Sliding vehicle window

Abstract

A sliding vehicle window assembly is provided which includes at least one, and preferably a pair, of window panels spaced from each other to define a window opening and interconnected by upper and lower frame members or tracks, bonded to the interior surface of the pair of window panels. The upper and lower frame members are also spaced vertically apart from each other. At least one, and preferably two, arcuate channels are defined in each of the inwardly facing walls of the two frame members--the two channels arranged generally in tandem or end-to-end alignment. The pair of channels in each frame member are configured to receive a window panel, opposite ends of which retain cam or channel followers received by the channels. A latch handle interconnects one end of each cam follower and includes a cam projection also received in the channel and when rotated in one end of the channels, moves the sliding window generally perpendicularly with respect to the window opening when the window is located over the window opening. The sliding window is sealed against the window opening by a seal fixed to the interior surface of the fixed window panels carried in a seal carrier which spans the upper and lower portions of the window opening. The advantages resulting from the various forms of the invention include a sliding vehicle window assembly which is substantially flush with the exterior of the vehicle. There are no components which extend beyond the exterior surface of the fixed panels. Additionally, all of the components may be injection molded from lightweight, rigid materials, resulting in less expense. Moreover, the window assembly design is easy to assemble resulting in less man hours per unit and, as a result, less cost. The window assembly is easily adapted to any one of a number of different gasketing techniques used to retain the vehicle window assembly in the vehicle window opening.