Header latch assembly for convertible tops
AssigneeWilhelm Karmann GmbH
InventorFrank Neubrand
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A latch assembly allows a first part and a second part of a convertible top system to be latched together. The latch assembly includes a pair of latch mechanisms disposed on the first part. Each latch mechanism has a hook movable between a locked position engaged with a receiver on the second part to latch the first and second parts together and an unlocked position disengaged from the receiver to unlatch the first and second parts from each other. The latch assembly also includes an actuating mechanism disposed on the first part between the latch mechanisms for moving the hooks between the locked and unlocked positions. The actuating mechanism includes a multi-link assembly movable to a dual overcenter position for maintaining the hooks in the locked position.
Claims20
A latch assembly for latching together a first part and a second part of a convertible top system of a vehicle, wherein at least a portion of the convertible top system is movable between an extended position for covering a passenger compartment and a retracted position disposed in a storage space behind the passenger compartment, said latch assembly comprising:
- a pair of latch mechanisms disposed on the first part, each latch mechanism having a hook that is movable between a locked position engaged with a receiver on the second part to latch the first and second parts together and an unlocked position disengaged from the receiver to unlatch the first and second parts from each other;
- and
- an actuating mechanism disposed on the first part between the latch mechanisms for moving the hooks between the locked and unlocked positions, the actuating mechanism including a multi-link assembly movable to a dual overcenter position for maintaining the hooks in the locked position.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.