Roof system for vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a roof system for a vehicle (1) having a fixed roof (2) with a roof opening (3) which can be closed by a roof panel (4). The roof system comprises a pair of parallel guide rails (9) and at least one transverse guide rail (8) extending at an angle to the pair of parallel guide rails (9), and also comprises an operating mechanism (10) for each guide rail (9), each operating mechanism comprising a front mechanism (20), a tilt mechanism (24) and a locking mechanism (62) for locking the tilt mechanism (24). The parallel guide rails (9) each slidably support the front mechanism (20) and the tilt mechanism (24), and at least one transverse guide rail (8) slidably supports the locking mechanism (62) of each respective operating mechanism (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a roof system for a vehicle having a fixed roof and a roof opening therein. In particular, the present invention relates to such a roof system having a closure panel movable between a closed position and one or more open positions. Background Art

[0002] With the advent of electric vehicles, the overall layout of the car is changing. The space required for the battery pack is usually located at the bottom of the car, which raises the ground level of the passenger compartment, especially the seats therein. However, the roof cannot be raised to maintain the overall aerodynamic front of the vehicle, resulting in a reduction in headroom. As a result, the available height of the roof system is reduced. To address this problem, car manufacturers have introduced fixed bright panels to achieve the required reduction in the so-called Z-pack. These fixed panels can provide a visual connection experience with the outside environment, but lack the flexibility to adapt to different environmental conditions, such as exchanging fresh air on a sunny morning and covering up on a dark and rainy afternoon. Therefore, there is a need to provide a roof system that can balance these conflicting requirements. Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to solve the above requirements.

[0004] According to one aspect, a roof system is provided for a vehicle having a fixed roof with a roof opening. The roof system includes: a stationary portion configured to be attached to the fixed roof; at least one first panel movably supported on the stationary portion and configured to close the roof opening when in a closed position and to move at least rearward to an open position in which the roof opening is at least partially opened, the first panel having a front edge and a rear edge. The roof system also includes: a pair of parallel rails supported by the stationary portion and extending in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to opposite sides of the roof opening; at least one transverse rail extending in a direction at an angle to the pair of parallel rails (preferably perpendicular to the parallel rails); and at least one operating mechanism for each parallel rail for operating the first panel. Here, each corresponding operating mechanism includes a front mechanism capable of moving in the rail in a longitudinal direction and capable of moving the front edge of the first panel in a vertical direction. The front mechanism includes a panel bracket attached to the first panel. Each operating mechanism also includes a tilting mechanism capable of moving the rear edge of the first panel in a vertical direction, the tilting mechanism including a sliding claw that is slidably in contact with the panel bracket. Each operating mechanism also includes a locking mechanism for locking the tilting mechanism to the guide rail so that the tilting mechanism remains stationary with the guide rail so that the first panel can slide relative to the stationary tilting mechanism. The parallel guide rails can all slidably support the front mechanism and the tilting mechanism of the corresponding operating mechanism. At least one transverse guide rail slidably supports the locking mechanism of each corresponding operating mechanism. This configuration allows the front mechanism, the tilting mechanism and the locking mechanism to be installed in the same plane and in a compact surface area. In this way, the minimum height required for the roof system can be reduced.

[0005] According to another aspect, the roof system includes: a first drive member that operably connects the front mechanism to the drive motor; a second drive member that operably connects the front mechanism to the locking mechanism; and a third drive member that operably connects the locking mechanism to the tilt mechanism. In a front-drive situation where the drive motor is located at the front of the roof system, the first drive member can be directly connected to the front mechanism. In a rear-drive situation where the drive motor is located at the rear of the roof system, the first drive member can be indirectly but operably connected to the front mechanism, such as via the second drive member.

[0006] According to another aspect, at least one transverse rail of the roof system is located near the front end of the parallel rails, or near the rear end of the parallel rails, or behind the rear end of the parallel rails and away from the rear end, or away from both the front end and the rear end of the parallel rails.

[0007] According to another aspect, the operating mechanism of the roof system may be configured to slide the front mechanism from the closed position to the open position, and simultaneously slide the locking mechanism to and into the locked position via the second drive member. It is also configured to slide the tilt mechanism from the closed position to the tilt position. When the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the tilt mechanism is slid and locked via the third drive member while the tilt mechanism is in the tilt position. When the tilt mechanism is in the locked position, the front mechanism is slid into the open position via the first drive member.

[0008] According to another aspect, the operating mechanism of the roof system may be configured to slide the front mechanism from the open position to the closed position via the first drive member while the tilt mechanism is in the locked position, and to slide the locking mechanism out of the locked position via the second drive member. It is also configured to unlock, and when the locking mechanism is out of the locked position, slide the tilt mechanism to the closed position via the third drive member while the tilt mechanism is in the tilted position. Slide the tilt mechanism from the tilted position to the closed position, and slide the front mechanism into the closed position.

[0009] According to another aspect, the locking mechanism comprises a locking groove at the outer end of the second drive member, a hinge block at the outer end of the third drive member, a locking locator fixedly attached to the guide rail, and a locking rod slidably guided by the locking locator. The locking rod is further pivotally connected to the hinge block at one end and releasably connected to the locking groove at the other end. Here, the locking rod can be moved between a sliding position and a tilted locking position via the movement of the second drive member, wherein the locking rod is unlocked in the locking locator and locked in the locking groove when in the sliding position. In the tilted locking position, the locking rod is locked in the locking locator and separated from the locking groove.

[0010] According to another aspect, the locking mechanism in the locking position is unlocked from the front mechanism when the second drive member is unlocked from the locking rod via the locking groove, and locks the tilt mechanism when the third drive member is locked to the detent via the locking rod. The locking mechanism in the sliding position is locked to the front mechanism when the second drive member is locked to the locking rod via the locking groove, and unlocks the tilt mechanism when the third drive member is unlocked from the locking detent via the locking rod.

[0011] According to another aspect, the transverse guide rail of the roof system comprises a first guide channel for each parallel guide rail for guiding the second drive member of the corresponding parallel guide rail, and / or may also comprise a second guide channel for each parallel guide rail for guiding the third drive member of the corresponding parallel guide rail.

[0012] Further objects, aspects, effects and details of specific embodiments of the present invention are described in the following detailed description of several exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] By way of example only, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] 1A and 1B are schematic perspective views of a vehicle roof having a roof system, showing panels of the roof system in a closed position and an open position, respectively;

[0015] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a plan view of a different embodiment of the roof of FIG. 1A ;

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 2A A plan view of a portion of a roof without panels but with a frame;

[0017] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Observed from the outside and inside Figure 2A An exploded view of the various parts of the panel operating mechanism of the roof system;

[0018] Figure 4C and Figure 4D Observed from the outside and inside Figure 2A An exploded view of the various parts of an alternative operating mechanism for a roof system panel;

[0019] Figure 4E Observed from the outside from the side Figure 2A An exploded view of another alternative operating mechanism for the roof system panel;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A plan view of the operating mechanism without the guide rail on which the operating mechanism is mounted;

[0021] Figures 6A-6C to Figures 7A-7C Without guide rails Figure 4A and 4B External and internal side views of the operating mechanism in three different positions;

[0022] Figures 8 to 13A 14-17 are along Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view of lines VIII to XVII in FIG.

[0023] Fig. 13B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIIB of FIG. 2 ;

[0024] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view taken across the guide rail when the panel 4 is in the sliding position, showing the Figure 3 Front sliding boots in the middle XVIII line;

[0025] Fig.19 is a plan view of a lateral portion of the operating mechanism showing a locking mechanism and a portion of a lateral rail with an access hole;

[0026] Fig. 20 is along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view of line XX;

[0027] Fig.21 is a true side view as seen from the outside of the side towards the center of the vehicle on the sliding guide;

[0028] Fig. 22 is a side view of the locking slot;

[0029] Fig.23 is a side view of the positioner;

[0030] Fig.24A -D is Figure 2A An exploded view of the various parts of an alternative locking mechanism of an operating mechanism of a roof system panel;

[0031] Fig.25A -D, 26A-D are schematic plan views of several embodiments of operating mechanisms and guide rail geometries in different embodiments of a roof system having at least one movable first panel;

[0032] Figure 27-29 is based on Fig.25A , 26C and 26D are schematic cross-sectional views of the operating mechanisms of the corresponding line combinations A-A' & B-B', A-A' & C-C' and A-A' & EE'.

[0033] The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein the same reference numerals have been used to identify the same or similar elements throughout the several views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the following description, spatial references (e.g., front, side, and rear, or below, below and above, or forward and rearward directions and driving movements) are made with respect to the general direction of a vehicle (e.g., a passenger car), and more specifically, with respect to a driver such as behind the steering wheel of the vehicle. In addition, the X, Y, and Z directions will refer to directions corresponding to the length, width, and height of the vehicle. In the figure, the forward driving movement of the vehicle can be indicated by an arrow D, thus pointing in the direction toward the front side of the vehicle.

[0035] With reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B , a roof system is schematically shown. In a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 , a roof opening 3 is defined by a removable closure, here a rigid first panel 4 , which can be closed ( FIG. 1A ) and opened ( FIG. 1B ). The panel can be partially transparent or at least partially translucent, for example made of glass, plastic, etc. The roof system can include a second panel 4 ', which is typically a fixed panel, but can also be removable, for example for opening and closing the second opening. A front window 5a, a side window 5b and a rear window 5c are also shown.

[0036] The roof system may be a so-called top-mounted roof system, in which a stationary part 7 of the roof system, such as a supporting frame or other load-bearing structure, is introduced from above onto a roof opening 3 which rests on the fixed roof 2, usually specifically on a flange 6a of a roof beam 6, see Fig. 20 The stationary part 7 may be attached to the fixed roof 2 of the vehicle 1 in a suitable manner (preferably gluing, but also welding and bolting, depending on the material used). In other embodiments, the roof system may be an undermount roof system.

[0037] The roof system shown here is called an outer slider, also called a spoiler roof, in which the panel 4 can be moved upwards from its closed position, at least together with its rear side, and then moved backwards to various positions above the fixed roof 2, or in this embodiment above the rear panel 4'. The operating mechanism 10, in particular the part for supporting the panel 4, is mainly kept inside the roof opening 3, which is different from the top slider roof in which the rear support of the panel 4 slides in the guide rails 9, which extend or are extended to a position behind the roof opening 3. The movable panel 4 can be in a closed position, in which the movable panel 4 is arranged above the roof opening 3 and closes the roof opening 3, and is therefore generally arranged in the plane of the vehicle roof 2. In addition, the movable panel 4 can be in an inclined position, in which the rear end RE of the movable panel 4 is raised compared to the closed position, while the front end FE of the movable panel 4 is still in the closed position. In addition, the movable panel 4 can be in an open position, in which the movable panel 2a slides away and the first roof opening 3a is partially or completely exposed. In the open position, both the rear end RE and the front end FE may be raised, for example compared to the closed position.

[0038] It should be noted that the vehicle roof 1 shown corresponds to a passenger car. However, the invention is not limited to passenger cars. Any other type of vehicle that can be equipped with a movable panel is also envisaged.

[0039] In order to operate the movable panel 4 between the closed position, the tilted position and the open position, the roof system is provided with at least one operating mechanism. Figure 2A and Figure 2B , shows a plan view of a fixed roof with different embodiments of the roof system. Herein, for the sake of clarity, the operating mechanism 10 and the pair of parallel guide rails 9 of different embodiments are schematically shown in solid lines within the surface area covered by the panels 4, 4'. The roof system is generally symmetrical about the symmetry axis S. It matches the front window 5a and the rear window 5c with respect to the front and rear of the vehicle 1, and further corresponds to the arrow D indicating the forward driving direction.

[0040] exist Figure 2A In the figure, a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown, which is provided with a roof system (in this case, a top-mounted roof system) having a first single panel 4. The panel 4 is located between the front and rear of the roof 2. The roof system includes a stationary portion 7, such as a load-bearing frame or other support structure, which is configured to be attached to the fixed roof 2. The first panel 4 is movably supported on the stationary portion 7 and is configured to close the roof opening 3 when in a closed position and to move backward to an open position in which the roof opening 3 is at least partially opened. In a first embodiment of the roof system, guide rails 9 extend parallel from the front to the rear on both left and right sides of the roof opening 3, and transverse guide rails 8 extend parallel in a direction at an angle (preferably perpendicular) to the pair of parallel guide rails 9. The transverse guide rails 8 are located rearwardly near the rear ends of the parallel guide rails 9. The roof system includes two operating mechanisms 10, one for each parallel guide rail 9. Each operating mechanism 10 includes a front mechanism 20, a tilt mechanism 24 and a locking mechanism 62. The parallel rails 9 each slidably support the front mechanism 20 and the tilt mechanism 24 of the corresponding operating mechanism 10. The lateral rails 8 slidably support the locking mechanism 62 of each corresponding operating mechanism 10.

[0041] exist Figure 2B In FIG. 1 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a first panel 4 and a second panel 4 ′. The panels 4, 4 ′ are located between the front and rear of the roof 2. The roof system again comprises a stationary part 7, but with a Figure 2AThe stationary portion in the roof system is larger and is configured to be attached to the fixed roof 2. The first panel 4 is movably supported on the stationary portion 7 and is configured to close the roof opening 3 when in the closed position and to move backward to an open position in which the roof opening 3 is at least partially opened. The second panel 4' is also supported on the stationary portion 7 and is immovable in this embodiment, but it can be movable in other embodiments. The second panel 4' closes the second part or remaining part of the roof opening 3, that is, the part not covered by the first roof panel 4 when in the closed position. In the second embodiment of the roof system, the guide rails 9 also extend in parallel from the front to the rear on the left and right sides of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide rail 8 is divided into two independent parts 8a, 8b, each of which extends in a direction at a certain angle (preferably perpendicular) to the pair of parallel guide rails 9. The transverse guide rails 8a, 8b are located near the front and front ends of the parallel guide rails 9. The roof system includes two operating mechanisms 10, each for one parallel guide rail 9. Each operating mechanism 10 further includes a front mechanism 20, a tilt mechanism 24 and a locking mechanism 62. The parallel rails 9 each slidably support the front mechanism 20 and the tilt mechanism 24 of the corresponding operating mechanism 10. The lateral rails 8 slidably support the locking mechanism 62 of the corresponding operating mechanism 10.

[0042] Still reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B , the front mechanism 20 is movable in the longitudinal direction in the guide rail 9, and is capable of moving the front edge of the first panel 4 in the vertical direction. The front mechanism 20 may include a panel bracket 22, which is attached to the first panel 4. The tilting mechanism 24 is capable of moving the rear edge of the first panel 4 in the vertical direction, and the tilting mechanism 24 includes a sliding claw 32, which is slidably in contact with the panel bracket 22. The locking mechanism 62 is used to lock the tilting mechanism 24 on the guide rail 9 so that the tilting mechanism 24 and the guide rail 9 remain stationary, thereby allowing the first panel 4 to slide relative to the tilting mechanism 24 that remains stationary.

[0043] Typically, the pair of parallel rails are supported by the stationary portion and extend in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to the opposite sides of the roof opening, and at least one transverse rail extends in a direction at an angle (preferably perpendicular) to the pair of parallel rails 9. Thus, the transverse rails are oriented so that their corresponding virtual longitudinal axis will intersect the virtual longitudinal axis of each parallel rail. Thus, transverse may mean any angle at which the rails may intersect.

[0044] Reference Figure 3 , showing in more detail Figure 2AOne side of the roof system of the vehicle. The figure shows one of the guide rails 9 supported by the stationary part 7, as well as the front mechanism 20 and the tilting mechanism 24. Also shown are the transverse guide rails 8 supported by the stationary part 7, as well as the locking mechanism 62. In this case, the stationary part 7 is made of plastic material by injection molding, which provides great design freedom. However, it is also possible for the stationary part 7 to be made of other materials, such as steel. The stationary part 7 or the guide rail 9 is provided with a panel seal 38, such as Fig. 13B As shown, it seals the panel 4 from below. The guide rail 9 is fixed to the frame 7 in the longitudinal direction below each side edge of the panel 4. The length of the guide rail 9 is such that it extends substantially from the front to the rear of the roof opening 3, so that in the case of the second panel 4', the guide rail 9 can extend all the way to the rear of the second panel 4'.

[0045] Still refer to Figure 3 , the operating mechanism 10 is connected to each guide rail 9 and guided along each guide rail 9, and can be driven by a drive motor (e.g., an electric motor) 11, which can drive various parts of the operating mechanism 10 through main first drive members 12, 12', which are implemented as drive cables in this embodiment. Each first drive member 12, 12' will drive an operating mechanism of a corresponding guide rail. Here, the first drive member 12, 12' is operably connected to the front mechanism. For example, in the front drive situation where the motor is located at the front of the roof system, the first drive member can be directly connected to the front mechanism. In the rear drive situation where the drive motor is located at the rear of the roof system, the first drive member can be indirectly connected to the front mechanism, for example, via the second drive member. However, it is also conceivable that the rear drive can directly connect the first drive member to the front mechanism, or the front drive can indirectly connect the first drive member to the front mechanism. In either case, the first drive member can be operably connected to the front mechanism.

[0046] The various parts of the operating mechanism 10 can be interconnected by the second drive member and the third drive member. Specifically, the front mechanism can be connected to the locking mechanism 62 via the drive link member, i.e., the second drive member 25 (a cable in this case). The tilt mechanism can be connected to the locking mechanism 62 via the drive connection member, i.e., the third drive member 66 (also a cable in this case). In other embodiments, any of these drive members can be implemented as a plastic rod or other suitable material element.

[0047] Furthermore, the second drive member 25, i.e. the drive link member, may form an integral part of the main first drive member 12, 12' as when implemented as a drive cable. In particular, when the drive motor is placed at the rear of the roof system, referred to as rear drive, the first drive member is preferably integrated with the second drive member and is accordingly operatively connected to the front mechanism.

[0048] Will refer to Figure 3 -7 is a more detailed description of an embodiment of the operating mechanism 10 and its various components. Figure 5 A cross section of such an embodiment from line VIII-VIII' to line XVII-XVII' is shown in the corresponding Figure 8-17 In. Along Figure 3 The cross sections of the XVIII-XVIII', XIIIB-XIIIB' and XX-XX' lines are shown in the corresponding Fig.18 , 13B and Fig. 20 middle.

[0049] Figure 4A and Figure 4B One of the guide rails 9 and the operating mechanism 10 is shown schematically. It should be remembered that the roof system comprises the same guide rail 9 and operating system 10 on the opposite side, although configured as a mirror image. The locking mechanism 62, although located in the transverse guide rail 8 and actually at a certain angle to the guide rail 9, is shown in parallel in this exploded view to indicate the relationship between the front and rear parts of the second drive member 25, 25' and the third drive member 66, 66'. The guide rail 9 comprises an extruded profile 16, for example made of aluminum, having one or more guide grooves 17, 17', 50 and guide channels 28, 29. The extruded profile 16 is straight or slightly curved downwards to fit the downward curvature of the fixed roof 2 of the vehicle 1. In addition, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The operating mechanism 10 is shown looking inwards from the side outside of the vehicle 1 and looking outwards from the side inside of the vehicle 1. The operating mechanism 10 comprises a front mechanism 20, a tilt mechanism 24 and a locking mechanism 62. Each of these mechanisms has a specific function in the movement of the panel 4, associated with each position in which the panel 4 may be positioned. Figures 6A-6C and Figures 7A-7C These positions are shown as a normally closed position NC, a tilted position Tilt (tilt) and an open position Slide (slide). Specifically, Fig. 6A and Fig. 7A The operating mechanism 10 of the roof system is shown in the normally closed position NC, as seen from the inside and outside of the side. Figure 6B and Figure 7B Shows Fig. 6A and Fig. 7A The operating mechanism 10 of the roof system is in the tilted position, and Figure 6C and Figure 7C The same operating mechanism 10 is shown in the sliding position.

[0050] The front mechanism 20 in the closed position can lock the panel 4 in the longitudinal direction. When the rear part of the panel 4 is lifted in the vertical direction towards the so-called "tilted" position, the front mechanism 20 can lift the front part of the panel 4 and then slide the panel 4 backward in the longitudinal direction. The front mechanism 20 is driven by the main drive member 12, 12', which in turn is driven by the motor 11.

[0051] The tilt mechanism 24 can lift the rear end of the panel 4 to the tilted position, and can support the panel 4 when the panel 4 moves rearward in the longitudinal direction. The tilt mechanism 24 is driven by the locking mechanism 62.

[0052] The locking mechanism 62 is able to transfer the longitudinal movement of the second drive member 25 towards the tilt mechanism 24. When the tilt mechanism 24 has reached the desired tilt height of the rear end of the panel 4, the locking mechanism 62 locks the tilt mechanism 24. This means that the locking mechanism 62 acts as a mechanical lock, which prevents the tilt mechanism 24 from moving further upward or downward in any vertical direction. The locking mechanism 62 is driven by the second drive member 25, which in turn is driven by the drive slider 23 of the front mechanism 20. In addition, the locking mechanism 62 can be separated from the second drive member 25, and the drive member 25 can continue to move in the longitudinal direction, so that the front mechanism 20 continues its longitudinal movement to slide the panel 4 to the rear, see also Figures 6A-6C and Figures 7A-7C .

[0053] Will refer to Figures 6A-6C and Figures 7A-7C The movement of the operating mechanism 10 for opening and closing the roof system is explained in more detail. As previously described, the main first drive member will drive the front mechanism 20, the connecting rod, the second drive member 25 will drive the locking mechanism 62 (when it is linked to the front mechanism), and the connecting member, the third drive member 66 will drive the tilt mechanism 24. The operating mechanism 10 is configured to slide the front mechanism 20 from the normally closed position to the open position, as Fig. 6A and Fig. 7A At the same time, the locking mechanism 62 is slid toward and into the locked position via the second driving member. The operating mechanism 10 is also configured to slide the tilting mechanism 24 from the closed position into the tilted position, as shown. Figure 6B and Figure 7B With the locking mechanism 62 in the locked position, the tilt mechanism 24 is slid and locked via the third drive member 66 while the tilt mechanism 24 is in the tilt position. With the tilt mechanism locked and in the tilt position, the operating mechanism continues by sliding the front mechanism 20 into the open position via the first drive member 25 while the tilt mechanism 24 is in the locked position, as shown in FIG. Figure 6C and Figure 7C shown.

[0054] The above describes the movement when opening. For closing the roof panel, the reverse sequence is performed. The operating mechanism 10 is configured to slide the front mechanism 20 from the open position to the closed position via the first drive member 12 when the tilt mechanism 24 is in the locked position. The locking mechanism 62 is slid out of the locked position via the second drive member 25, as shown in FIG. Figure 6C and Figure 7C The operating mechanism 10 is also configured to be unlocked, and when the locking mechanism 62 is out of the locked position, while the tilting mechanism 24 is in the tilted position, the tilting mechanism 24 is slid to the closed position via the third driving member 66, as shown in FIG. Figure 6B and Figure 7B Slide the tilt mechanism 24 from the tilted position to the closed position, and slide the front mechanism 20 to the closed position, as shown. Fig. 6A and Fig. 7A shown.

[0055] Back to Figure 4A and Figure 4B , illustrating the front mechanism 20, the tilt mechanism 24 and the locking mechanism in more detail. The front mechanism 20 comprises a drive slide 23, which is slidably guided in the guide rail 9 and driven by the corresponding first drive member 12, 12'. In this embodiment, the drive slide is provided with a drive cam 51, which is slidably connected to a curved track 52 in the front bar 21. In another embodiment, the curved track 52 can be provided in the panel bracket 22. The front bar 21 is hinged to the pivot block 26 at its rear end by means of a pivot pin 13 (see also Fig. 9 ), and the front bar 21 is equipped with a pair of front sliding shoes 19 at the opposite front ends, which are slidably guided in the guide grooves 17, 17' when the panel 4 moves in and out of the closed position. The guide grooves 17, 17' extend from the guide rail 9 to form a pair of inserts 18 extending downward. In the insert 18, the guide grooves 17, 17' extend in a curved shape. In this embodiment, the sliding shoes 19 are attached to the side of the front bar 21 and can be seen in a staggered manner (i.e., one after another) in the longitudinal direction.

[0056] The front end of the front bar 21 is hinged to the front end of the panel bracket 22. The panel bracket 22 extends to the rear in the longitudinal direction and is slidably connected to the tilt mechanism 24 via a sliding claw 32. The panel bracket 22 can be connected to the panel 4 by means of a screw 14. The drive slider 23 is connected to the second drive member 25, which extends to the rear in the longitudinal direction. In this embodiment, the drive member 25 is basically an extension of the first drive member 12, 12', and is realized as a plastic component connected to the drive slider 23 and slidably guided along the guide channel 28 of the guide rail 9.

[0057] When the first drive member 12, 12', which is slidably guided along the guide channel 28 of the guide rail 9, moves rearward in the longitudinal direction, the drive slider 23 moves rearward, and the drive cam 51 on the drive slider 23 moves rearward along the curved track 52 of the front bar 21. The curved track 52 in the front bar 21 has a first portion 52' that is approximately horizontal, so the drive cam 51 slides in the first portion 52' of the curved track 52, so that the front bar 21 does not move. The rear end of the curved track 52 has a second portion 52" of a shape with a radius in a downward direction, and the third portion 52"' of the curved track 52 is approximately perpendicular to the first portion 52' of the track 52. By continuing the cam 51 to move rearwardly along the curved track 52, the driving cam 51 reaches the second portion 52" of the track, and therefore due to the radial shape of the second portion 52", the driving cam 51 gradually begins to pull the front end of the front bar 21 upward, and when the driving cam 51 reaches the third portion 52"', the cam 51 is locked in the third portion 52"' and causes the front bar 21 to be pulled in the longitudinal rearward direction. The front bar 21 is hinged to the front end of the panel bracket 22 at its front end. Therefore, when the front bar 21 is induced to move vertically by the second portion 52" of the curved track 52, the front sliding shoe 19 attached to the front end will move upward along the curved guide grooves 17, 17' in the insert 18, and the front end of the panel bracket 22 is similarly moved in the vertical direction, thereby raising the front edge of the panel 4. Once the driving cam 51 of the driving slider 23 is located in the third portion 52"' of the curved track 52, the front bar 21 is pulled backward to slidably guide the sliding shoe 19 of the front bar 21 into the guide grooves 17, 17' of the guide rail 9 (see also Fig.18 ), so that the sliding shoe 19 is guided backward in the longitudinal direction together with the front rod 21 and the panel bracket 22. Therefore, the panel 4 will be gradually opened in this way.

[0058] The tilting mechanism includes a sliding guide 36, a rear portion (i.e., a tilting rod 63), and a sliding claw 32. The sliding guide 36 includes one or more guide grooves 35, 35', 35", as described below, which cooperate with corresponding guide pins 64, 64', 64" of the tilting rod 63. The tilting mechanism 24 may also include lifting rods 30, 30', which are hinged to the elevator housing 27 and pivotally connected to the sliding claw 32. In other embodiments, the lifting rod may be pivotally connected to the tilting rod. The locking mechanism 62 includes a locking locator 40, a locking rod 41, a hinge block 65, and a locking groove 45. The tilting mechanism 24 is connected to the locking mechanism 62 via a third drive member 66 (in this embodiment, a connecting cable 66, 66'). Figures 4A-4D In FIG. 6 , an interrupted third drive member 66 is shown, wherein the drive member portion 66 ′ shows the rear end of the connecting cable 66 .

[0059] When the panel 4 is in its closed position, the tilting mechanism 24 is substantially folded flat within the guide rail 9. Figure 10-14 The same as the locking mechanism 62 arranged in the guide groove 50, see Fig.15 , 16 17. As can be seen from these figures, there is a large amount of space for arranging the locking mechanism 62 at the center position of the guide rail 9. When moving to the rear second drive member 25, it slides backward into the guide channel 28. The second drive member 25 is releasably engaged with the locking rod 41, so that the locking rod 41 also slides backward. The locking rod 41 is equipped with a locking cam 47 at its front end, which is located on one side of the locking rod 41. The locking cam 47 engages with the locking groove 45 at the end of the second drive member 25. The locking pin 42 is attached to the side opposite to the side of the locking rod 41. Referring to Fig. 22 and Fig.23 The locking pin 42 is slidably guided along the pin slot 44 of the locking locator 40. The locking locator 40 is fixedly attached to the guide rail 9. The pin slot 44 basically comprises two parts, wherein a first part 44' extends approximately in a horizontal longitudinal direction, and a second part 44" extends perpendicularly to the first part 44' (in this embodiment in a vertical downward direction). The locking rod 41 is pivotally connected to a hinge block 65 at its rear end. The hinge block is slidably guided along the guide slot 50 of the guide rail 9 and is further connected to a connecting cable 66, which extends in another guide channel 29 toward the tilt mechanism 24. While continuing to move backward, the locking rod 41 together with the locking pin 42 will move backward in the first part 44' of the pin slot 44. Since this first part extends approximately horizontally, the backward movement of the locking rod 41 continues uninterruptedly via the hinge block 65 to the connecting cable 66, toward the tilt mechanism 24. When the locking pin 42 moves to the second part 44" of the pin slot 44, the locking rod 41 rotates around its hinge 43 at the hinge block 65 (see Fig.17 ), the front end of the locking rod 41 moves vertically in the downward direction, thereby separating the locking cam 47 from the locking groove 45 and thus from the second driving member 25. If the driving member 25 is driven further backward, it will continue to move without being connected to the locking rod 41. This means that the locking rod 41 locked in the retainer 40 will not move the tilt mechanism 24 further, so the tilt mechanism is at the end of its vertical movement, and the support plate 4 is stationary in this position.

[0060] In view of the operation of the tilt mechanism 24 from the closed position of the panel 4 toward the tilted position of the panel 4, the rear portion of the panel 4 is lifted in the vertical direction. Fig.21As described above, the connecting cable 66 moves backward in the guide channel 29. The connecting cable 66 is attached to the sliding guide 36. The sliding guide 36 includes three guide grooves 35, 35', 35". The tilt rod 63 is slidably engaged with the three guide grooves 35, 35', 35" by means of three guide pins 64, 64', 64". The guide groove 35 is located at the front of the sliding guide 36 and includes a horizontal groove portion 68 and an interconnected vertical groove portion 68'. The guide groove 35' is a groove having a generally horizontally extending groove 69, and the third guide groove 35" of the sliding guide 36 includes a first generally horizontal portion 70 and a subsequent upwardly bent portion 70'. The tilt rod 63 also has a pivot pin 31 at the rear end of the rod for pivotally engaging the sliding claw 32. In other embodiments, the pivot pin can be connected to the lifting rod. The sliding claw 32 has preferably been provided with a plastic lining 34 (see Fig. 13B ), which slidably passes around the lower part of the panel support 22 and the panel support rail 33. The sliding claw 32 is rotatably connected to a pair of lifting rods 30, 30', which are hinged at their opposite ends to the housing 27. The housing 27 is fixedly connected to the guide rail 9. Therefore, when the connecting cable 66 is being moved backward, the sliding guide 36 is also moved backward.

[0061] Reference now Fig.21 Due to the longitudinal movement of the sliding guide 36, the guide pins 64, 64', 64" are forced to fit the shape of the guide grooves 35, 35', 35". This means that, when the panel 4 is in its closed position, the tilting lever 63 rotates upwards about the moving pivot point of the guide pin 64' in the second guide groove 35', from the longitudinal position of the guide rail 9, towards the position where the panel 4 is lifted at its rear end, until the rear end of the panel 4 reaches the lifted position. In this operation, the third guide pin 64" is guided in the third guide groove 35" in the upward direction to the second portion 70', thereby initializing the upward movement of the tilting lever 63 behind the moving pivot point of the guide pin 64'. During this operation, the first guide pin 64 is first guided along the horizontal groove portion 68 of the first guide groove 35, until it reaches the vertical groove portion 68', in which the first guide pin 64 is guided in the downward direction. While the first and second guide pins 64, 64' move in the respective guide slots 35, 35' during the operation of lifting the rear end of the panel 4, the third guide pin 64" leaves the third guide slot 35" at its upper end. Once the third guide pin 64" is disengaged from the third guide slot 35', the movement control and support of the tilt rod 63 is taken over by the first guide pin 64 in the guide slot 35.

[0062] With regard to the vertical movement of the rear end of the panel 4, it must be specified that a defined "tilted" position is created in which the rear end of the panel 4 is lifted, but the front end of the panel 4 is still substantially closed. This means that the front end of the panel 4 is still in contact with the seal 38 between the stationary part 7 and the panel 4. This special tilted position of the panel 4 serves as a ventilation position with which the interior of the vehicle 1 can be ventilated. Furthermore, when the panel 4 is driven from the tilted position to the rear of the roof, the front end of the panel 4 will first be lifted in an upward direction, the rear end of the panel 4 will be slightly lifted to the sliding position, and then the panel 4 will be moved to the rear of the vehicle 1, thereby opening the roof opening 3.

[0063] Therefore, it can be seen from the above description that when the second drive member 25 is unlocked via the locking groove 45 of the locking lever 41, the locking mechanism 62 in the locked position is unlocked from the front mechanism. When the third drive member 66 is locked to the locking retainer 40 via the locking lever 41, the locking mechanism 62 locks the tilt mechanism 24. In addition, the locking mechanism 62 in the sliding position is locked to the front mechanism 20 when the second drive member 25 is locked to the locking lever 41 via the locking groove 45, and unlocks the tilt mechanism 24 when the third drive member 66 is unlocked from the locking lever 40 via the locking lever 41.

[0064] Reference Fig.24A -D shows an alternative embodiment of the locking mechanism 62, wherein like elements have like reference numerals. Fig.24A Shown is a reference Fig. 22 and Fig.23 A detailed description of the locking mechanism. Fig. 24B In the embodiment of the locking mechanism of FIG. 4 , the cam 47 and the locking groove 45″ are replaced or interchanged by the locking cam 45a and the rod groove 47a. Fig.24C In the embodiment of the locking mechanism of the embodiment, the locking pin 42 of the locking rod 41 and the pin slot 44 of the locator 40 are replaced or interchanged by the locator cam 44a and the rod slot 42a. As will be understood, alternative variations can be composed of different combinations of corresponding slots and pins, for example, the hinge pin 43 of the hinge block 65 and the connecting hinge hole 43' of the locking rod 41 can also be interchanged.

[0065] exist Fig.24D In the alternative embodiment of the locking mechanism 62 shown, Fig.24A -C, the orientation of the locking mechanism and its various pins and slots is rotated by approximately 90°. Thus, in this embodiment, the pin slot 44 still comprises two portions, the first portion 44' extending in the longitudinal direction, and the second portion 44" extending perpendicularly to the first portion 44' in the cross-vehicle direction, rather than in the longitudinal direction as in Fig.24A -Extends in the vertical direction shown by C. Fig.24A-D have the same reference numerals, and the description of these figures applies accordingly. It will be appreciated that Fig.24A All variants of -C can be modified to have a locking mechanism similar to Fig.24D Therefore, various changes are possible. Fig.24D An embodiment of Fig. 22 and Fig.23 The illustration can be viewed as a bottom view rather than a side view, where the operation of the elements is similar. Fig. 22 and Fig.23 It is also possible to illustrate top views of different rotational embodiments, for example with respect to Fig.24D A top view of a mirror-symmetrical embodiment of a locking mechanism (such as a locking mechanism suitable for being positioned on opposite sides of a pair of guide rails).

[0066] Therefore, usually, the locking mechanism comprises a locking groove installed at the outer end of the second driving member, a hinge block installed at the outer end of the third driving member, a locking locator fixedly attached to the guide rail, and a locking rod slidably guided by the locking locator. One end of the locking rod is further pivotally connected to the hinge block and releasably connected to the locking groove at the opposite end. Therefore, via the movement of the second driving member, the locking rod can move between a sliding position and a tilted locking position. In the sliding position, the locking rod is unlocked in the locking locator and locked in the locking groove, while in the tilted locking position, the locking rod is locked in the locking locator and separated from the locking groove. When the locking rod is in the tilted locking position, the locking mechanism locks the tilting mechanism to the guide rail. Therefore, the locking mechanism is in the locking position. When the locking rod is in the sliding position, the locking mechanism unlocks the tilting mechanism from the guide rail. Therefore, the locking mechanism is in the sliding position.

[0067] Reference Figure 4C and Figure 4D , shows another embodiment of the operating mechanism 10, in which the front mechanism 20 is alternately constructed. The tilt mechanism 24 and the locking mechanism 62 can be combined with Figure 4A and Figure 4B, or may be implemented as one of the alternatives described. In this embodiment, the front mechanism 20 includes two front rods 21', 21". As described above, the first front rod 21' has a sliding shoe 19, which cooperates with the guide groove and insert 18 in the guide rail 9. The second front rod 21" has a curved track 52, which cooperates with the drive cam 51 of the drive slider 23, which is slidably guided along the guide rail 9'. The first front rod 21' is pivotally connected to the pivot pin 13c of the second front rod 21" by means of the pivot hole 13b. The second front rod 21" is pivotally connected to the pivot pin 13 of the pivot block 26 by means of the pivot hole 13a. In this way, the first front rod will provide sliding movement of the panel in and out of the closed position. The second front rod will provide vertical lifting or pivoting movement of the panel. Therefore, basically, at least one front rod is operably coupled to the front rod, for example, by a cam bend joint or a groove pin joint, and is pivotally connected to the pivot block. The front bar is arranged for lifting and pivoting the front edge of the first panel relative to the guide rail by driving the drive slide, in particular by operating the first drive member. Therefore, the overall function of the front mechanism 20 and the construction is the same for both embodiments as described throughout the specification.

[0068] Reference Figure 4E Another embodiment of the operating mechanism is shown. Similar elements have Figure 4A -D. The structure of the tilting mechanism 24 is similar to that of the Figure 4A Same as described for -D. Figure 4E In the embodiment, as mentioned above with reference to Fig.24D As explained in detail, the locking mechanism 62 is alternately constructed, which rotates 90° around an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction. The operation is the same, that is, when the second drive member 25 moves backward, the third drive member 66, 66' moves while the locking cam 47 is held in the locking groove 45 by the travel of the locking rod 41 through the locking pin 45 of the locking retainer 40. When the locking pin 45 enters the vertical transverse portion of the locking retainer 40, thereby separating the locking cam 47 from the locking groove 45 when it enters the transverse portion of the locking groove 45, the second drive member 25 can move further backward, while the third drive member remains stationary.

[0069] In addition, Figure 4E In the embodiment of the present invention, the front mechanism 20 is also alternately constructed. Unlike the pivot pin 13, the pivot block 26 has an outer curved profile, which enables it to pivot on a curved bottom and / or curved top surface. The drive slide 23 connected to the second drive member 25 will be driven by the first drive member 12, 12' (see Figure 3 ), and will operate the front lever 21 via the drive cam 51, as described above.

[0070] See also Figure 3and Figure 12-14 , a first hole 55 is provided on the guide rail 9. The first hole 55 is located below the tilt mechanism 24, providing space for the tilt mechanism 24 in the vertical direction when the panel 4 is in its closed position and the tilt mechanism 24 is substantially folded within the boundaries of the guide rail 9. Due to the hole 55, the slider 32 and the housing 27 can be packaged slightly lower in the vertical direction than when these parts are installed at the top of the guide slot 50.

[0071] Reference Fig.19 , the transverse guide 8 may be provided with a second hole 56 which will be located below the locking mechanism 62. In embodiments where the transverse guide is mounted (e.g. by gluing) below the fixed panel 4', it would be very expensive to remove the plywood in order to service the locking mechanism 62. To avoid this, a more convenient solution is to use the hole 56 to service the parts of the locking mechanism 62 from below.

[0072] refer to Fig. 20 ,along Figure 3 Line XX in the figure takes a cross-section across the roof system. Fig. 20 In the figure, the stationary part 7 is shown attached to the guide rail 9, which is connected to the body flange 5 by means of glue. In this figure, the stationary part 7 is located on top of the body flange 5. This is normal for top-mounted roof types, which are assembled to the body from the top. Seen in the lateral direction, the guide rail 9 is at a distance relative to the body flange 5.

[0073] In order to implement an embodiment in which the locking mechanism 62 can be placed in front of or near the roof opening 3, the second drive member and the third drive member can extend toward the front of the roof opening. Similarly, the second drive member can connect the front mechanism and the locking mechanism, while the third drive member connects the locking mechanism and the tilting mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism is located at or near the front edge of the roof opening. The elements that constitute the locking mechanism, namely the locking groove, the locking rod, the locking locator and the hinge block, can be configured so that these elements operate to provide the required kinematic movement. In such an embodiment, the rear end of the second drive member can be connected to the front of the drive slider, while the front end of the second drive member is connected to the locking rod via the locking groove. The rear end of the third drive member is connected to the front of the tilt rod, while the front end of the third drive member is connected to the locking rod via the hinge block. As described above, the locking locator and the locking rod will provide the required functional connection to transmit the operational movement. This arrangement will help to implement as described with respect to Figures 25A-26D More variations as described.

[0074] Reference Fig.25A -D and Fig.26A -D, shows the alternative Figure 2A and Figure 2BPlan views of the vehicle fixed roof 2 in several embodiments of those embodiments. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Similarly, here, for the sake of clarity, the operating mechanism 10, the pair of guide rails 9 and the transverse guide rail 8 are again schematically indicated with solid lines relative to the surface area of ​​the panels 4, 4'. The corresponding positions of the front mechanism 20, the tilting mechanism 24 and the locking mechanism 62 are also schematically indicated. The pair of guide rails 9 extend parallel to the left and right sides of the roof opening 3 towards the rear. The roof system in each roof plan view can show a certain degree of symmetry about the symmetry axis S, which is related to the presence and operation of the various components. The front and rear are relative to the direction of advance D. The various embodiments differ in whether there is a single panel 4 or two panels 4, 4', whether the transverse guide is located at the front or the rear, and whether the transverse guide 8 consists of a single guide rail or is split into two separate guide parts. Fig.25A -D and Fig.26A -D is that the operating mechanism 10 is installed below the movable panel 4 ( Fig.25A -D), or whether the transverse guides are mounted outside the surface area of ​​the movable panel 4.

[0075] exist Fig.25A In FIG. 1 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a first panel 4 and a second panel 4 ′. The transverse guide 8 is bisected and extends parallel to the rear edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted in the surface area of ​​the panel 4.

[0076] exist Fig.25B In FIG. 4 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a single panel 4. The transverse guide 8 is divided into two and extends parallel to the rear edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted in the surface area of ​​the panel 4.

[0077] exist Fig.25C In FIG. 1 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a first panel 4 and a second panel 4 ′. The transverse guide 8 is bisected and extends parallel to the front edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted in the surface area of ​​the panel 4.

[0078] exist Fig.25D In FIG. 4 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a single panel 4. The transverse guide 8 extends as a single element parallel to the front edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted in the surface area of ​​the panel 4.

[0079] exist Fig.26AIn the figure, a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a first panel 4 and a second panel 4'. The transverse guide 8 extends as a single element parallel to the front edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted outside the surface area of ​​the panel 4, below the roof 2.

[0080] exist Fig.26B In FIG. 4 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a single panel 4. The transverse guide 8 is divided in two and extends parallel to the front edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted outside the surface area of ​​the panel 4, below the roof 2.

[0081] exist Fig.26C In the figure, a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a first panel 4 and a second panel 4'. As shown, the second rear panel 4' can be kept slim, for example to allow modular construction. The transverse guide 8 extends as a single element parallel to the rear edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted outside the surface area of ​​the panel 4, within the surface area of ​​the second panel 4'.

[0082] exist Fig.26D In FIG. 4 , a fixed roof 2 of a vehicle 1 is shown with a roof system having a single panel 4. The transverse guide 8 is divided in two and extends parallel to the rear edge of the roof opening 3. The transverse guide 8 is mounted outside the surface area of ​​the panel 4, below the roof 2.

[0083] refer to Fig. 27 , showing the Fig.25A Cross sections taken along lines A-A' and BB' are shown. Fig.28 , showing the Fig.26C Cross-sections along lines A-A' and C-C' are shown. Fig.29 , showing the Fig.26D 1 and 2. The cross section of the line A-A' and E-E' shown. In these figures, each corresponding line segment A-A' and B-B', A-A' and C-C', A-A' and E-E' is again indicated. The guide rail 9 is mounted on the stationary part 7. The front mechanism 20 and the tilt mechanism 24 are supported by the guide rail 9. The second drive member 25 and the third drive member 66' respectively connect the front mechanism and the tilt mechanism to the locking mechanism 62 supported by the transverse guide rail 8.

[0084] exist Fig. 27 In the embodiment, the transverse guide is mounted to a part of the stationary part 7', and in Fig.28 In the embodiment, it is mounted inside the second panel 4'. Fig.29 In the embodiment, the transverse guide rail 8 is mounted inside the fixed roof 2. It will be appreciated that these different ways of mounting the transverse guide rail 8 can be applied to the vehicle in appropriate circumstances. Fig.25A-D and other embodiments of 26A-D.

[0085] Throughout the specification, all parts of the operating mechanism and various embodiments of the guide rails are drawn in the corresponding figures and are mainly described in this document on the left or right side of the roof system. It can be understood that the roof system is equipped with left and right operating mechanisms 10 and left and right guide rails that are mirror images of each other.

[0086] With regard to the second drive member to be driven in and out of the parallel rails, the transverse rails 8 may include further guide channels. Such guide channels may be formed in the transverse rails themselves, for example by extrusion, and / or they may include tubes or grooves. In particular, any distance and corner between the parallel rails 9 and the transverse rails 8 may include cable tubes or drive grooves. See Figure 2A and Figure 3 , the transverse guide includes a first guide rail 71 for each parallel guide rail 9, which is used to guide the second drive member 25 of the corresponding parallel guide rail 9. The transverse guide also includes a second guide channel 72 for each parallel guide rail 9, which is used to guide the third drive member 66 of the corresponding parallel guide rail 9. In a convenient case, the guide channels 71, 72 can be formed as an integral part. Specifically, when the transverse guide is implemented as a single element, the second guide channel 72 for two third drive members 66 can be provided as an integral single guide channel. Similarly, the first guide channel 71 for the corresponding second drive member is formed as an integral single guide channel. The length of the guide channel required for guiding the third drive rod will be less than the length of the guide channel required for guiding the second drive rod, because once the tilt mechanism is locked, the third drive rod will no longer travel, and the second drive rod can continue to travel until the fully open position of the first panel is reached. In this way, the number of separate independent guide rail channels in the transverse guide can be reduced.

[0087] Still refer to Figure 3 Each guide channel may further include a turning guide channel portion 71', 72' for each parallel guide rail 9. The turning guide channel portions 71', 72' are configured to allow the second drive member 25 and / or the third drive member 66 to extend to the corresponding guide channels 71, 72 around a corner.

[0088] from Fig.25A -D and Fig.26A-D, it can be clearly seen that at least one transverse guide 8 can be located near the front end of the parallel guides. At least one transverse guide 8 can also be located near the rear end of the parallel guides 9. The at least one transverse guide can also be located at the rear end away from the parallel guides 9. The at least one transverse guide can also be placed at a position away from both the front and rear ends of the parallel guides 9. In the latter case, the at least one transverse guide 8 can be close to or located in a luggage compartment, a luggage compartment or another concealed compartment. In yet another embodiment, the at least one transverse guide 8 can be supported by the stationary part 7 and located below the first panel. It can also be located below the second panel 4' or other parts of the roof panel 2, or in front and behind the roof opening 3.

[0089] Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary embodiments of the present invention, which can be implemented in various forms. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but only as a basis for the claims, and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt the present invention in any appropriate detailed structure as expected. Specifically, the features proposed and described in separate dependent claims can be applied in combination, and any advantageous combination of such claims is disclosed herein.

[0090] Furthermore, it is contemplated that the structural elements may be generated by applying three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques. Thus, any reference to a structural element is intended to encompass any computer-executable instructions that instruct a computer to generate such a structural element by three-dimensional printing techniques or similar computer-controlled manufacturing techniques. Furthermore, any such reference to a structural element is also intended to encompass a computer-readable medium carrying such computer-executable instructions.

[0091] In addition, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but to provide an easily understood description of the present invention. The terms "one" or "a (kind)" etc. used herein are defined as one or more. The term "plurality" used herein is defined as two or more. The term "other" used herein is defined as at least one second or more. The terms "including" and / or "having" used herein are defined as including (i.e., open language). The term connection used herein is defined as connection, although not necessarily direct.

[0092] It will be apparent from the invention described that the same content may be presented in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A roof system for a vehicle (1), the vehicle (1) having a fixed roof (2) with a roof opening (3), the roof system comprising: a stationary portion (7) configured to be attached to the fixed roof (2); at least one first panel (4) movably supported on the stationary portion (7) and configured to close the roof opening (3) in a closed position and to be movable at least rearwardly to an open position in which the roof opening (3) is at least partially opened, the first panel having a front edge and a rear edge; a pair of parallel guide rails (9) supported by the stationary portion (7) and extending in a longitudinal direction generally parallel to opposite sides of the roof opening (3); at least one transverse guide rail (8) extending in a direction forming a certain angle with respect to the pair of parallel guide rails (9); as well as At least one operating mechanism (10) for each parallel guide rail (9) for operating the first panel (4), wherein each corresponding operating mechanism comprises: a front mechanism (20) which is movable in the guide rail (9) in the longitudinal direction and is capable of moving the front edge of the first panel (4) in the vertical direction, the front mechanism (20) comprising a panel bracket (22) attached to the first panel (4); A tilting mechanism (24) capable of moving the rear edge of the first panel (4) in a vertical direction, the tilting mechanism (24) comprising a sliding claw (32) slidably contacting the panel bracket (22); a locking mechanism (62) for locking the tilting mechanism (24) on the guide rail (9) so that the tilting mechanism (24) and the guide rail (9) remain stationary, so that the first panel (4) can slide relative to the stationary tilting mechanism (24), wherein the parallel guide rails (9) can slidably support the front mechanism (20) and the tilting mechanism (24) of the corresponding operating mechanism (10); and The at least one transverse guide rail (8) slidably supports a locking mechanism (62) of each corresponding operating mechanism (10).

2. The roof system according to claim 1, wherein the operating mechanism (10) further comprises: a first drive member (12, 12') operatively connecting the front mechanism (20) to the drive motor (11); a second drive member (25) operably connecting the front mechanism (20) to the locking mechanism (62); as well as A third drive member (66) operably connects the locking mechanism (62) to the tilt mechanism (24).

3. The roof system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is located near the front end of the parallel guide rails; or The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is located near the rear end of the parallel guide rail (9); or The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is located behind and away from the rear end of the parallel guide rail (9); or The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is positioned away from the front and rear ends of the parallel guide rails (9).

4. The roof system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one transverse rail is supported by the stationary part (7); and The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is located below the first panel (4).

5. The roof system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one second panel supported on the stationary part (7); wherein the first panel (4) is configured to close a first portion of the roof opening (3) in a closed position; The at least one second panel (4') is configured to close a second portion of the roof opening (3); and The at least one transverse guide rail (8) is located below the second panel.

6. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating mechanism (10) is configured as: Sliding the front mechanism (20) from the closed position to the open position, and simultaneously sliding the locking mechanism (62) to and into the locked position via the second drive member (25); Sliding the tilt mechanism (24) from the closed position to the tilt position; When the locking mechanism (62) is in the locking position, while the tilting mechanism (24) is in the tilting position, the tilting mechanism (24) is slid and locked via the third driving member (66); and While the tilt mechanism (24) is in the locked position, the front mechanism (20) is slid into the open position.

7. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating mechanism (10) is configured as: While the tilt mechanism (24) is in the locked position, sliding the front mechanism (20) from the open position to the closed position; Sliding the locking mechanism (62) out of the locking position via the second drive member (25); unlocking the tilt mechanism (24), and when the locking mechanism (62) is out of the locked position, while the tilt mechanism (24) is in the tilted position, sliding the tilt mechanism (24) toward the closed position via a third drive member (66); Sliding the tilt mechanism (24) from the tilted position to the closed position; and Slide the front mechanism (20) into the closed position.

8. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, the locking mechanism comprising: a locking groove (45) located at an outer end of the second drive member (25); a hinge block (65) located at the outer end of the third drive member (66, 66'); a locking locator (40) fixedly attached to the guide rail (9); and a locking rod (41) which is slidably guided by the locking retainer (40), pivotally connected to the hinge block (65) at one end and releasably coupled to the locking groove (45) at the other end, wherein the locking lever is movable between a sliding position and a tilt locking position via movement of a second drive member (25); When in the sliding position, the locking rod is unlocked in the locking locator (40) and locked in the locking groove (45); and When in the tilted locking position, the locking rod (41) is locked in the locking locator (40) and separated from the locking groove (45).

9. A roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking mechanism (62) in the locked position unlocks the front mechanism when the second drive member (25) is unlocked from the locking rod (41), and locks the tilt mechanism when the third drive member (66) is locked to the locking detent (40) via the locking rod (41); and The locking mechanism (62) in the sliding position is locked to the front mechanism (20) when the second drive member (25) is locked to the locking rod (41), and unlocks the tilt mechanism when the third drive member (66) is unlocked from the locking locator (40) via the locking rod (41).

10. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the front structure (20) comprises: A driving slider (23) slidably supported by the guide rail (9) and operably connected to a first driving member (12) for driving the driving slider (23); a pivot block (26) slidably supported by the guide rail (9); and at least one front rod (21, 21', 21") operatively coupled to the drive slide (23) via a cam-bend joint (51, 52) and pivotally connected to the pivot block (26), The at least one front rod (21, 21', 21'') is arranged to lift and pivot the front edge of the first panel (4) relative to the guide rail (9) by driving the driving slider (23).

11. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tilting mechanism (24) comprises: a sliding guide (36) which is slidably guided along the guide rails (9, 60) and is capable of moving one end of the tilting rod (63) in a substantially vertical direction, The tilting rod (63) is pivotally connected to the sliding claw (32) or the lifting rod (30, 30') at one end so as to move the sliding claw (32) in a vertical direction.

12. Roof system according to any of the preceding claims, the transverse rail (8) comprising: a first guide channel (71) for each parallel guide rail (9) for guiding a second drive member (25, 25') of the corresponding parallel guide rail (9); A second guide channel (72) for each parallel guide rail (9) is provided for guiding a third drive member (66, 66') of the corresponding parallel guide rail (9).

13. Roof system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first guide channel (71) for the respective drive member is formed as an integral single guide channel.

14. Roof system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second guide channel (72) for the respective drive member is formed as an integral single guide channel.

15. The roof system according to any one of the preceding claims, each guide channel further comprising: A turning guide channel portion (71', 72') for each parallel guide rail (9) is configured to allow the second drive member (25, 25') and / or the third drive member (66, 66') to extend around the corner to the corresponding guide channel (71, 72).

Images