Abstract:
A universal connector mechanically couples any one or more of a variety of accessories to a vehicle. The universal connector comprises a first mounting member, which can extend along a section of a vehicle such as a door panel, instrument panel or the like and can be mounted in recessed relationship to the vehicle. The universal connector also includes a second mounting member associated with each accessory and shaped to lockably and removably engage the first mounting member. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the mounting members is made of a resilient material to allow a snap-fit interconnection of the two members.
Abstract:
A flexible sun shading membrane has an edge coupled to a window frame and an opposite edge attached to a moveable member which has at least two stable positions, one being closed adjacent and conforming to the window frame and a second position extended and lowered from the window frame to stretch the membrane into a sun blocking position.
Abstract:
A trim panel connecting link for one of the vehicle pillars, such as an A-pillar includes electrical conductors with a plug or socket at each opposite end thereof which connect with a mating socket or plug in the headliner and instrument panel for interconnecting the vehicle electrical system with the headliner electrical components. In a preferred embodiment an A-pillar display is mounted to the trim panel. In another embodiment the display is coupled to the conductors of the connecting link.
Abstract:
A movable door actuating member is mechanically connected to a door latching control through a flexible sealing membrane in the door panel. The door actuating member is movably mounted to the door panel and includes a camming surface which deflects the membrane which in turn engages a cam follower of the latching mechanism for actuating the door latch for opening the door.
Abstract:
A torque control for providing a desired frictional resistance to a pivotally mounted vehicle accessory, such as an armrest or headrest, which includes a resilient member having an irregular arcuate slot. A resistance element extends in the slot to move along the length thereof as the pivoted component pivots about the pivot axis. In one modification, the shape of the slot provides a desired predetermined frictional resistance and in another modification a cutout is made in one of the walls of the slot permitting such wall to flex.