Convertible top cover - protective cover

Abstract

Convertible top cover (1) with a convertible top cover, which is adaptable, characterized in that a convertible top cover can be easily attached (attached and separated again) to an existing convertible top cover and its rods, including mounting strips and profile rails, using additional and different connection techniques. This allows the convertible top cover to be used as a winter convertible top cover, or as an emergency convertible top cover, or as a replacement cover, within a very short time.

Description

[0001] The invention is intended to enable convertible drivers to drive their convertibles not only with the conventional soft top or hardtop we're already familiar with, but also to use a cost-effective alternative, for example, in the fall and winter months. To achieve this, it's important that the installation and removal of a soft top cover - protective cover - is designed in such a way that a convertible driver can, among other things, perform the replacement themselves. The following key requirements are listed: 1. It is important and advantageous for the invention that a convertible top cover - protective cover is modified before assembly and / or production in such a way that it can be connected to an already assembled convertible top cover in a form-fitting and force-fitting manner. 2. It is equally important that the convertible top frame and parts of the bodywork, including the add-on parts of the convertible, are modified so that an additional convertible top cover or protective cover can be attached to it. The key modifications here are those that need to be made so that an existing convertible top cover, a convertible top, a protective cover and frame and add-on parts, e.g. end mounting strips, mounting strips, clamping strips, plastic profiles, rear window frame, etc., can be connected and attached to a rear mirror, bodywork or end strip of a convertible and / or to the front front bow of a convertible top frame. 3. Suitable connectors can be, for example: zippers of all kinds, but preferably separable waterproof zippers, terminal strips, piping or piping rails, fixed and / or flexible rails, profile rails made of different materials. Basically, any known type of connection that can be connected to each other with a force-fitting and form-fitting connection and can be removed again without damage, as required. Likewise, the connector adapters must ensure that they allow an additional convertible top or slipcover to be attached to it with a form-fitting and force-fitting connection, in addition to an existing convertible top cover. This can also be done reciprocally!

[0002] Today's convertibles are often not just a hobby, but are also considered a capital investment. If you drive a convertible year-round, you expose it to the fall and winter. Of course, convertibles are perfectly capable of withstanding this harsh, wet, and cold weather, but using them in winter leaves its mark. The soft top fabric can be exposed to extreme temperatures and dirt, which can leave visible marks over time, especially if you don't have a garage, for example. Convertibles are often driven in early spring and during the summer months. Convertibles are literally rescued from their winter hibernation by taking them out of their garages or hardtops.

[0003] Due to mild temperatures, driving with a soft top is a true pleasure. However, when snow and ice appear in the fall and winter months, convertible drivers rely on their hardtops or a seasonal license plate, which may be connected to a garage. Those without a garage can use a hood, a waterproof tarpaulin, under which the convertible sits.

[0004] There are also so-called protective covers and textile garages for vehicles. However, these don't allow a convertible to be driven with such structures during a trip, as the security of a tightly fitted cover isn't guaranteed, as is the case with my invention.

[0005] These attachments are usually only fixed and serve only to protect a vehicle or convertible from bad weather, even while driving a convertible.

[0006] The current situation is that there are currently hardly any solutions other than having a new convertible top cover fitted if the top cover is damaged or very dirty.

[0007] The invention solves this problem by producing a convertible top cover (protective cover) that can be connected to and supplemented by an existing convertible top cover and its rods. The convertible top cover, which is detached at the sides and can correspond to the original cover, remains on the vehicle. Only the lateral fastenings - plug-in, clamp-in or adhesive connections of a convertible, which are often held in place by clips in a U-profile, for example, are undone. The profiles, which are usually sewn onto the convertible top, then lie detached and unattached on the original convertible top cover and rods. Once the protective cover has been hooked onto the convertible top rods using its fastening profiles, this too is secured, for example by clips, in a U-profile-like channel where the actual convertible top cover was previously located.

[0008] This is achieved by producing a type of slip cover that is compatible with a convertible top cover and its vehicle body / frame. Apart from a few modifications to the cut and fastenings, the slip cover is almost identical to an original convertible top cover. The convertible top cover - slip cover and its seams along a convertible roof can be offset by a few centimeters so that the seams of an already fitted convertible top and the seams of a slip cover do not necessarily clash. However, the slip cover can differ from an original convertible top cover in terms of color, materials, and design. Just as is the case with an original convertible top cover, care is taken during production to seal the seams of the slip cover - convertible top cover with seam protectant.

[0009] The front of the convertible top cover and the convertible rear window area, along with the convertible top trim strip (mounting strip), also feature connections to an original cover or its body, allowing for easy attachment or removal of the protective cover from the convertible top cover. These can be any fastening method known to us that allows for simplified and quick, force-locking and form-fitting connections, even reciprocally.

[0010] Another advantage is a convertible top design that allows, for example, a rear window to be installed or removed separately from the convertible top cover. This allows, for example, a clamping profile to be attached to the rear window cutout in the protective cover. When the protective cover is fitted, the attached clamping profile slides between the convertible top cover and a rear window, which was previously loosened slightly to make space for the clamping profile of the protective cover. This has the advantage that a protective cover can be manufactured in such a way that a convertible window can still be used without any restrictions in terms of shape and force fit (visibility and heatability), as is shown, for example, in patent claim no.: 20 2024 001 991 Modular rear window frame - adapter for vehicles (convertibles).

[0011] This has the further advantage that corresponding plug-in, clamp-in or other connections, which can be found, for example, on a convertible top cover and / or on the convertible top rods, are compatible and easily connected to one another in a force-fitting and form-fitting manner and at the same time incorporates or uses the design variants provided by the manufacturer. This ensures that the invention does not endanger or impair the use of a convertible while driving. The protective cover thus becomes a protective cover that is suitable for driving and everyday use. It can also be advantageous to modify the transition points from the convertible top cover and rods to the body seals so that the protective cover is replaced at these points by, for example, sewing on a thinner and more flexible material / tape or profile strips, which therefore creates less bulk and protects the surrounding seals, etc.This can be particularly advantageous if a slipcover is double-walled or made of a thicker material.

[0012] As with a hardtop, it is recommended that you keep the convertible top cover, which has a protective cover, closed during bad weather. Furthermore, connectors can be attached to a protective cover which connect the entry sides and its cover in such a way that the protective cover sits optimally on the convertible top frame, preventing wind and flapping noises from causing damage. The material to be connected can be located between a convertible top cover and a roof liner or convertible top upholstery, if a convertible is equipped with a vehicle roof liner or convertible top upholstery. Elastic drawstring and fastening straps can also be attached to a convertible top cover to provide support. My invention is similar to using a hardtop, or rather, a garage.Both serve to protect against bad weather conditions, the only difference being that the protective cover makes it possible to remain mobile with a convertible and at the same time offers a soft top cover that is clean, dry and firmly in place when driving in winter. Since our invention is a protective cover, materials other than just conventional soft top fabrics can be used for it. Examples include outdoor fabrics that can be lightfast, elastic and also dimensionally stable. These can also serve as insulation. The materials used can also represent both in one. Films of all kinds are preferred; these can be made in a variety of ways, in terms of color, shape and strength. The materials should preferably be sewn, glued, sprayed or similar, such as weldable or vulcanizable.Films (vehicle films) can also be applied or printed on a vehicle and its protective covers. Essentially, any material / fabric suitable for outdoor use is suitable, provided they are lightfast, UV-resistant, waterproof, have high tensile and tear resistance, and are washable (e.g., cotton covers). The covers therefore possess all the properties necessary for outdoor use.

[0013] Since our protective cover can be used seasonally, our materials are primarily specialized for protection and preservation, as well as the strength of a protective cover or convertible top cover, and therefore do not necessarily have to have a long service life like conventional convertible top covers. For older convertibles, instead of retrofitting profile strips, we recommend using separable zippers (attached to the convertible top cover and the convertible top rods). These zippers can be attached to all of the manufacturer's designated fastening points on the convertible top cover, both retrospectively and during production. This includes, and especially, the area around the film window, so that a clear view to the rear is guaranteed.

[0014] Divisible zippers can also be attached to convertible top covers with newer origins (with fixed glass panes). These are preferably used at the front of the convertible top cover and at the rear of the convertible top cover and / or its body. This also applies to the corresponding connecting clamps and profile strips.

[0015] Finally, it should be mentioned that any relevant additional adapter fastenings can be attached to a convertible top cover and / or a protective cover as well as to a convertible top rod and its vehicle body, which make it possible to fasten (mount) an additional convertible top protective cover with a force and a form-fitting connection. The fastening modules - adapters can vary depending on the vehicle type, but the decisive factor is that they make it possible to additionally attach a protective cover and do so alternately. Advantages - The advantage can be that a convertible with a soft top can be used all year round without being exposed to greater levels of dirt and wear than before. - The advantage can be that vehicles retain heat longer and more effectively than before thanks to a protective cover. Furthermore, a winter top can provide more insulation. - One advantage is that a convertible top cover can also be considered a type of emergency cover. This would be the case if, for example, unexpected damage to the convertible top occurs due to environmental influences such as hail, storms, vandalism, or wear and tear on the convertible top. The advantage can be having a cost-effective solution in the form of a winter or emergency top. A typical case is taking a convertible on vacation, perhaps even abroad. A new top always requires an appointment with a car upholsterer, and during peak season, waiting times can reach several weeks or months. A protective cover, on the other hand, can be easily ordered online and installed by the owner themselves. - The advantage can be that an existing soft top is more durable due to the protective cover in winter. - The advantage can be that a protective cover for a convertible top is much cheaper than, for example, a hardtop. - Another advantage is that a slipcover is much easier to store than, for example, a hardtop. - The advantage can also be that, due to the different materials of fabrics, it can offer much more variety in terms of design and appearance. - Another advantage can be that the wear and tear on convertible top covers is reduced, which in turn can lead to more resources and environmental awareness. - Another advantage may be that the owner of a convertible no longer needs a hardtop or garage. - The advantage can also be that an existing original convertible top gets fewer pressure points and creases than before, since the convertible top cover does not have to spend the whole time folded in the convertible top box during the winter months, as is usual.

Claims

[1] Convertible top cover - protective cover (1) with a protective cover for convertibles, which is adaptable characterized by That a convertible top cover can be easily attached (attached and then separated again) to an existing convertible top cover and its rods, including mounting strips and profile rails, using additional and different connection techniques. This allows the convertible top cover to be used in a very short time as a winter convertible top cover, or even as an emergency convertible top cover, or as a replacement cover. [2] Convertible top cover - protective cover (2) according to claim 1. characterized bythat the convertible top cover can be made from different materials, which can be used, for example, in outdoor areas. This can include all kinds of convertible top materials, materials of all kinds and with all properties to meet the respective requirements. These can be films, transparent films of varying thicknesses and stretch properties. Gluable and adhesive films, or spray films can be used. They can be sewn, printable and weldable films. There can also be films that can be combined with other materials using water or similar. The materials used can be processed in multiple layers, so that, for example, a transparent film forms an outer skin and a second layer underneath or on top can form a layer for heat, insulation and design in terms of shape, colours and patterns (3D printing).The fastening materials - adapters - can be made of injection molding, plastics engineering, metal, plastic, wood, or other materials. The key is that they can create a firm and strong connection that can also be removed again. This connection can also be used interchangeably. [3] Convertible top cover - protective cover (3) according to claim 1. characterized byThat the connectors or adapters on a convertible top cover, a convertible top rod and its mounting strips all around, can be connected to a convertible top cover, and can also be separated again. The connector adapters can create any connection method known to us and can also be detachable. Preferably, these can be, for example, separable waterproof zippers, piping rails, clamping strips, plastic profiles, and flexible piping flags. Ultimately, the connections or connection types can also have these properties reciprocally. [4] Convertible top cover - protective cover (4) according to claim 1. characterized by that the convertible top covers - protective covers can be provided with seam protectors and welding techniques which guarantee watertightness. [5] Convertible top cover - protective cover (5) according to claim 1. Characterized bythat a convertible top cover - protective cover around a rear window cutout has glued or removable glass pane adapters (frames) - connectors, which can be attached to both a convertible top cover and a convertible top protective cover, so that the view through a glass pane is not restricted by the additional use of a convertible top protective cover. [6] Convertible top cover (6) according to claim 1. characterized by that a convertible top protective cover can be used closed. [7] Convertible top cover protector (7) according to claim 1. characterized by that the convertible top cover - protective cover can also be used when open, ie the convertible top can be roadworthy even with a protective cover despite the main convertible top being used. [8] Convertible top cover - protective cover (8) according to claim 1. characterized byThat all types of films can be applied to a convertible top cover before, during, and after its manufacturing process. This can also be done by spraying, painting, gluing, etc., or airbrushing. [9] Convertible top cover - protective cover (9) according to claim 1. characterized by that a convertible top cover - protective cover can also have all kinds of labels for advertising purposes, for example. [10] Convertible top cover - protective cover (10) according to claim 1. characterized by The connection techniques for the convertible top cover to the protective cover and its body may differ from those of the manufacturer. The connection options are designed to produce convertible top protective covers and convertible top covers individually for different vehicle types. [11] Convertible top cover - protective cover (11) according to claim 1. characterized bythat the connector profiles such as zippers, piping, piping rails, clamping strips are preferably sewn, glued, clamped, riveted, screwed, welded or connected to one another in another way so that a form-fitting and force-fitting connection can be created in the end.