WO2012072918A1 - Retractable roof for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Retractable roof for a motor vehicle Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2012072918A1
WO2012072918A1 PCT/FR2011/052738 FR2011052738W WO2012072918A1 WO 2012072918 A1 WO2012072918 A1 WO 2012072918A1 FR 2011052738 W FR2011052738 W FR 2011052738W WO 2012072918 A1 WO2012072918 A1 WO 2012072918A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
longitudinal
roof
rear window
retractable roof
fabric
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR2011/052738
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Pascal Guinois
Original Assignee
Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa filed Critical Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa
Publication of WO2012072918A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012072918A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
    • B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
    • B60J7/08—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position
    • B60J7/12—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts
    • B60J7/1226—Soft tops for convertible vehicles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
    • B60J7/00—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs
    • B60J7/08—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position
    • B60J7/12—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts
    • B60J7/14—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement
    • B60J7/143—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement for covering the passenger compartment
    • B60J7/145—Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels, e.g. rotary sunroofs of non-sliding type, i.e. movable or removable roofs or panels, e.g. let-down tops or roofs capable of being easily detached or of assuming a collapsed or inoperative position foldable; Tensioning mechanisms therefor, e.g. struts with a plurality of rigid plate-like elements or rigid non plate-like elements, e.g. with non-slidable, but pivotable or foldable movement for covering the passenger compartment at least two elements being folded in clamp-shell fashion

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a retractable roof for a motor vehicle, and to a motor vehicle equipped with such a retractable roof.
  • Figures 1a, 1b and 2a, 2b illustrate two known types of retractable roof for a motor vehicle each comprising:
  • a rigid roof lodge 1 comprising a rigid panel 10 and two side arches 1 1, respectively right and left, integral with the panel 10;
  • a rigid rear window 2 provided with a window 20 framed by a frame 21;
  • the flag 1 is connected to structural elements or box 5 of the vehicle by two pantographs 12 mounted parallel to each other and the flag 1 and operating in parallel. More specifically, the two pantographs 12 are articulated on the respective hoops 1 1 of the flag 1.
  • Each pantograph 12 comprises four axes and consists of two rods arranged in deformable parallelogram to cause the displacement of the flag 1 so that it remains substantially parallel to itself and horizontal during the movements of the retractable roof.
  • the links of the pantographs 12 are positioned on the sides and outside the roof 1, in sealing gutters or under below the arches 32, 22 respectively associated with the fabric 3 and the rear window 2; these gutters or arches 32, 22 coming in the extension of the hoops 1 1 of the flag 1.
  • each pantograph 1 2 each have a front end connected to the flag 1, at the lower edge of the arch 1 1 corresponding, and a rear end directly connected to the structural element 5 of the vehicle. At least one of the rods pantograph 1 2 is connected to an actuator (not shown), such as an electric cylinder, to automatically control the movement of the roof 1 roof retractable.
  • an actuator such as an electric cylinder
  • the holding members 91, 92 described above and detailed below which serve to ensure the maintenance of the fabric 3 between the roof 1 and the rear window 2 and also between the two gutters or arches 32, and more particularly to ensure the maintenance or tensioning of the central zone of the fabric 3 so that it has a curved shape (not hollow and not sagging) which offers an aesthetic and a clear aerodynamics while allowing the evacuation rainwater and washing.
  • transverse ribs 91, 92 fixed transversely between the rods of the pantographs 1 2 as transverse members of the web 3.
  • These transverse ribs 91, 92 extend in the transverse direction of the transverse ribs. vehicle, from right to left, and may have either a substantially rectilinear or curved shape (as in the example of Figures 1a and 1b with the whales 91) is a hollow shape and bump (as in the example of Figures 2a and 2b with the whales 92).
  • transverse ribs 92 of Figures 2a and 2b are shaped so that the fabric 3 has a shape having a transversely variable curve, with two portions 39a bump framing a recessed central portion 39b.
  • these transverse whales 92 have the risk that the web 3 collapses between each bump portion 39a obtained by the transverse ribs 92, and also collapses between each transverse whale 92.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a retractable roof which solves at least in part the aforementioned drawbacks, by providing a retractable roof that allows the outer flexible fabric to offer a curvature or a variable and marked wave, without the canvas does not collapse.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a retractable roof which provides rigidity and protection against intrusions in the most sensitive area, namely the interlayer portion, while being easily retractable inside the trunk compartment.
  • a retractable roof for a motor vehicle of the type comprising:
  • a rigid rear window including a window
  • retractable roof is movable between:
  • the retractable roof according to the invention being remarkable in that the holding members comprise at least two longitudinal holding members rigidly arranged side by side and each having a hinged front end on the roof and a rear end hinged to the rear window.
  • These longitudinal retention members have the function of ensuring the maintenance of the central zone of the flexible outer fabric, between the roof and the rear window, and more particularly to ensure the tensioning of the central zone of this fabric so that it has a curvature or a variable and marked undulation which marries these longitudinal members of maintenance.
  • the invention makes it possible to obtain such a curve or such a corrugation for the outer flexible fabric, while offering increased rigidity and protection against intrusions compared to the aforementioned transverse ribs.
  • these longitudinal support members may have a width (dimension in the transverse direction of the vehicle) greater or greater, greater than the width of the transverse ribs, which will contribute to the robustness of the retractable roof according to the invention, and which will allow reduce or eliminate the lines of projection of the flexible outer fabric.
  • each longitudinal retaining member is hinged to the roof by a pivot connection directly connecting said front end to said roof.
  • each longitudinal retaining member is articulated on the rear window by means of an articulation piece comprising a first end pivotally mounted on the longitudinal retaining member and a second end pivotally mounted on the rear window.
  • This articulation piece thus forms a double articulation for each longitudinal retaining member which makes it possible to keep the outer flexible fabric taut in the extended position of the retractable roof, while allowing the folding of this retractable roof to relax the flexible fabric. exterior to limit the stresses on this canvas and allow its storage in the trunk compartment by keeping it relaxed.
  • each hinge piece is supported on the top of the rear window in the extended position of the retractable roof.
  • This embodiment makes it possible to block the rotation of each articulation part downwards, and thus to keep the flexible outer fabric stretched in the extended position of the retractable roof; this canvas is stretched over these hinge parts, it is the tension of the fabric that prevents each hinge piece from rising upwards.
  • the rear window comprises a transverse front edge having a degree defined by a free low wall and an inclined wall bordering said free bottom wall, the second end of each articulation piece is pivotally mounted on said inclined wall, and the first end of each hinge piece is supported on the top of said free bottom wall in the extended position of the retractable roof.
  • the outer flexible fabric can extend substantially coplanar with the rear window, that is to say without vertical recess, while achieving the advantageous double articulation described above between each longitudinal member of maintenance and the rear window.
  • At least one of the longitudinal holding members consists of a substantially flat oblong piece.
  • the use of such an oblong and substantially flat piece (that is to say having a reduced thickness compared to its length and its width) makes it possible to achieve the curves or undulations desired for the flexible outer fabric, while ensuring rigidity and intrusion protection and while providing sufficient compactness for storage in the trunk compartment.
  • the or each oblong piece may have a width greater than 100 millimeters, or even greater than 200 millimeters, which will contribute to the robustness of the retractable roof.
  • the or each oblong piece may have a longitudinal section of curved or curved shape, to give the desired curved shape to the outer flexible fabric.
  • the or each oblong piece may have a cross section of curved or curved shape, in particular to limit the vertical dimensions of the oblong piece and increase the space available to the occupants of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.
  • each oblong piece may have a cross section of progressive shape, between its front end and its end rear, so that each longitudinal holding member can vary in shape and height depending on the desired style for the stretched outer flexible fabric.
  • the longitudinal holding members comprise at least one right longitudinal member and one left longitudinal member disposed on either side of a longitudinal median plane of the retractable roof, and the outer flexible fabric is pressed on top of said longitudinal members right. and left in the extended position of the retractable roof.
  • the longitudinal retention members comprise at least one central longitudinal member interposed between the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric has a central envelope which surrounds the or each central longitudinal member and which comprises, on the one hand, a lower portion plated on the bottom of the or each central longitudinal member in the extended position of the retractable roof and, on the other hand, an upper portion which covers the top of the or each central longitudinal member.
  • the or each central longitudinal member may be shifted downwardly relative to the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric is pulled downwards by this or these central longitudinal members, between the two bumps obtained through the longitudinal members right and left.
  • the flexible outer fabric passes below this or each central longitudinal member (with the lower portion of the central envelope pressed against the or each central longitudinal member) to form the hollow.
  • the central envelope finally has an upper portion which covers the top of the or each central longitudinal member (without necessarily coming into contact with this or these central longitudinal members) for reasons both aesthetic and sealing the retractable roof.
  • the retractable roof further comprises at least one longitudinal cable having a front end fixed to the roof and a rear end fixed to the rear window, and the or each longitudinal cable is hung on the underside of the canvas.
  • flexible outer in particular by means of a hem, for tensioning the flexible outer fabric laterally between the top of the longitudinal members right and left and the or each longitudinal cable.
  • the or each longitudinal cable can be shifted downward relative to the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric is pulled downwards by this or these longitudinal cables, between the two bumps obtained through the longitudinal members right and left, to form the hollow.
  • the retractable roof further comprises an inner flexible lining cloth, disposed below the outer flexible fabric and the holding members, and layers of insulating material arranged on either side laterally holding members between the outer flexible fabric and the inner flexible liner.
  • Each holding member may be made of an insulating material, so that it is not necessary to cover the top and / or bottom of these holding members by layers of insulating material.
  • insulating material so that it is not necessary to cover the top and / or bottom of these holding members by layers of insulating material.
  • the invention also relates to a motor vehicle equipped with a retractable roof according to the invention, wherein the roof and the rear window are articulated on the structure or body of the vehicle.
  • FIG. 1a already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a first known type in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric nor the rear window;
  • - Figure 1b already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 1a, in the deployed position and with the outer flexible fabric and the rear window;
  • FIG. 2a is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a second known type in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric nor the rear window;
  • FIG. 2b is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 2a, in the deployed position and with the canvas and the rear window;
  • FIG. 3a is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a first embodiment of the invention and comprising an unglazed flag in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric;
  • FIG. 3b is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 3a, in the deployed position and with the outer flexible fabric;
  • Figure 3c is a view similar to that of Figure 3a of a retractable roof according to the first embodiment of the invention and comprising a glazed roof;
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic longitudinal and vertical sectional view of the retractable roof of Figures 3a and 3b, in the deployed position;
  • FIGS. 5a to 5c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a section plane of the right or left longitudinal support member, illustrating the displacement of this longitudinal support member. right or left of the deployed position (Figure 5a) to the retracted position ( Figure 5c) through an intermediate position ( Figure 5b);
  • FIGS. 6a to 6c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a sectional plane of the central longitudinal support member, illustrating the displacement of this central longitudinal support member of the extended position ( Figure 6a) to the retracted position ( Figure 6c) through an intermediate position ( Figure 6b);
  • FIGS. 7a to 7c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in FIG. a sectional plan of the flag, illustrating the displacement of this flag from the extended position ( Figure 7a) to the retracted position ( Figure 7c) through an intermediate position ( Figure 7b);
  • FIGS. 8a to 8c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a sectional plane of the rear window, illustrating the displacement of this rear window from the deployed position (FIG. 8a) to the retracted position (Figure 8c) through an intermediate position (Figure 8b);
  • FIGS. 9a and 9b are partial diagrammatic views in transverse and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in sectional planes of the outer flexible fabric situated in the front part of this fabric (FIG. 9a) and in the rear part this canvas ( Figure 9b) where the central hollow of the canvas is more pronounced than the front part;
  • FIG. 9c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional and vertical view of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in substantially the same sectional plane at the rear of the outer flexible fabric as in FIG. 9b, with the illustration of FIG. an inner flexible liner and layers of insulating material disposed between the outer flexible fabric and the inner flexible liner;
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a second embodiment of the invention, in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric;
  • FIGS. 11a and 11b are partial diagrammatic views in transverse and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIG. 10, in section planes of the outer flexible fabric located in front of this fabric (FIG. ) and in the rear part of this fabric ( Figure 1 1 b) where the central hollow of the fabric is more pronounced than the front part.
  • FIG. 3a to 9c illustrate a first embodiment of the invention
  • Figures 10 to 11b illustrate a second embodiment of the invention.
  • the retractable roof 1 comprises:
  • a rigid roof lodge 1 comprising a rigid panel 1 0 and two side arches 1 1, respectively right and left, integral with the panel 1 0, possibly incorporating a window 1 3 on the panel 1 0 in the example with glazed flag shown in Figure 3c;
  • a rigid rear window 2 provided with a window 20 framed by a frame 21;
  • the flag 1 is connected to structural elements or box 5 of the vehicle by two pantographs 1 2 mounted parallel to each other and the flag 1 and operating in parallel. These pantographs 12 having been described above will not be described again and we will usefully refer to the description above for these pantographs 1 2.
  • FIGS. 7a to 7c illustrate the displacement of this flag 1 from the deployed position to in the retracted position, while remaining horizontal during the movements of the retractable roof.
  • the rear window 2 is connected to the structural or body elements 5 of the vehicle by two links 23 mounted parallel to each other on either side of the rear window 2 and operating in parallel.
  • Each link 23 comprises two opposite ends pivotally mounted respectively on one side of the frame 21 and on the corresponding structural element or box 5.
  • Figures 8a to 8c illustrate the movement of the rear window 2 from the deployed position to the retracted position.
  • the frame 21 has a transverse front edge having a degree, that is to say a step shape, defined by a free bottom wall 24 and an inclined wall 25 bordering the free bottom wall 24.
  • the fabric 3 has two opposite transverse edges, respectively front and rear, which are respectively fixed on the rear transverse edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1 and on the front transverse edge frame 21 of the rear window 2, for example by gluing, welding, riveting, screwing or other equivalent attachment means.
  • the holding members of the outer flexible fabric 3 comprise two lateral longitudinal members 41, respectively right and left, disposed on either side of a longitudinal median plane of the retractable roof, and consist of parts oblong substantially flat, that is to say having a reduced thickness compared to the length and width.
  • the lateral longitudinal members 41 each have a front end articulated on the roof 1, and more specifically on the transverse rear edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1, by a pivot connection 43 directly connecting said front end to said panel 1 0 of the roof 1; this pivot connection 43 is performed around a transverse pivot axis and horizontal.
  • the lateral longitudinal members 41 each have a rear end hinged to the rear window 2, and more specifically to the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, via a hinge part 44 comprising:
  • a second end 46 pivotally mounted on the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
  • the first end 45 and the second end 46 are pivotally mounted about transverse and horizontal pivot axes.
  • each hinge piece 44 is supported on the top of the rear window 2, and more specifically the first end 45 of each hinge piece 44 is supported on the top of the free bottom wall 24 of the front transverse edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, thus preventing the articulation piece 44 from pivoting downwards.
  • each articulation piece 44 is pivotally mounted on the inclined wall 25 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
  • the longitudinal retention members further comprise a central longitudinal member 42 interposed between the two lateral longitudinal members 41.
  • This central longitudinal member 42 is also constituted by an oblong and substantially flat piece.
  • the central longitudinal member 42 has a front end articulated on the roof 1, and more specifically on the transverse rear edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1, by a pivot connection 47 directly connecting said front end to said panel 10 of the roof 1; this pivot connection 47 is performed around a transverse pivot axis and horizontal.
  • the central longitudinal member 42 has a rear end hinged to the rear window 2, and more specifically to the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, via a hinge part 48 comprising:
  • a second end 40 pivotally mounted on the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
  • the first end 49 and the second end 40 are pivotally mounted about transverse and horizontal pivot axes.
  • the first end 49 of the articulation piece 48 rests on the top of the rear window 2, and more specifically the first end 49 of the sun room.
  • articulation 48 is supported on the top of the free bottom wall 24 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, thus preventing the articulation piece 48 from pivoting downwards.
  • the second end 40 of the articulation piece 48 is pivotally mounted on the inclined wall 25 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
  • the fabric 3 In the deployed position of the retractable roof, to give the fabric 3 a corrugated shape with two longitudinal bumps 33 flanking a longitudinal recess 34, the fabric 3 is configured as follows:
  • the fabric 3 is plated and stretched on top of the longitudinal longitudinal members 41 in the deployed position of the retractable roof;
  • the fabric 3 has a central envelope which surrounds the central longitudinal member 42 and which comprises:
  • the fabric 3 has a variable undulation between the front and the back, with a hollow 34 more pronounced at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front.
  • This variation is obtained by acting on the relative positioning of the central longitudinal member 42 with respect to the lateral longitudinal members 41, on the shape of the longitudinal members 41 and 42, and on the shape and positioning of the upper portion 36 of the central envelope of the canvas 3.
  • the central longitudinal member 42 is more downwardly offset with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41 at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front of the fabric 3.
  • the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2 also has a wavy shape, as can be seen in Figure 3a.
  • each longitudinal member 41, 42 may vary in shape and height depending on the desired style for the fabric 3.
  • the fabric 3 is almost flat towards the front of the vehicle, then its curvature becomes very marked when approaching from the rear and found for example the birth of the curve formed in the window 20 of the rear window 2.
  • the lateral longitudinal members 41 may have a cross-section curved or curved upwards, in particular to limit clutter in the cabin.
  • this retractable roof further comprises:
  • the retaining members 41, 42 are also made of an insulating material, and thus provides an insulating function, as well as the layers of insulating material 70, so that it is not necessary to have such layers of insulating material 70 above and / or below these holding members 41, 42.
  • the layers of insulating material 70 are only interposed between the webs 3, 7 on the sides of these holding members 41, 42.
  • Such a configuration is advantageous because it makes it possible to limit the overall thickness of the retractable roof, between the two canvases 3, 7, for example with a thickness of between approximately 12 and 20 millimeters depending on the desired level of insulation, and makes it possible to to free up space above the heads of the occupants of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
  • each cable 6 is stretched between the roof 1 and the rear window 2, for example being stretched rigid or stretched by means of resilient members such as springs.
  • each cable 6 is hooked on the underside of the fabric 3, in particular by means of a hem 60 bonded, welded or sewn under the fabric 3, to stretch the fabric 3 laterally between the top of the lateral longitudinal members 41 and the cables 6.
  • the fabric 3 is configured as follows:
  • the fabric 3 is plated and stretched on top of the longitudinal longitudinal members 41 in the deployed position of the retractable roof;
  • the fabric 3 is pulled downwards between the two lateral longitudinal members 41 by means of the cables 6 which are offset downwards with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41.
  • the fabric 3 has a variable undulation between the front and the back, with a hollow 34 more pronounced at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front.
  • This variation is obtained by adjusting the relative positioning of the cables 6 with respect to the lateral longitudinal members 41 and the shape of the lateral longitudinal members 41.
  • the cables 6 are more offset downwards with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41 at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front of the fabric 3.
  • the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2 also has a wavy shape, as can be seen in FIG.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Window Of Vehicle (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a retractable roof for a motor vehicle, including a rigid roof top (1), a rigid rear window (2), a flexible outer canvas connecting the top to the rear window, and members (41, 42) for supporting the flexible outer canvas which are inserted between the top and the rear window in order to support the canvas, said retractable roof being moveable between an extended position for covering the passenger compartment of the vehicle and a retracted position for storage in a rear luggage compartment of the vehicle. According to the invention, the supporting members include at least two rigid longitudinal supporting members (41, 42) arranged side-by-side and each having a front end pivotably connected to the top and a rear end pivotably connected to the rear window.

Description

TOIT ESCAMOTABLE POUR VEHICULE AUTOMOBILE  RETRACTABLE ROOF FOR MOTOR VEHICLE
La présente invention se rapporte à un toit escamotable pour véhicule automobile, et à un véhicule automobile équipé d'un tel toit escamotable. The present invention relates to a retractable roof for a motor vehicle, and to a motor vehicle equipped with such a retractable roof.
Les figures 1 a, 1 b et 2a, 2b illustrent deux types connus de toit escamotable pour véhicule automobile comprenant chacun :  Figures 1a, 1b and 2a, 2b illustrate two known types of retractable roof for a motor vehicle each comprising:
- un pavillon de toit 1 rigide comprenant un panneau rigide 10 et deux arceaux latéraux 1 1 , respectivement droit et gauche, solidaires du panneau 10 ;  - A rigid roof lodge 1 comprising a rigid panel 10 and two side arches 1 1, respectively right and left, integral with the panel 10;
- une lunette arrière 2 rigide, pourvue d'une vitre 20 encadrée par un cadre 21 ; a rigid rear window 2 provided with a window 20 framed by a frame 21;
- une toile souple extérieure 3 reliant le pavillon 1 à la lunette arrière 2 ; et an outer flexible fabric 3 connecting the roof 1 to the rear window 2; and
- des organes de maintien 91 , 92 de la toile souple extérieure 3 intercalés entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2 pour maintenir la toile souple extérieure 3. - Supports 91, 92 of the outer flexible fabric 3 interposed between the roof 1 and the rear window 2 to maintain the outer flexible fabric 3.
Chacun de ces deux types de toit escamotable est déplaçable entre :  Each of these two types of retractable roof can be moved between:
- une position déployée (illustrée sur les figures 1 a à 2b) dans laquelle le pavillon 1 recouvre le dessus de l'habitacle du véhicule, la lunette arrière 2 recouvre l'arrière de l'habitacle du véhicule et la toile souple 3 est tendue entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2 pour recouvrir l'habitacle tout en étant maintenue par les organes de maintien 91 , 92 ; et  - An extended position (illustrated in Figures 1 to 2b) in which the roof 1 covers the top of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the rear window 2 covers the rear of the passenger compartment and the flexible fabric 3 is stretched between the flag 1 and the rear window 2 to cover the passenger compartment while being maintained by the holding members 91, 92; and
- une position escamotée (non illustrée) dans laquelle le pavillon 1 , la lunette arrière 2, la toile souple 3 extérieure et les organes de maintien 91 , 92 sont repliés pour être rangés dans un compartiment de coffre arrière (non illustrée) du véhicule.  - A retracted position (not shown) in which the flag 1, the rear window 2, the outer flexible fabric 3 and the holding members 91, 92 are folded to be stored in a rear trunk compartment (not shown) of the vehicle.
Pour permettre le déplacement du pavillon 1 , le pavillon 1 est lié à des éléments de structure ou de caisse 5 du véhicule par deux pantographes 12 montés parallèlement de part et d'autre du pavillon 1 et fonctionnant en parallèle. Plus spécifiquement, les deux pantographes 12 sont articulés sur les arceaux 1 1 respectifs du pavillon 1 . Chaque pantographe 12 comprend quatre axes et est constitué de deux biellettes agencées en parallélogramme déformable pour provoquer le déplacement du pavillon 1 de sorte qu'il reste sensiblement parallèle à lui-même et horizontal durant les mouvements du toit escamotable. Les biellettes des pantographes 12 sont positionnées sur les côtés et à l'extérieur du pavillon 1 , dans des gouttières d'étanchéité ou sous dessous des arches 32, 22 associées respectivement à la toile 3 et à la lunette arrière 2 ; ces gouttières ou arches 32, 22 venant dans le prolongement des arceaux 1 1 du pavillon 1 . Les biellettes de chaque pantographe 1 2 ont chacune une extrémité avant liée au pavillon 1 , au niveau du bord inférieur de l'arceau 1 1 correspondant, et une extrémité arrière directement liée à l'élément de structure 5 du véhicule. L'une au moins des biellettes des pantographes 1 2 est reliée à un actionneur (non illustré), comme par exemple un vérin électrique, pour commander automatiquement le déplacement du pavillon 1 du toit escamotable. To allow the movement of the flag 1, the flag 1 is connected to structural elements or box 5 of the vehicle by two pantographs 12 mounted parallel to each other and the flag 1 and operating in parallel. More specifically, the two pantographs 12 are articulated on the respective hoops 1 1 of the flag 1. Each pantograph 12 comprises four axes and consists of two rods arranged in deformable parallelogram to cause the displacement of the flag 1 so that it remains substantially parallel to itself and horizontal during the movements of the retractable roof. The links of the pantographs 12 are positioned on the sides and outside the roof 1, in sealing gutters or under below the arches 32, 22 respectively associated with the fabric 3 and the rear window 2; these gutters or arches 32, 22 coming in the extension of the hoops 1 1 of the flag 1. The rods of each pantograph 1 2 each have a front end connected to the flag 1, at the lower edge of the arch 1 1 corresponding, and a rear end directly connected to the structural element 5 of the vehicle. At least one of the rods pantograph 1 2 is connected to an actuator (not shown), such as an electric cylinder, to automatically control the movement of the roof 1 roof retractable.
Pour tendre la toile souple extérieure 3, entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2 dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, il est connu d'employer :  To tension the outer flexible fabric 3, between the roof 1 and the rear window 2 in the deployed position of the retractable roof, it is known to use:
- un mécanisme latéral (non illustré) de tension de la toile 3, ce mécanisme étant conçu pour tendre la toile 3 dans la direction transversale du véhicule, de droite à gauche, entre les deux gouttières ou arches 32 sur lesquelles sont fixés les bords transversaux droit et gauche de la toile 3, les gouttières ou arches 32 pouvant éventuellement être couvertes par la toile 3 ; et  - A lateral mechanism (not shown) of the tension of the fabric 3, this mechanism being designed to stretch the fabric 3 in the transverse direction of the vehicle, from right to left, between the two gutters or arches 32 on which are fixed the transverse edges right and left of the fabric 3, the gutters or arches 32 possibly being covered by the fabric 3; and
- les organes de maintien 91 , 92 décrits ci-dessus et détaillés ci-après qui ont pour fonction d'assurer le maintien de la toile 3 entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2 et également entre les deux gouttières ou arches 32, et plus particulièrement d'assurer le maintien ou la mise en tension de la zone centrale de la toile 3 pour que celle-ci présente une forme bombée (non creuse et non avachie) qui offre une esthétique et un aérodynamisme évident tout en permettant l'évacuation des eaux de pluies et de lavages.  - The holding members 91, 92 described above and detailed below which serve to ensure the maintenance of the fabric 3 between the roof 1 and the rear window 2 and also between the two gutters or arches 32, and more particularly to ensure the maintenance or tensioning of the central zone of the fabric 3 so that it has a curved shape (not hollow and not sagging) which offers an aesthetic and a clear aerodynamics while allowing the evacuation rainwater and washing.
Pour assurer une telle fonction, il est connu d'employer comme organes de maintien de la toile 3 des baleines transversales 91 , 92 fixées transversalement entre les biellettes des pantographes 1 2. Ces baleines transversales 91 , 92 s'étendent selon la direction transversale du véhicule, de droite à gauche, et peuvent présenter soit une forme sensiblement rectiligne ou bombée (comme dans l'exemple des figures 1 a et 1 b avec les baleines 91 ) soit une forme en creux et en bosse (comme dans l'exemple des figures 2a et 2b avec les baleines 92).  To ensure such a function, it is known to use transverse ribs 91, 92 fixed transversely between the rods of the pantographs 1 2 as transverse members of the web 3. These transverse ribs 91, 92 extend in the transverse direction of the transverse ribs. vehicle, from right to left, and may have either a substantially rectilinear or curved shape (as in the example of Figures 1a and 1b with the whales 91) is a hollow shape and bump (as in the example of Figures 2a and 2b with the whales 92).
Les inconvénients de ces baleines transversales 91 , 92 articulées sont que ces dernières tendent la toile 3 selon des lignes saillantes et donc visibles et parfois disgracieuses, et qu'en plus elles présentent de faibles dimensions (généralement de l'ordre de 8 à 20 millimètres de largeur pour pouvoir se ranger dans le compartiment de coffre arrière) qui limitent les qualités de rigidité et de protection contre les intrusions du toit escamotable. The disadvantages of these articulated transverse whales 91, 92 are that the latter tend the fabric 3 according to salient lines and therefore visible and sometimes unsightly, and that in addition they have small dimensions (generally of the order of 8 to 20 millimeters width for can be stored in the trunk compartment) that limit the qualities of rigidity and protection against intrusions of the retractable roof.
Les baleines transversales 92 des figures 2a et 2b sont conformées pour que la toile 3 offre une forme ayant un galbe variable transversalement, avec deux parties en bosse 39a encadrant une partie centrale en creux 39b. Cependant, ces baleines transversales 92 présentent le risque que la toile 3 s'effondre entre chaque partie en bosse 39a obtenue par les baleines transversales 92, et s'effondre également entre chaque baleine transversale 92.  The transverse ribs 92 of Figures 2a and 2b are shaped so that the fabric 3 has a shape having a transversely variable curve, with two portions 39a bump framing a recessed central portion 39b. However, these transverse whales 92 have the risk that the web 3 collapses between each bump portion 39a obtained by the transverse ribs 92, and also collapses between each transverse whale 92.
Le but de l'invention est de proposer un toit escamotable qui résolve au moins en partie les inconvénients précités, en offrant un toit escamotable qui permette à la toile souple extérieure d'offrir un galbe ou une ondulation variable et marquée, sans pour autant que la toile ne s'effondre.  The object of the invention is to provide a retractable roof which solves at least in part the aforementioned drawbacks, by providing a retractable roof that allows the outer flexible fabric to offer a curvature or a variable and marked wave, without the canvas does not collapse.
Un autre but de l'invention est de proposer un toit escamotable qui offre rigidité et protection contre les intrusions dans la zone la plus sensible, à savoir la partie entoilée, tout en étant aisément escamotable à l'intérieur du compartiment de coffre arrière.  Another object of the invention is to provide a retractable roof which provides rigidity and protection against intrusions in the most sensitive area, namely the interlayer portion, while being easily retractable inside the trunk compartment.
A cet effet, elle propose un toit escamotable pour véhicule automobile, du type comprenant :  For this purpose, it proposes a retractable roof for a motor vehicle, of the type comprising:
- un pavillon de toit rigide ; - a rigid roof pavilion;
- une lunette arrière rigide, notamment pourvue d'une vitre ;  - A rigid rear window, including a window;
- une toile souple extérieure reliant le pavillon à la lunette arrière ; et  - an outer flexible canvas connecting the roof to the rear window; and
- des organes de maintien de la toile souple extérieure intercalés entre le pavillon et la lunette arrière pour maintenir la toile souple extérieure ;  - Of the holding members of the outer flexible fabric interposed between the roof and the rear window to maintain the outer flexible fabric;
où ledit toit escamotable est déplaçable entre : wherein said retractable roof is movable between:
- une position déployée dans laquelle le pavillon recouvre le dessus de l'habitacle du véhicule, la lunette arrière recouvre l'arrière de l'habitacle du véhicule et la toile souple extérieure est tendue entre le pavillon et la lunette arrière pour recouvrir l'habitacle tout en étant maintenue par les organes de maintien ; et  - An extended position in which the flag covers the top of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the rear window covers the rear of the passenger compartment of the vehicle and the outer flexible fabric is stretched between the roof and the rear window to cover the passenger compartment while being maintained by the holding members; and
- une position escamotée dans laquelle le pavillon, la lunette arrière, la toile souple extérieure et les organes de maintien sont repliés pour être rangés dans un compartiment de coffre arrière du véhicule ;  - A retracted position in which the roof, the rear window, the outer flexible fabric and the holding members are folded to be stored in a trunk compartment of the vehicle;
le toit escamotable selon l'invention étant remarquable en ce que les organes de maintien comprennent au moins deux organes longitudinaux de maintien rigides disposés côte à côte et présentant chacun une extrémité avant articulée sur le pavillon et une extrémité arrière articulée sur la lunette arrière. the retractable roof according to the invention being remarkable in that the holding members comprise at least two longitudinal holding members rigidly arranged side by side and each having a hinged front end on the roof and a rear end hinged to the rear window.
Ces organes longitudinaux de maintien ont pour fonction d'assurer le maintien de la zone centrale de la toile souple extérieure, entre le pavillon et la lunette arrière, et plus particulièrement d'assurer la mise en tension de la zone centrale de cette toile pour que celle-ci présente un galbe ou une ondulation variable et marquée qui épouse ces organes longitudinaux de maintien.  These longitudinal retention members have the function of ensuring the maintenance of the central zone of the flexible outer fabric, between the roof and the rear window, and more particularly to ensure the tensioning of the central zone of this fabric so that it has a curvature or a variable and marked undulation which marries these longitudinal members of maintenance.
En employant de tels organes longitudinaux de maintien, l'invention permet d'obtenir un tel galbe ou une telle ondulation pour la toile souple extérieure, tout en offrant une rigidité et une protection contre les intrusions accrues par rapport aux baleines transversales précitées.  By employing such longitudinal retention members, the invention makes it possible to obtain such a curve or such a corrugation for the outer flexible fabric, while offering increased rigidity and protection against intrusions compared to the aforementioned transverse ribs.
En effet, ces organes longitudinaux de maintien peuvent présenter une largeur (dimension selon la direction transversale du véhicule) plus ou grande, supérieure à la largeur des baleines transversales, qui contribueront à la robustesse du toit escamotable selon l'invention, et qui permettront de réduire voire de faire disparaître les lignes saillantes de la toile souple extérieure.  Indeed, these longitudinal support members may have a width (dimension in the transverse direction of the vehicle) greater or greater, greater than the width of the transverse ribs, which will contribute to the robustness of the retractable roof according to the invention, and which will allow reduce or eliminate the lines of projection of the flexible outer fabric.
Selon une caractéristique, l'extrémité avant de chaque organe longitudinal de maintien est articulée sur le pavillon par une liaison pivot reliant directement ladite extrémité avant audit pavillon.  According to one feature, the front end of each longitudinal retaining member is hinged to the roof by a pivot connection directly connecting said front end to said roof.
Selon une autre caractéristique, l'extrémité arrière de chaque organe longitudinal de maintien est articulée sur la lunette arrière par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce d'articulation comprenant une première extrémité montée à pivotement sur l'organe longitudinal de maintien et une seconde extrémité montée à pivotement sur la lunette arrière.  According to another characteristic, the rear end of each longitudinal retaining member is articulated on the rear window by means of an articulation piece comprising a first end pivotally mounted on the longitudinal retaining member and a second end pivotally mounted on the rear window.
Cette pièce d'articulation forme ainsi une double articulation pour chaque organe longitudinal de maintien qui permet de maintenir tendue la toile souple extérieure dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, tout en permettant lors de l'escamotage de ce toit escamotable de détendre la toile souple extérieure afin de limiter les sollicitations sur cette toile et de permettre son rangement dans le compartiment du coffre arrière en la maintenant détendue.  This articulation piece thus forms a double articulation for each longitudinal retaining member which makes it possible to keep the outer flexible fabric taut in the extended position of the retractable roof, while allowing the folding of this retractable roof to relax the flexible fabric. exterior to limit the stresses on this canvas and allow its storage in the trunk compartment by keeping it relaxed.
Dans une réalisation particulière, la première extrémité de chaque pièce d'articulation est en appui sur le dessus de la lunette arrière dans la position déployée du toit escamotable. Cette réalisation permet de bloquer la rotation de chaque pièce d'articulation vers le bas, et ainsi de conserver la toile souple extérieure tendue dans la position déployée du toit escamotable ; cette toile est tendue au-dessus de ces pièces d'articulation, c'est la tension de la toile qui empêche chaque pièce d'articulation de monter vers le haut. In a particular embodiment, the first end of each hinge piece is supported on the top of the rear window in the extended position of the retractable roof. This embodiment makes it possible to block the rotation of each articulation part downwards, and thus to keep the flexible outer fabric stretched in the extended position of the retractable roof; this canvas is stretched over these hinge parts, it is the tension of the fabric that prevents each hinge piece from rising upwards.
De façon avantageuse, la lunette arrière comporte un bord avant transversal présentant un degré défini par une paroi basse libre et une paroi inclinée bordant ladite paroi basse libre, la seconde extrémité de chaque pièce d'articulation est montée à pivotement sur ladite paroi inclinée, et la première extrémité de chaque pièce d'articulation est en appui sur le dessus de ladite paroi basse libre dans la position déployée du toit escamotable.  Advantageously, the rear window comprises a transverse front edge having a degree defined by a free low wall and an inclined wall bordering said free bottom wall, the second end of each articulation piece is pivotally mounted on said inclined wall, and the first end of each hinge piece is supported on the top of said free bottom wall in the extended position of the retractable roof.
Avec cette configuration, la toile souple extérieure peut s'étendre de manière sensiblement coplanaire à la lunette arrière, c'est-à-dire sans décrochement vertical, tout en réalisant la double articulation avantageuse décrite ci-dessus entre chaque organe longitudinal de maintien et la lunette arrière.  With this configuration, the outer flexible fabric can extend substantially coplanar with the rear window, that is to say without vertical recess, while achieving the advantageous double articulation described above between each longitudinal member of maintenance and the rear window.
Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, au moins un des organes longitudinaux de maintien est constitué d'une pièce oblongue sensiblement plate. L'emploi d'une telle pièce oblongue et sensiblement plate (c'est-à-dire présentant une épaisseur réduite comparativement à sa longueur et à sa largeur) permet de réaliser les galbes ou ondulations souhaitées pour la toile souple extérieure, tout en assurant rigidité et protection anti-intrusion et tout en offrant une compacité suffisante pour un rangement dans le compartiment de coffre arrière.  In a particular embodiment, at least one of the longitudinal holding members consists of a substantially flat oblong piece. The use of such an oblong and substantially flat piece (that is to say having a reduced thickness compared to its length and its width) makes it possible to achieve the curves or undulations desired for the flexible outer fabric, while ensuring rigidity and intrusion protection and while providing sufficient compactness for storage in the trunk compartment.
La ou chaque pièce oblongue peut présenter une largeur supérieure à 100 millimètres, voire supérieure à 200 millimètres, qui va contribuer à la robustesse du toit escamotable.  The or each oblong piece may have a width greater than 100 millimeters, or even greater than 200 millimeters, which will contribute to the robustness of the retractable roof.
La ou chaque pièce oblongue peut présenter une section longitudinale de forme incurvée ou bombée, pour donner la forme bombée souhaitée à la toile souple extérieure.  The or each oblong piece may have a longitudinal section of curved or curved shape, to give the desired curved shape to the outer flexible fabric.
La ou chaque pièce oblongue peut présenter une section transversale de forme incurvée ou bombée, pour permettre notamment de limiter l'encombrement verticale de la pièce oblongue et augmenter l'espace disponible pour les occupants de l'habitacle du véhicule automobile.  The or each oblong piece may have a cross section of curved or curved shape, in particular to limit the vertical dimensions of the oblong piece and increase the space available to the occupants of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.
La ou chaque pièce oblongue peut présenter une section transversale de forme progressive, entre son extrémité avant et son extrémité arrière, de sorte que chaque organe longitudinal de maintien peut varier en forme et en hauteur selon le style souhaité pour la toile souple extérieure tendue. The or each oblong piece may have a cross section of progressive shape, between its front end and its end rear, so that each longitudinal holding member can vary in shape and height depending on the desired style for the stretched outer flexible fabric.
Avantageusement, les organes longitudinaux de maintien comprennent au moins un organe longitudinal droit et un organe longitudinal gauche disposés de part et d'autre d'un plan médian longitudinal du toit escamotable, et la toile souple extérieure est plaquée sur le dessus desdits organes longitudinaux droit et gauche dans la position déployée du toit escamotable.  Advantageously, the longitudinal holding members comprise at least one right longitudinal member and one left longitudinal member disposed on either side of a longitudinal median plane of the retractable roof, and the outer flexible fabric is pressed on top of said longitudinal members right. and left in the extended position of the retractable roof.
Ces organes longitudinaux droit et gauche permettent de donner à la toile souple extérieure tendue une forme avec deux bosses, à droite et à gauche, qui contournent les têtes des occupants assis à droite et à gauche dans le véhicule, avec un style marqué.  These right and left longitudinal members make it possible to give the stretched flexible outer fabric a shape with two bumps, on the right and on the left, which bypass the heads of the occupants sitting to the right and left in the vehicle, with a marked style.
Pour que la toile souple extérieure tendue présente un creux entre les deux bosses obtenus grâce aux organes longitudinaux droit et gauche, deux modes de réalisation sont envisageables.  In order for the stretched outer flexible fabric to have a hollow between the two bumps obtained thanks to the right and left longitudinal members, two embodiments can be envisaged.
Dans un premier mode de réalisation, les organes longitudinaux de maintien comprennent au moins un organe longitudinal central intercalé entre les organes longitudinaux droit et gauche, et la toile souple extérieure présente une enveloppe centrale qui entoure le ou chaque organe longitudinal central et qui comprend, d'une part, une portion inférieure plaquée sur le dessous du ou de chaque organe longitudinal central dans la position déployée du toit escamotable et, d'autre part, une portion supérieure qui recouvre le dessus du ou de chaque organe longitudinal central.  In a first embodiment, the longitudinal retention members comprise at least one central longitudinal member interposed between the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric has a central envelope which surrounds the or each central longitudinal member and which comprises, on the one hand, a lower portion plated on the bottom of the or each central longitudinal member in the extended position of the retractable roof and, on the other hand, an upper portion which covers the top of the or each central longitudinal member.
Ainsi, le ou chaque organe longitudinal central peut être décalé vers le bas par rapport aux organes longitudinaux droit et gauche, et la toile souple extérieure est tirée vers le bas par ce ou ces organes longitudinaux centraux, entre les deux bosses obtenus grâce aux organes longitudinaux droit et gauche. Pour être tirée vers le bas, la toile extérieure souple passe en- dessous de ce ou chaque organe longitudinal central (avec la portion inférieure de l'enveloppe centrale plaquée contre le ou chaque organe longitudinal central) pour former le creux. L'enveloppe centrale présente enfin une portion supérieure qui recouvre le dessus du ou de chaque organe longitudinal central (sans nécessairement venir au contact de ce ou ces organes longitudinaux centraux) pour des raisons à la fois esthétiques et d'étanchéité du toit escamotable. Dans un second mode de réalisation, le toit escamotable comprend en outre au moins un câble longitudinal présentant une extrémité avant fixée sur le pavillon et une extrémité arrière fixée sur la lunette arrière, et le ou chaque câble longitudinal est accroché sur le dessous de la toile souple extérieure, notamment au moyen d'un ourlet, pour tendre la toile souple extérieure latéralement entre le dessus des organes longitudinaux droit et gauche et le ou chaque câble longitudinal. Thus, the or each central longitudinal member may be shifted downwardly relative to the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric is pulled downwards by this or these central longitudinal members, between the two bumps obtained through the longitudinal members right and left. To be pulled down, the flexible outer fabric passes below this or each central longitudinal member (with the lower portion of the central envelope pressed against the or each central longitudinal member) to form the hollow. The central envelope finally has an upper portion which covers the top of the or each central longitudinal member (without necessarily coming into contact with this or these central longitudinal members) for reasons both aesthetic and sealing the retractable roof. In a second embodiment, the retractable roof further comprises at least one longitudinal cable having a front end fixed to the roof and a rear end fixed to the rear window, and the or each longitudinal cable is hung on the underside of the canvas. flexible outer, in particular by means of a hem, for tensioning the flexible outer fabric laterally between the top of the longitudinal members right and left and the or each longitudinal cable.
Ainsi, le ou chaque câble longitudinal peut être décalé vers le bas par rapport aux organes longitudinaux droit et gauche, et la toile souple extérieure est tirée vers le bas par ce ou ces câbles longitudinaux, entre les deux bosses obtenus grâce aux organes longitudinaux droit et gauche, pour former le creux.  Thus, the or each longitudinal cable can be shifted downward relative to the longitudinal members right and left, and the outer flexible fabric is pulled downwards by this or these longitudinal cables, between the two bumps obtained through the longitudinal members right and left, to form the hollow.
Selon une possibilité de l'invention, le toit escamotable comprend en outre une toile souple intérieure de garniture, disposée en-dessous de la toile souple extérieure et des organes de maintien, et des couches de matériau isolant disposés de part et d'autre latéralement des organes de maintien entre la toile souple extérieure et la toile souple intérieure de garniture.  According to a possibility of the invention, the retractable roof further comprises an inner flexible lining cloth, disposed below the outer flexible fabric and the holding members, and layers of insulating material arranged on either side laterally holding members between the outer flexible fabric and the inner flexible liner.
Chaque organe de maintien peut être réalisé dans un matériau isolant, de sorte qu'il n'est pas nécessaire de recouvrir le dessus et/ou le dessous de ces organes de maintien par des couches de matériau isolant. Ainsi, pour réaliser l'isolation (phonique et/ou thermique) du toit escamotable dans sa partie entoilée, il est seulement nécessaire de disposer des couches de matériau de part et d'autre latéralement des organes de maintien, et pas en- dessous et/ou au-dessus de ces organes de maintien.  Each holding member may be made of an insulating material, so that it is not necessary to cover the top and / or bottom of these holding members by layers of insulating material. Thus, to achieve the insulation (phonic and / or thermal) of the retractable roof in its entoilée part, it is only necessary to have layers of material on either side laterally of the holding members, and not below and or above these holding members.
L'invention se rapporte également à un véhicule automobile équipé d'un toit escamotable conforme à l'invention, où le pavillon et la lunette arrière sont articulés sur la structure ou caisse du véhicule.  The invention also relates to a motor vehicle equipped with a retractable roof according to the invention, wherein the roof and the rear window are articulated on the structure or body of the vehicle.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée ci-après, d'exemples de mise en œuvre non limitatifs, faite en référence aux figures annexées dans lesquelles :  Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description below, of non-limiting implementation examples, with reference to the appended figures in which:
- la figure 1 a, déjà commentée, est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus d'un toit escamotable selon un premier type connu, en position déployée et sans la toile souple extérieure ni la lunette arrière ; - la figure 1 b, déjà commentée, est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus du toit escamotable de la figure 1 a, en position déployée et avec la toile souple extérieure et la lunette arrière ; - Figure 1a, already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a first known type in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric nor the rear window; - Figure 1b, already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 1a, in the deployed position and with the outer flexible fabric and the rear window;
- la figure 2a, déjà commentée, est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus d'un toit escamotable selon un second type connu, en position déployée et sans la toile souple extérieure ni la lunette arrière ;  - Figure 2a, already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a second known type in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric nor the rear window;
- la figure 2b, déjà commentée, est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus du toit escamotable de la figure 2a, en position déployée et avec la toile et la lunette arrière ;  - Figure 2b, already commented, is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 2a, in the deployed position and with the canvas and the rear window;
- la figure 3a est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus d'un toit escamotable selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention et comprenant un pavillon non vitrée, en position déployée et sans la toile souple extérieure ;  - Figure 3a is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a first embodiment of the invention and comprising an unglazed flag in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric;
- la figure 3b est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus du toit escamotable de la figure 3a, en position déployée et avec la toile souple extérieure ; - Figure 3b is a schematic perspective view from above of the retractable roof of Figure 3a, in the deployed position and with the outer flexible fabric;
- la figure 3c est une vue identique à celle de la figure 3a d'un toit escamotable selon le premier mode de réalisation de l'invention et comprenant un pavillon vitrée ;  - Figure 3c is a view similar to that of Figure 3a of a retractable roof according to the first embodiment of the invention and comprising a glazed roof;
- la figure 4 est une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, en position déployée ; - Figure 4 is a schematic longitudinal and vertical sectional view of the retractable roof of Figures 3a and 3b, in the deployed position;
- les figures 5a à 5c sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe longitudinale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans un plan de coupe de l'organe de soutien longitudinal droit ou gauche, illustrant le déplacement de cet organe de soutien longitudinal droit ou gauche de la position déployée (figure 5a) jusqu'à la position escamotée (figure 5c) en passant par une position intermédiaire (figure 5b) ; FIGS. 5a to 5c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a section plane of the right or left longitudinal support member, illustrating the displacement of this longitudinal support member. right or left of the deployed position (Figure 5a) to the retracted position (Figure 5c) through an intermediate position (Figure 5b);
- les figures 6a à 6c sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe longitudinale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans un plan de coupe de l'organe de soutien longitudinal central, illustrant le déplacement de cet organe de soutien longitudinal central de la position déployée (figure 6a) jusqu'à la position escamotée (figure 6c) en passant par une position intermédiaire (figure 6b) ;  FIGS. 6a to 6c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a sectional plane of the central longitudinal support member, illustrating the displacement of this central longitudinal support member of the extended position (Figure 6a) to the retracted position (Figure 6c) through an intermediate position (Figure 6b);
- les figures 7a à 7c sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe longitudinale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans un plan de coupe du pavillon, illustrant le déplacement de ce pavillon de la position déployée (figure 7a) jusqu'à la position escamotée (figure 7c) en passant par une position intermédiaire (figure 7b) ; FIGS. 7a to 7c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in FIG. a sectional plan of the flag, illustrating the displacement of this flag from the extended position (Figure 7a) to the retracted position (Figure 7c) through an intermediate position (Figure 7b);
- les figures 8a à 8c sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe longitudinale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans un plan de coupe de la lunette arrière, illustrant le déplacement de cette lunette arrière de la position déployée (figure 8a) jusqu'à la position escamotée (figure 8c) en passant par une position intermédiaire (figure 8b) ;  FIGS. 8a to 8c are partial diagrammatic views in longitudinal and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in a sectional plane of the rear window, illustrating the displacement of this rear window from the deployed position (FIG. 8a) to the retracted position (Figure 8c) through an intermediate position (Figure 8b);
- les figures 9a et 9b sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe transversale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans des plans de coupe de la toile souple extérieure situés en partie avant de cette toile (figure 9a) et en partie arrière de cette toile (figure 9b) où le creux central de la toile est plus prononcé qu'en partie avant ;  FIGS. 9a and 9b are partial diagrammatic views in transverse and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in sectional planes of the outer flexible fabric situated in the front part of this fabric (FIG. 9a) and in the rear part this canvas (Figure 9b) where the central hollow of the canvas is more pronounced than the front part;
- la figure 9c est une vue schématique en coupe transversale et verticale du toit escamotable des figures 3a et 3b, dans sensiblement le même plan de coupe en partie arrière de la toile souple extérieure que pour la figure 9b, avec en complément l'illustration d'une toile souple intérieure de garniture et des couches de matériau isolant disposés entre la toile souple extérieure et la toile souple intérieure de garniture ; FIG. 9c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional and vertical view of the retractable roof of FIGS. 3a and 3b, in substantially the same sectional plane at the rear of the outer flexible fabric as in FIG. 9b, with the illustration of FIG. an inner flexible liner and layers of insulating material disposed between the outer flexible fabric and the inner flexible liner;
- la figure 10 est une vue schématique en perspective de dessus d'un toit escamotable selon un second mode de réalisation de l'invention, en position déployée et sans la toile souple extérieure ; - Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view from above of a retractable roof according to a second embodiment of the invention, in the deployed position and without the outer flexible fabric;
- les figures 1 1 a et 1 1 b sont des vues schématiques partielles en coupe transversale et verticale du toit escamotable de la figure 10, dans des plans de coupe de la toile souple extérieure situés en partie avant de cette toile (figure 1 1 a) et en partie arrière de cette toile (figure 1 1 b) où le creux central de la toile est plus prononcé qu'en partie avant.  FIGS. 11a and 11b are partial diagrammatic views in transverse and vertical section of the retractable roof of FIG. 10, in section planes of the outer flexible fabric located in front of this fabric (FIG. ) and in the rear part of this fabric (Figure 1 1 b) where the central hollow of the fabric is more pronounced than the front part.
La description qui suit porte sur un toit escamotable pour véhicule automobile ; les éléments constitutifs suivants du toit escamotable, pavillon 1 , lunette arrière 2 et toile souple extérieure 3, ayant été décrits ci-dessus ne seront pas systématiquement décrits à nouveau, les mêmes références numériques seront employées pour décrire les mêmes éléments et nous nous référerons utilement à la description ci-dessus pour ces éléments. Les figures 3a à 9c illustrent un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, tandis que les figures 10 à 1 1 b illustrent un second mode de réalisation de l'invention. The following description relates to a retractable roof for a motor vehicle; the following constituent elements of the retractable roof, roof 1, rear window 2 and outer flexible canvas 3, having been described above will not be systematically described again, the same reference numerals will be used to describe the same elements and we will usefully refer to the above description for these items. Figures 3a to 9c illustrate a first embodiment of the invention, while Figures 10 to 11b illustrate a second embodiment of the invention.
Dans les deux modes de réalisation, le toit escamotable 1 comporte :  In both embodiments, the retractable roof 1 comprises:
- un pavillon de toit 1 rigide comprenant un panneau 1 0 rigide et deux arceaux latéraux 1 1 , respectivement droit et gauche, solidaires du panneau 1 0, avec éventuellement l'incorporation d'une vitre 1 3 sur le panneau 1 0 dans l'exemple avec pavillon vitrée illustré sur la figure 3c ;  - A rigid roof lodge 1 comprising a rigid panel 1 0 and two side arches 1 1, respectively right and left, integral with the panel 1 0, possibly incorporating a window 1 3 on the panel 1 0 in the example with glazed flag shown in Figure 3c;
- une lunette arrière 2 rigide pourvue d'une vitre 20 encadrée par un cadre 21 ; - A rigid rear window 2 provided with a window 20 framed by a frame 21;
- une toile souple extérieure 3 reliant le pavillon 1 à la lunette arrière 2 ; et an outer flexible fabric 3 connecting the roof 1 to the rear window 2; and
- des organes de maintien 41 , 42 de la toile souple extérieure 3 intercalés entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2 pour maintenir la zone centrale de la toile souple extérieure 3. - Holders 41, 42 of the outer flexible fabric 3 interposed between the roof 1 and the rear window 2 to maintain the central zone of the outer flexible fabric 3.
Le pavillon 1 est lié à des éléments de structure ou de caisse 5 du véhicule par deux pantographes 1 2 montés parallèlement de part et d'autre du pavillon 1 et fonctionnant en parallèle. Ces pantographes 12 ayant été décrits ci-dessus ne seront pas décrits à nouveau et nous nous référerons utilement à la description ci-dessus pour ces pantographes 1 2. Les figures 7a à 7c illustrent le déplacement de ce pavillon 1 de la position déployée jusqu'à la position escamotée, tout en restant horizontal durant les mouvements du toit escamotable.  The flag 1 is connected to structural elements or box 5 of the vehicle by two pantographs 1 2 mounted parallel to each other and the flag 1 and operating in parallel. These pantographs 12 having been described above will not be described again and we will usefully refer to the description above for these pantographs 1 2. FIGS. 7a to 7c illustrate the displacement of this flag 1 from the deployed position to in the retracted position, while remaining horizontal during the movements of the retractable roof.
La lunette arrière 2 est liée aux éléments de structure ou de caisse 5 du véhicule par deux biellettes 23 montées parallèlement de part et d'autre de la lunette arrière 2 et fonctionnant en parallèle. Chaque biellette 23 comprend deux extrémités opposées montées à pivotement respectivement sur un côté du cadre 21 et sur l'élément de structure ou de caisse 5 correspondant. Les figures 8a à 8c illustrent le déplacement de cette lunette arrière 2 de la position déployée jusqu'à la position escamotée.  The rear window 2 is connected to the structural or body elements 5 of the vehicle by two links 23 mounted parallel to each other on either side of the rear window 2 and operating in parallel. Each link 23 comprises two opposite ends pivotally mounted respectively on one side of the frame 21 and on the corresponding structural element or box 5. Figures 8a to 8c illustrate the movement of the rear window 2 from the deployed position to the retracted position.
Le cadre 21 présente un bord avant transversal présentant un degré, c'est-à-dire une forme de marche, défini par une paroi basse libre 24 et une paroi inclinée 25 bordant la paroi basse libre 24.  The frame 21 has a transverse front edge having a degree, that is to say a step shape, defined by a free bottom wall 24 and an inclined wall 25 bordering the free bottom wall 24.
La toile 3 présente deux bords transversaux opposés, respectivement avant et arrière, qui sont fixés respectivement sur le bord transversal arrière du panneau 1 0 du pavillon 1 et sur le bord transversal avant du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2, par exemple par collage, soudage, rivetage, vissage ou autre moyen de fixation équivalent. The fabric 3 has two opposite transverse edges, respectively front and rear, which are respectively fixed on the rear transverse edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1 and on the front transverse edge frame 21 of the rear window 2, for example by gluing, welding, riveting, screwing or other equivalent attachment means.
Dans les deux modes de réalisation, les organes de maintien de la toile souple extérieure 3 comportent deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 , respectivement droit et gauche, disposés de part et d'autre d'un plan médian longitudinal du toit escamotable, et constitués de pièces oblongues sensiblement plates, c'est-à-dire présentant une épaisseur réduite comparativement à la longueur et à la largeur.  In both embodiments, the holding members of the outer flexible fabric 3 comprise two lateral longitudinal members 41, respectively right and left, disposed on either side of a longitudinal median plane of the retractable roof, and consist of parts oblong substantially flat, that is to say having a reduced thickness compared to the length and width.
Les organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 présentent chacun une extrémité avant articulée sur le pavillon 1 , et plus spécifiquement sur le bord arrière transversal du panneau 1 0 du pavillon 1 , par une liaison pivot 43 reliant directement ladite extrémité avant audit panneau 1 0 du pavillon 1 ; cette liaison pivot 43 s'effectuant autour d'un axe de pivotement transversal et horizontal.  The lateral longitudinal members 41 each have a front end articulated on the roof 1, and more specifically on the transverse rear edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1, by a pivot connection 43 directly connecting said front end to said panel 1 0 of the roof 1; this pivot connection 43 is performed around a transverse pivot axis and horizontal.
Les organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 présentent chacun une extrémité arrière articulée sur la lunette arrière 2, et plus spécifiquement sur le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2, par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce d'articulation 44 comprenant :  The lateral longitudinal members 41 each have a rear end hinged to the rear window 2, and more specifically to the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, via a hinge part 44 comprising:
- une première extrémité 45 montée à pivotement sur cette extrémité arrière de l'organe longitudinal latéral 41 ; et  a first end 45 pivotally mounted on this rear end of the lateral longitudinal member 41; and
- une seconde extrémité 46 montée à pivotement sur le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2. a second end 46 pivotally mounted on the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
La première extrémité 45 et la seconde extrémité 46 sont montées à pivotement autour d'axes de pivotement transversaux et horizontaux.  The first end 45 and the second end 46 are pivotally mounted about transverse and horizontal pivot axes.
Dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, et comme illustré sur les figures 4 et 5a, la première extrémité 45 de chaque pièce d'articulation In the deployed position of the retractable roof, and as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5a, the first end 45 of each articulation piece
44 est en appui sur le dessus de la lunette arrière 2, et plus spécifiquement la première extrémité 45 de chaque pièce d'articulation 44 est en appui sur le dessus de la paroi basse libre 24 du bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2, évitant ainsi à la pièce d'articulation 44 de pivoter vers le bas. 44 is supported on the top of the rear window 2, and more specifically the first end 45 of each hinge piece 44 is supported on the top of the free bottom wall 24 of the front transverse edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, thus preventing the articulation piece 44 from pivoting downwards.
En outre, la seconde extrémité 46 de chaque pièce d'articulation 44 est montée à pivotement sur la paroi inclinée 25 du bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2.  In addition, the second end 46 of each articulation piece 44 is pivotally mounted on the inclined wall 25 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
Ces pièce d'articulation 44 forme des doubles articulations pour les organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 qui permettent de :  These articulation piece 44 forms double joints for the lateral longitudinal members 41 which make it possible to:
- maintenir tendue la toile 3 dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, comme illustrée sur la figure 5a, où les trois axes de pivotement sont quasiment alignés sur une courbe parallèle à la toile 3 et où la pièce d'articulation 44 est bloquée en rotation vers le bas par le cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2 et la toile 3 est tendue au-dessus et empêche la pièce d'articulation 44 de monter ; - Tighten the canvas 3 in the extended position of the retractable roof, as shown in Figure 5a, where the three pivot axes are almost aligned on a curve parallel to the fabric 3 and where the hinge piece 44 is locked in rotation downwards by the frame 21 of the rear window 2 and the fabric 3 is stretched above and prevents the hinge part 44 to climb;
- détendre la toile 3 dans les positions intermédiaires lors de l'escamotage du toit, comme illustrée sur la figure 5b, afin de limiter les sollicitations sur cette toile 3, car les premières extrémités 45 des pièces d'articulation 44 se relèvent et décollent de la lunette arrière 2 ; et - Relax the fabric 3 in the intermediate positions during the retraction of the roof, as shown in Figure 5b, to limit the stresses on the fabric 3, because the first ends 45 of the hinge parts 44 are raised and removed from the rear window 2; and
- laisser la toile 3 détendue afin que celle-ci puisse contourner la lunette arrière 2 dans la position escamotée du toit, comme illustrée sur la figure 5c.  - Leave the canvas 3 relaxed so that it can bypass the rear window 2 in the retracted position of the roof, as shown in Figure 5c.
Dans le premier mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 3a à 9c, les organes longitudinaux de maintien comprennent en outre un organe longitudinal central 42 intercalé entre les deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 . Cet organe longitudinal central 42 est également constitué d'une pièce oblongue et sensiblement plate.  In the first embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3a to 9c, the longitudinal retention members further comprise a central longitudinal member 42 interposed between the two lateral longitudinal members 41. This central longitudinal member 42 is also constituted by an oblong and substantially flat piece.
L'organe longitudinal central 42 présente une extrémité avant articulée sur le pavillon 1 , et plus spécifiquement sur le bord arrière transversal du panneau 1 0 du pavillon 1 , par une liaison pivot 47 reliant directement ladite extrémité avant audit panneau 10 du pavillon 1 ; cette liaison pivot 47 s'effectuant autour d'un axe de pivotement transversal et horizontal.  The central longitudinal member 42 has a front end articulated on the roof 1, and more specifically on the transverse rear edge of the panel 1 0 of the roof 1, by a pivot connection 47 directly connecting said front end to said panel 10 of the roof 1; this pivot connection 47 is performed around a transverse pivot axis and horizontal.
L'organe longitudinal central 42 présente une extrémité arrière articulée sur la lunette arrière 2, et plus spécifiquement sur le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2, par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce d'articulation 48 comprenant :  The central longitudinal member 42 has a rear end hinged to the rear window 2, and more specifically to the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, via a hinge part 48 comprising:
- une première extrémité 49 montée à pivotement sur cette extrémité arrière de l'organe longitudinal central 42 ; et a first end 49 pivotally mounted on this rear end of the central longitudinal member 42; and
- une seconde extrémité 40 montée à pivotement sur le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2.  a second end 40 pivotally mounted on the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
La première extrémité 49 et la seconde extrémité 40 sont montées à pivotement autour d'axes de pivotement transversaux et horizontaux.  The first end 49 and the second end 40 are pivotally mounted about transverse and horizontal pivot axes.
Dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, et comme illustré sur la figure 6a, la première extrémité 49 de la pièce d'articulation 48 est en appui sur le dessus de la lunette arrière 2, et plus spécifiquement la première extrémité 49 de la pièce d'articulation 48 est en appui sur le dessus de la paroi basse libre 24 du bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2, évitant ainsi à la pièce d'articulation 48 de pivoter vers le bas. En outre, la seconde extrémité 40 de la pièce d'articulation 48 est montée à pivotement sur la paroi inclinée 25 du bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2. In the deployed position of the retractable roof, and as shown in FIG. 6a, the first end 49 of the articulation piece 48 rests on the top of the rear window 2, and more specifically the first end 49 of the sun room. articulation 48 is supported on the top of the free bottom wall 24 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2, thus preventing the articulation piece 48 from pivoting downwards. In addition, the second end 40 of the articulation piece 48 is pivotally mounted on the inclined wall 25 of the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
Dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, pour donner à la toile 3 une forme ondulée avec deux bosses 33 longitudinales encadrant un creux 34 longitudinal, la toile 3 est configurée comme suit :  In the deployed position of the retractable roof, to give the fabric 3 a corrugated shape with two longitudinal bumps 33 flanking a longitudinal recess 34, the fabric 3 is configured as follows:
- la toile 3 est plaquée et tendue sur le dessus des organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 dans la position déployée du toit escamotable ;  - The fabric 3 is plated and stretched on top of the longitudinal longitudinal members 41 in the deployed position of the retractable roof;
- la toile 3 présente une enveloppe centrale qui entoure l'organe longitudinal central 42 et qui comprend :  the fabric 3 has a central envelope which surrounds the central longitudinal member 42 and which comprises:
- une portion inférieure 35 plaquée et tendue sur le dessous de l'organe longitudinal central 42 dans la position déployée du toit escamotable ; et  a lower portion 35 plated and stretched on the underside of the central longitudinal member 42 in the extended position of the retractable roof; and
- une portion supérieure 36 qui recouvre le dessus de l'organe longitudinal central 42 sans nécessairement le toucher.  an upper portion 36 which covers the top of the central longitudinal member 42 without necessarily touching it.
Comme visible notamment sur les figures 9a et 9b, la toile 3 présente une ondulation variable entre l'avant et l'arrière, avec un creux 34 plus prononcée à l'arrière de la toile 3 qu'à l'avant. Cette variation est obtenue en jouant sur le positionnement relatif de l'organe longitudinal central 42 par rapport aux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 , sur la forme des organes longitudinaux 41 et 42, et sur la forme et le positionnement de la portion supérieure 36 de l'enveloppe centrale de la toile 3.  As can be seen in particular in FIGS. 9a and 9b, the fabric 3 has a variable undulation between the front and the back, with a hollow 34 more pronounced at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front. This variation is obtained by acting on the relative positioning of the central longitudinal member 42 with respect to the lateral longitudinal members 41, on the shape of the longitudinal members 41 and 42, and on the shape and positioning of the upper portion 36 of the central envelope of the canvas 3.
Ainsi, l'organe longitudinal central 42 est plus décalé vers le bas par rapport aux deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 à l'arrière de la toile 3 qu'à l'avant de la toile 3.  Thus, the central longitudinal member 42 is more downwardly offset with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41 at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front of the fabric 3.
Pour épouser la toile 3, le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2 présente également une forme ondulée, comme cela est visible sur la figure 3a.  To marry the fabric 3, the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2 also has a wavy shape, as can be seen in Figure 3a.
De manière générale, chaque organe longitudinal 41 , 42 peut varier en forme et en hauteur selon le style souhaité pour la toile 3. Dans l'exemple illustré sur les figures, la toile 3 est quasiment plane vers l'avant du véhicule, puis son galbe devient très marqué en approchant de l'arrière et retrouve par exemple la naissance du galbe formé dans la vitre 20 de la lunette arrière 2.  In general, each longitudinal member 41, 42 may vary in shape and height depending on the desired style for the fabric 3. In the example illustrated in the figures, the fabric 3 is almost flat towards the front of the vehicle, then its curvature becomes very marked when approaching from the rear and found for example the birth of the curve formed in the window 20 of the rear window 2.
En outre, et comme visible sur les figures 9a à 9c et 1 1 a et 1 1 b, les organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 peuvent présenter une section transversale bombée ou incurvée vers le haut, pour notamment limiter l'encombrement dans l'habitacle. In addition, and as visible in FIGS. 9a to 9c and 11a and 11b, the lateral longitudinal members 41 may have a cross-section curved or curved upwards, in particular to limit clutter in the cabin.
Pour l'isolation phonique et thermique de toit escamotable, et comme illustré sur la figure 9c, ce toit escamotable comprend en outre :  For acoustic and thermal retractable roof insulation, and as illustrated in Figure 9c, this retractable roof further comprises:
- une toile souple intérieure de garniture 7, disposée en-dessous de la toile souple extérieure 3 et des organes de maintien 41 , 42 ; et - an inner soft lining fabric 7, disposed below the outer flexible fabric 3 and the retaining members 41, 42; and
- des couches de matériau isolant 70 disposés de part et d'autre latéralement des organes de maintien 41 , 42, entre les deux toiles 3, 7.  layers of insulating material 70 disposed on either side of the holding members 41, 42 between the two webs 3, 7.
Les organes de maintien 41 , 42 sont également réalisés dans un matériau isolant, et assure ainsi une fonction d'isolation, au même titre que les couches de matériau isolant 70, de sorte qu'il n'est pas nécessaire de disposer de telles couches de matériau isolant 70 au-dessus et/ou en-dessous de ces organes de maintien 41 , 42. Les couches de matériau isolant 70 sont seulement intercalés entre les toiles 3, 7 sur les côtés de ces organes de maintien 41 , 42.  The retaining members 41, 42 are also made of an insulating material, and thus provides an insulating function, as well as the layers of insulating material 70, so that it is not necessary to have such layers of insulating material 70 above and / or below these holding members 41, 42. The layers of insulating material 70 are only interposed between the webs 3, 7 on the sides of these holding members 41, 42.
Une telle configuration est avantageuse, car elle permet de limiter l'épaisseur globale du toit escamotable, entre les deux toiles 3, 7, avec par exemple une épaisseur comprise entre environ 12 et 20 millimètres selon le niveau d'isolation désiré, et permet dont de libérer de la place au-dessus des têtes des occupants de l'habitacle du véhicule.  Such a configuration is advantageous because it makes it possible to limit the overall thickness of the retractable roof, between the two canvases 3, 7, for example with a thickness of between approximately 12 and 20 millimeters depending on the desired level of insulation, and makes it possible to to free up space above the heads of the occupants of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
Dans le second mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 10 à 1 1 b, l'organe longitudinal central 42 est remplacé par deux câbles 6 longitudinaux présentant chacun :  In the second embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 11 b, the central longitudinal member 42 is replaced by two longitudinal cables 6 each having:
- une extrémité avant fixée sur le pavillon 1 , et plus spécifiquement sur le bord arrière transversal du panneau 10 du pavillon 1 ; et  - A front end fixed to the roof 1, and more specifically to the transverse rear edge of the panel 10 of the roof 1; and
- une extrémité arrière fixée sur la lunette arrière 2, et plus spécifiquement sur le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2.  a rear end fixed to the rear window 2, and more specifically to the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2.
Dans la position déployée du toit, chaque câble 6 est tendu entre le pavillon 1 et la lunette arrière 2, en étant par exemple tendu rigide ou tendu au moyen d'organes élastiques tels que des ressorts.  In the deployed position of the roof, each cable 6 is stretched between the roof 1 and the rear window 2, for example being stretched rigid or stretched by means of resilient members such as springs.
En outre, et comme visible sur les figures 1 1 a et 1 1 b, chaque câble 6 est accroché sur le dessous de la toile 3, notamment au moyen d'un ourlet 60 collé, soudé ou cousu sous la toile 3, pour tendre la toile 3 latéralement entre le dessus des organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 et les câbles 6. Dans la position déployée du toit escamotable, pour donner à la toile 3 une forme ondulée avec deux bosses 33 longitudinales encadrant un creux 34 longitudinal, la toile 3 est configurée comme suit : In addition, and as shown in Figures 1 1a and 1 1b, each cable 6 is hooked on the underside of the fabric 3, in particular by means of a hem 60 bonded, welded or sewn under the fabric 3, to stretch the fabric 3 laterally between the top of the lateral longitudinal members 41 and the cables 6. In the deployed position of the retractable roof, to give the fabric 3 a corrugated shape with two longitudinal bumps 33 flanking a longitudinal recess 34, the fabric 3 is configured as follows:
- la toile 3 est plaquée et tendue sur le dessus des organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 dans la position déployée du toit escamotable ;  - The fabric 3 is plated and stretched on top of the longitudinal longitudinal members 41 in the deployed position of the retractable roof;
- la toile 3 est tirée vers le bas, entre les deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 , au moyen des câbles 6 qui sont décalés vers le bas relativement aux deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 .  the fabric 3 is pulled downwards between the two lateral longitudinal members 41 by means of the cables 6 which are offset downwards with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41.
Comme visible sur les figures 1 1 a et 1 1 b, la toile 3 présente une ondulation variable entre l'avant et l'arrière, avec un creux 34 plus prononcée à l'arrière de la toile 3 qu'à l'avant. Cette variation est obtenue en jouant sur le positionnement relatif des câbles 6 par rapport aux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 et sur la forme des organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 .  As can be seen in FIGS. 11a and 11b, the fabric 3 has a variable undulation between the front and the back, with a hollow 34 more pronounced at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front. This variation is obtained by adjusting the relative positioning of the cables 6 with respect to the lateral longitudinal members 41 and the shape of the lateral longitudinal members 41.
Ainsi, les câbles 6 sont plus décalés vers le bas par rapport aux deux organes longitudinaux latéraux 41 à l'arrière de la toile 3 qu'à l'avant de la toile 3.  Thus, the cables 6 are more offset downwards with respect to the two lateral longitudinal members 41 at the rear of the fabric 3 than at the front of the fabric 3.
Pour épouser la toile 3, le bord avant transversal du cadre 21 de la lunette arrière 2 présente également une forme ondulée, comme cela est visible sur la figure 10.  To fit the fabric 3, the transverse front edge of the frame 21 of the rear window 2 also has a wavy shape, as can be seen in FIG.
Bien entendu l'exemple de mise en œuvre évoqué ci-dessus ne présente aucun caractère limitatif et d'autres améliorations et détails peuvent être apportés au toit escamotable selon l'invention, sans pour autant sortir du cadre de l'invention où d'autres formes d'organes de maintien peuvent par exemple être réalisées.  Of course the implementation example mentioned above is not limiting and other improvements and details can be made to the retractable roof according to the invention, without departing from the scope of the invention where others forms of holding members may for example be made.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1 . Toit escamotable pour véhicule automobile, du type comprenant :1. Retractable roof for a motor vehicle, of the type comprising:
- un pavillon (1 ) de toit rigide ; - a roof (1) with a rigid roof;
- une lunette arrière (2) rigide, notamment pourvue d'une vitre (20) ; - A rigid rear window (2), in particular provided with a window (20);
- une toile souple extérieure (3) reliant le pavillon (1 ) à la lunette arrière (2) ; et  - an outer flexible fabric (3) connecting the roof (1) to the rear window (2); and
- des organes de maintien (41 , 42) de la toile souple extérieure (3) intercalés entre le pavillon (1 ) et la lunette arrière (2) pour maintenir la toile souple extérieure (3) ;  - Holders (41, 42) of the outer flexible fabric (3) interposed between the roof (1) and the rear window (2) for holding the outer flexible fabric (3);
ledit toit escamotable étant déplaçable entre : said retractable roof being movable between:
- une position déployée dans laquelle le pavillon (1 ) recouvre le dessus de l'habitacle du véhicule, la lunette arrière (2) recouvre l'arrière de l'habitacle du véhicule et la toile souple extérieure (3) est tendue entre le pavillon (1 ) et la lunette arrière (2) pour recouvrir l'habitacle tout en étant maintenue par les organes de maintien (41 , 42) ; et  - An extended position in which the roof (1) covers the top of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the rear window (2) covers the rear of the passenger compartment of the vehicle and the outer flexible fabric (3) is stretched between the roof (1) and the rear window (2) to cover the passenger compartment while being held by the holding members (41, 42); and
- une position escamotée dans laquelle le pavillon (1 ), la lunette arrière (2), la toile souple extérieure (3) et les organes de maintien (41 , 42) sont repliés pour être rangés dans un compartiment de coffre arrière du véhicule ;  - A retracted position in which the roof (1), the rear window (2), the outer flexible fabric (3) and the holding members (41, 42) are folded to be stored in a trunk compartment of the vehicle;
ledit toit escamotable étant caractérisé en ce que les organes de maintien comprennent au moins deux organes longitudinaux de maintien (41 , 42) rigides disposés côte à côte et présentant chacun une extrémité avant articulée sur le pavillon (1 ) et une extrémité arrière articulée sur la lunette arrière (2). said retractable roof being characterized in that the holding members comprise at least two rigid longitudinal holding members (41, 42) arranged side by side and each having a hinged front end on the roof (1) and a rear end articulated on the rear window (2).
2. Toit escamotable selon la revendication 1 , dans lequel l'extrémité avant de chaque organe longitudinal de maintien (41 ; 42) est articulée sur le pavillon (1 ) par une liaison pivot (43 ; 47) reliant directement ladite extrémité avant audit pavillon (1 ). 2. retractable roof according to claim 1, wherein the front end of each longitudinal retaining member (41; 42) is articulated on the roof (1) by a pivot connection (43; 47) directly connecting said front end to said flag (1).
3. Toit escamotable selon les revendications 1 ou 2, dans lequel l'extrémité arrière de chaque organe longitudinal de maintien (41 ; 42) est articulée sur la lunette arrière (2) par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce d'articulation (44 ; 48) comprenant une première extrémité (45 ; 49) montée à pivotement sur l'organe longitudinal de maintien (41 ; 42) et une seconde extrémité (46 ; 40) montée à pivotement sur la lunette arrière (2). 3. Retractable roof according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the rear end of each longitudinal retaining member (41; 42) is articulated on the rear window (2) via a hinge piece (44). 48) comprising a first end (45; 49) pivotally mounted on the longitudinal holding member (41; 42) and a second end (46; 40) pivotally mounted on the rear window (2).
4. Toit escamotable selon la revendication 3, dans lequel la première extrémité (45 ; 49) de chaque pièce d'articulation (44 ; 48) est en appui sur le dessus de la lunette arrière (2) dans la position déployée du toit escamotable. 4. retractable roof according to claim 3, wherein the first end (45; 49) of each hinge piece (44; 48) is supported on the top of the rear window (2) in the deployed position of the retractable roof .
5. Toit escamotable selon la revendication 4, dans lequel la lunette arrière (2) comporte un bord avant transversal présentant un degré défini par une paroi basse libre (24) et une paroi inclinée (25) bordant ladite paroi basse libre (24), dans lequel la seconde extrémité (46 ; 40) de chaque pièce d'articulation (44 ; 48) est montée à pivotement sur ladite paroi inclinée (25), et dans lequel la première extrémité (45 ; 49) de chaque pièce d'articulation (44 ; 48) est en appui sur le dessus de ladite paroi basse libre (24) dans la position déployée du toit escamotable. 5. Retractable roof according to claim 4, wherein the rear window (2) has a transverse front edge having a degree defined by a free low wall (24) and an inclined wall (25) bordering said free bottom wall (24), wherein the second end (46; 40) of each hinge piece (44; 48) is pivotally mounted on said inclined wall (25), and wherein the first end (45; 49) of each hinge piece (44; 48) is supported on the top of said free bottom wall (24) in the deployed position of the retractable roof.
6. Toit escamotable selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans lequel au moins un des organes longitudinaux de maintien (41 , 42) est constitué d'une pièce oblongue sensiblement plate, où ladite pièce oblongue présente notamment une largeur supérieure à 100 millimètres voire supérieure à 200 millimètres et/ou ladite pièce oblongue présente notamment une section longitudinale et/ou transversale de forme incurvée ou bombée. 6. retractable roof according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the longitudinal holding members (41, 42) consists of a substantially flat oblong piece, wherein said oblong piece has in particular a width greater than 100 millimeters or even greater than 200 millimeters and / or said oblong piece has in particular a longitudinal and / or cross section of curved or curved shape.
7. Toit escamotable selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, dans lequel les organes longitudinaux de maintien comprennent au moins un organe longitudinal droit (41 ) et un organe longitudinal gauche (41 ) disposés de part et d'autre d'un plan médian longitudinal du toit escamotable, et dans lequel la toile souple extérieure (3) est plaquée sur le dessus desdits organes longitudinaux droit et gauche (41 ) dans la position déployée du toit escamotable. 7. retractable roof according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the longitudinal holding members comprise at least one longitudinal longitudinal member (41) and a left longitudinal member (41) arranged on either side of a longitudinal median plane of the retractable roof, and wherein the outer flexible fabric (3) is pressed on top of said right and left longitudinal members (41) in the deployed position of the retractable roof.
8. Toit escamotable selon la revendication 7, dans lequel les organes longitudinaux de maintien comprennent au moins un organe longitudinal central (42) intercalé entre les organes longitudinaux droit et gauche (41 ), et dans lequel la toile souple extérieure (3) présente une enveloppe centrale qui entoure le ou chaque organe longitudinal central (42) et qui comprend, d'une part, une portion inférieure (35) plaquée sur le dessous du ou de chaque organe longitudinal central (42) dans la position déployée du toit escamotable et, d'autre part, une portion supérieure (36) qui recouvre le dessus du ou de chaque organe longitudinal central (42). 8. retractable roof according to claim 7, wherein the longitudinal holding members comprise at least one central longitudinal member (42) interposed between the longitudinal members right and left (41), and wherein the outer flexible fabric (3) has a central envelope surrounding the or each central longitudinal member (42) and including on the one hand, a lower portion (35) plated on the underside of the or each central longitudinal member (42) in the extended position of the retractable roof and, on the other hand, an upper portion (36) which covers the top of the or each central longitudinal member (42).
9. Toit escamotable selon la revendication 7, comprenant en outre au moins un câble (6) longitudinal présentant une extrémité avant fixée sur le pavillon (1 ) et une extrémité arrière fixée sur la lunette arrière (2), et dans lequel le ou chaque câble (6) longitudinal est accroché sur le dessous de la toile souple extérieure (3), notamment au moyen d'un ourlet (60), pour tendre la toile souple extérieure (3) latéralement entre le dessus des organes longitudinaux droit et gauche (41 ) et le ou chaque câble (6) longitudinal. A retractable roof according to claim 7, further comprising at least one longitudinal cable (6) having a front end secured to the roof (1) and a rear end attached to the rear window (2), and wherein the or each longitudinal cable (6) is hooked on the underside of the outer flexible fabric (3), in particular by means of a hem (60), to tension the outer flexible fabric (3) laterally between the top of the right and left longitudinal members ( 41) and the or each longitudinal cable (6).
10. Toit escamotable selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, comprenant en outre une toile souple intérieure de garniture (7), disposée en-dessous de la toile souple extérieure (3) et des organes de maintien (41 , 42), et des couches de matériau isolant (70) disposés de part et d'autre latéralement des organes de maintien (41 , 42) entre la toile souple extérieure (3) et la toile souple intérieure de garniture (7). 10. Retractable roof according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an inner soft liner fabric (7) disposed below the outer flexible fabric (3) and the retaining members (41, 42). , and layers of insulating material (70) arranged on either side laterally of the holding members (41, 42) between the outer flexible fabric (3) and the inner flexible lining fabric (7).
PCT/FR2011/052738 2010-12-02 2011-11-23 Retractable roof for a motor vehicle WO2012072918A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1060005A FR2968244B1 (en) 2010-12-02 2010-12-02 RETRACTABLE ROOF FOR MOTOR VEHICLE.
FR1060005 2010-12-02

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012072918A1 true WO2012072918A1 (en) 2012-06-07

Family

ID=43877263

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/FR2011/052738 WO2012072918A1 (en) 2010-12-02 2011-11-23 Retractable roof for a motor vehicle

Country Status (2)

Country Link
FR (1) FR2968244B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2012072918A1 (en)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6246221U (en) * 1985-09-10 1987-03-20
DE4124813C1 (en) * 1991-07-26 1992-06-17 Mercedes-Benz Aktiengesellschaft, 7000 Stuttgart, De
US5375901A (en) * 1993-10-22 1994-12-27 Robbins Auto Top Company, Inc. Convertible top with fold-down rear window
US20040046413A1 (en) * 2002-09-10 2004-03-11 Willard Michael T. Convertible backlite control system
US7490885B1 (en) * 2008-02-26 2009-02-17 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Vehicle body with expandable vehicle body panel

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6246221U (en) * 1985-09-10 1987-03-20
DE4124813C1 (en) * 1991-07-26 1992-06-17 Mercedes-Benz Aktiengesellschaft, 7000 Stuttgart, De
US5375901A (en) * 1993-10-22 1994-12-27 Robbins Auto Top Company, Inc. Convertible top with fold-down rear window
US20040046413A1 (en) * 2002-09-10 2004-03-11 Willard Michael T. Convertible backlite control system
US7490885B1 (en) * 2008-02-26 2009-02-17 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Vehicle body with expandable vehicle body panel

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2968244B1 (en) 2012-12-21
FR2968244A1 (en) 2012-06-08

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
FR2669862A1 (en) RETRACTABLE ROOF FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.
FR2694245A1 (en) Convertible vehicle with rigid top - has two sliding panels, one with safety bar pivoted to passenger compartment, and third panel pivoted on compartment rear
FR2907725A1 (en) Luggage-covering shelf for covering motor vehicle boot, has stub and support stub mounting struts on anchorage unit to rotate struts relative to anchorage unit, and plastic laths connected with each other by hinge, which is made of tissue
EP1566295B1 (en) Occultation device for motor vehicle, and such a motor vehicle
EP1769954B1 (en) Sun visor device for a vehicle's windshield, with a roller blind, and corresponding vehicle
FR2943278A1 (en) CAPOTE FOR A CABRIOLET AND CABRIOLET PROVIDED WITH SUCH CAPOTE
EP1375222B1 (en) Vehicle with a slidable sun visor unit
EP1006013B1 (en) Sliding roof device for motor vehicle
WO2012072918A1 (en) Retractable roof for a motor vehicle
WO2008040892A1 (en) Device for obstructing a vehicle windscreen
FR2973740A1 (en) Retractable roof for car, has side tension mechanism extending parallel to another side tension mechanism from inner sides of arches and tightening flexible outer canvas to form longitudinal groove in canvas along arches
FR2864476A1 (en) Motor vehicle, has superposed panels covering surface between wind-screen and rear window, and displaced between open position and storage position in which panels are housed inside trunk of vehicle
EP2230115B1 (en) Device for concealing a glazed roof of an automobile, and corresponding vehicle.
FR2924382A1 (en) Retractable roof, has lateral arms having reception zone for receiving outer lateral edge of flexible cover on upper side and near inner lateral edge when roof is in deployed position
WO2011148069A1 (en) Vehicle provided with an improved convertible top
FR2921870A1 (en) Convertible roof for car, has receiving piece receiving flexible cover element and positioned in front of back window, where piece is pivotingly mounted on body shell of vehicle to pivot piece towards back
FR2943018A1 (en) Interior installation system for motor vehicle i.e. utility vehicle, has structure mounted in vehicle around vertical axis from its utilization position to storing position in which seat occupies position back with rear route of fixed seat
FR2601906A1 (en) Retractable hood with a roll-over bars (safety hoops) for cabriolet motor cars
FR2940194A1 (en) Extensible anti-dazzle screen for motor vehicle, has roller including rolling spindle on which occultation sheets are rolled, where rolling spindle has receiving notch for receiving occultation sheets
EP1683667B1 (en) Antiglare device for vehicles comprising a roller blind, and corresponding vehicle
FR3092054A1 (en) Luggage cover system for motor vehicles
FR2584029A1 (en) Improvements to hood frames for vehicles of the cabriolet type
EP1700727B1 (en) Sun blind for motor vehicle, with complentary blind and corresponding motor vehicle
EP4108526A1 (en) Transverse partition for a vehicle, and vehicle equipped with such a partition
FR2959452A1 (en) Roller blind for screening large-sized surfaces e.g. side glass, of motor vehicle to protect glazed surfaces from sun rays, has blocking unit that blocks occultation sheet at vicinity of edges of opening

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 11799771

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 11799771

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1