the snap fitting projections  78  and  80 , is enhanced and supported by the attachment projection  200 . Specifically, the attachment projection  200  is positioned to allow the lengthwise movement of the molding member  52 ′ relative to the cover  50 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 37 , the first and second slots  74  and  76  are both laterally and longitudinally offset from one another. Similarly, the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  are likewise laterally and longitudinally offset from one another. In the depicted embodiment, the snap fitting projection  78  and the attachment projection  200  are both located at the second lateral side  94  of the molding member  52 ′. However, the snap fitting projection  78  and the attachment projection  200  are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the molding member  52 ′. The snap fitting projection  80  and the attachment projection  200  are spaced apart from one another in the lateral direction of the molding member  52 ′. As well, the attachment projection  200  is laterally aligned with portions of the second slot  76  and the snap fitting projection  80 . 
     In the second embodiment, the molding member  52 ′ and the attachment projection  80  can be made of any of a variety of materials. For example, the molding member  52 ′ can be made of a plastic or polymer material that has sufficient resiliency and flexibility such that the attachment projection  200  can snap fit to the cover  50  during assembly of the cover  50  to the molding member  52 ′. However, if the molding member  52 ′ is made of a more rigid material, such as stainless steel or chrome plated metal material, then the dimensions of the attachment projection  200  may need to be modified in order for the attachment projection  200  to snap fit to the cover  50 . Still further, it is also possible to modify the cover  50  with a recess that permits installation of the molding member  52 ′ to the cover  50 , without utilizing a snap fit engagement between the attachment projection  200  and the cover  50 , as is described in greater detail below with respect to a third embodiment. 
     Third Embodiment 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 38 and 39 , a molding assembly in accordance with a third embodiment will now be explained. In view of the similarity between the first, second and third embodiments, the parts of the third embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first and second embodiments will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first and second embodiments. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the third embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first and second embodiments may be omitted for the sake of brevity. 
     In the third embodiment, the molding assembly includes the molding member  52 ′ and therefore includes all of the features of the molding member  52  described with respect to the first embodiment and further includes the attachment projection  200  of the molding member  52 ′ described with respect to the second embodiment. 
     In the third embodiment, the molding assembly further includes a cover  50 ′ that includes all of the features of the cover  50  described above with respect to the first and second embodiments, and further includes a recess  210 . The recess  210  is formed along the second lateral side  64   c  of the top section  64  of the cover  50 ′. The recess  210  is basically a cutout that is dimensioned such that the attachment projection  200  can pass through the recess  210  when the attachment projection  200  is aligned with the recess  210 . Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 38  the recess  210  is an insertion slot. As described above with respect to the cover  50 , the cover  50 ′ of the third embodiment can undergo limited sliding movement with the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  installed within the first and second slots  74  and  76 . During installation and/or removal of the snap fitting projections  78  and  80  in and out of the first and second slots  74  and  76 , there may be difficulty moving the cover  50 ′ past the attachment projection  200 . For example, if one or both of the molding member  52 ′ and the cover  50 ′ are made of a rigid material, assembly of the molding member  52 ′ to the cover  50 ′ may make snap fitting engagement between the attachment projection  200  and the cover  50 ′ difficult. The recess  210  allows for added ease of assembly and dis-assembly. Specifically, with the cover  50 ′ installed to the roof ditch  14  as described above and the molding member  52 ′ in an installation orientation with respect to the cover  50 ′, the attachment projection  200  is aligned with the recess  210  (insertion slot). As the molding member moves from an installation orientation to an installed orientation, the snap-fitting projections  78  and  80  of the molding member  52 ′ pass through respective first slot  74  and second slot  76  of the cover  50 ′ while the attachment projection  200  passes through the recess  210  (insertion slot). 
     As shown in  FIG. 39 , once the molding member  52 ′ is slid into a fully installed position or fully attached position relative to the cover  50 ′, the attachment projection  200  no longer aligns with the recess  210  and retains the upper surface  64   a  of the top portion  64  of the cover  50 ′ flush to the underside surface  88   a  of the molding member  52 ′. 
     The various features of the vehicle  10 , other than the above described roof ditch  14  and the molding assembly  16 , are conventional components that are well known in the art. Since these various features of the vehicle  10  are well known in the art, these structures will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the components can be any type of structure and/or programming that can be used to carry out the present invention. 
     General Interpretation of Terms 
     In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” or “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. Also as used herein to describe the above embodiment, the following directional terms “forward”, “rearward”, “above”, “downward”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “below” and “transverse” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a vehicle equipped with the vehicle body structure. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the present invention should be interpreted relative to a vehicle equipped with the vehicle body structure. 
     The terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. 
     While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.