Wilhelm Karmann Gmbh

Asc Corporation

Gm Global Technolgoy Operations, Inc.

Stefan W Eichhorst

Gary J Forgue

David M Brooks

Markus Wulf

Timothy J Olind

Jens Loemker

An adjustable adapter for a cable connector with a fixed cable takeoff direction, relative to the cable connector, includes an input member having first and second terminals. A connecting member having first and second bus bars is configured to selectively mate to the input member in at least two different connecting member positions relative to the input member. In each of the different connecting member positions, each of the first and second bus bars is in electrical communication with a respective one of the first and second terminals. The connecting member accepts at least one cable connector, which therefore has at least two different, selectable cable takeoff directions relative to the input member. An adapter plate may facilitate mating of the cable connectors to the connecting member and the connecting member to the input member. A third terminal and third bus bar may allow for cable connectors with three cables.

Variable direction cable connector adapter

A control system controls the movement of a convertible top, decklid, and tonneau cover to minimize the overall cycle time of the system. The top is pivotally coupled to a vehicle body for movement between an extended position covering a passenger compartment and a retracted position disposed in a storage space. The decklid is pivotally coupled to the body for movement between a closed position covering the storage space and an open position to accommodate movement of the top into the storage space. The tonneau cover moves between a use position extending outwardly from an end of the decklid to conceal the convertible top in the retracted position and a stowed position disposed beneath the decklid. The control system is preprogrammed to begin movement of the tonneau cover to the use position when the decklid reaches a predetermined angle as the decklid moves between the closed and open positions.

Vehicle decklid position sensor and control

The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for connecting a unitary cable terminal plate assembly to a busbar from multiple directions in tight closed spaces so that space and assembly problems are improved. A lug connection is accomplished by combining a polyhedron nut having differently oriented nut holes for cooperation with bi-directional holes in the terminal plate assembly together with a stair-step frame to orient the nut in the terminal plate assembly. This bi-directional connection made with a nut, terminal plate, and frame ensures that no change has to be made to a vehicle component needing an electrical lug connection. Further this invention allows for a preferred tool drive direction, for example only vertically, even though the unitary assembly is being repositioned for better packaging orientation.

Bi-directional lug connection and method

A latching system for an automotive vehicle having a convertible roof is provided. In another aspect of the present invention, front and/or rear convertible roof sections are rigid, hard-top roofs. A further aspect of the present invention system provides a latch which secures a generally rigid tonneau cover.

Latch for an automobile vehicle having a convertible roof

A modular bulkhead assembly is provided for a convertible roof system for an automobile. The convertible roof system is mounted to the bulkhead or wall member including left and right linkage assemblies, an electronic control unit, and a hydraulic control system. The bulkhead module can then be assembled into a vehicle as a modular unit. The electronic control unit can then be connected to the vehicle power supply by connection of wire harnesses from the electrical control unit.

Bulkhead module for an automotive vehicle having a convertible roof

A convertible roof latch operable to retain a convertible roof apparatus in a retracted position. The convertible roof latch is lockingly engaged and disengaged in response to actuation of a tonneau cover. The convertible roof latch is positionable in an unlocked position where a top stack mechanism is free to move relative to the locking mechanism and a locked position where the top stack mechanism is coupled with the locking mechanism when the tonneau cover is in the closed position to prevent relative movement of the top stack mechanism and the locking mechanism.

Growing community of inventors

Bloomfield, MI, United States of America

Stefan W Eichhorst