Patent US3953067A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US3953067A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Vehicle headliner construction
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1974-09-18
•
Granted: 1976-04-27
•
Expires: 1994-09-18
Abstract
Abstract A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof and extend laterally between the longitudinal side edges of the roof and longitudinally between the front and rear edges of the roof, the headliner comprising at least one sheet or panel of a relatively rigid, but foldable material having an elongated reversely folded portion serving to rigidify and strengthen the headliner and provide a seam appearing line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle. In an alternative construction, the headliner may comprise two or more headliner sections or panels the adjacent edges of which are joined in a manner providing a seam line similar in appearance to the line provided by the reversely folded portion(s). The headliner may be either self-supporting or associated with support elements which cooperate with the folded portion and/or joined edges of adjacent headliner sections for supporting the headliner in its operative position within a vehicle.
Inventors
- 👤 Richard A. Isola
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-05 13:09
CPC Classifications
B; B60; B60R; B60R13/00; B60R13/02; B60R13/0212; B60R13/0206; B60R13/08; B60R13/0815; B60R2013/0281; B60R2013/0293
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 218
Claim 1
Independent Claim
73 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof and extend laterally between the longitudinal side edges of the roof and longitudinally between the front and rear edges of the roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid but foldable material having at least one reversely folded portion providing a seam appearing line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
73 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof and extend laterally between the longitudinal side edges of the roof and longitudinally between the front and rear edges of the roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid but foldable material having at least one reversely folded portion providing a seam appearing line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said line extends between the side edges of said headliner.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
24 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said line extends laterally of said headliner between the longitudinally side edges of said headliner.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said line extends longitudinally of said headliner between the forward and rearward edges thereof.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 which includes a plurality of folded portions each of which provides a seam appearing line.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 5 wherein said plurality of folded portions are generally parallel to one another.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
42 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said headliner comprises at least two sections having adjacent edges joined together to form an actual seam line, and wherein said seam appearing line and said actual seam line are similar in appearance.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 7 wherein said seam appearing line on said headliner is arranged generally parallel to said actual seam line.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said folded portion comprises a pair of adjacently oriented substantially parallel side sections.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 9 wherein said side sections are arranged generally perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 9 wherein said side sections are arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 9 wherein a portion of each of said side sections is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said side sections is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
56 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said folded portion is of a generally triangular cross-sectional shape and includes first and second side sections diverging away from the plane of said headliner and a third side section extending between said first and second sides and arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 7 wherein the adjacent edges of said headliner sections are generally parallel to one another.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 14 wherein said parallel edges are folded generally perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 14 wherein said parallel edges are folded parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 14 wherein a portion of each of said adjacent edges is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said adjacent edges is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material is scored adjacent said folded portion.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
33 words
The invention as set forth in claim 18 wherein said score is in the form of an elongated score line formed on the side of said headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 18 wherein said score is in the form of a score line formed on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 18 wherein said folded portion is folded along a score line in said material.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as set forth in claim 21 which includes additional score lines formed in said material parallel to said score line along which said material is folded.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
37 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said folded portion is formed with at least one slit running transversely thereto to permit bending of said headliner in a direction generally perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 23 wherein said folded portion extends transversely of said headliner and said slit extends longitudinally thereof.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 23 which includes a score line formed in said headliner and generally aligned with said slit.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
54 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said folded portion terminates adjacent one edge of said headliner, and wherein said edge is formed with a cut-away portion extending inwardly from the edge of said headliner and generally aligned with said folded portion to accommodate for curvature of the headliner upon assembly thereof.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 26 wherein said cut-away portion is of a generally V shape and includes converging sides which intersect at the center line of said folded portion.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 27 wherein said cut-away portion extends transversely of said headliner and which includes score lines extending longitudinally of said headliner.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said headliner comprises a single layer of a fibrous paper-like material.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
38 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said headliner comprises a laminated structure of at least two different materials, one of said materials comprising a substrate and the other of said materials comprising a covering medium.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material has the side thereof confronting the interior of the vehicle textured.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material has the side thereof confronting the interior of the vehicle colored.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
14 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said covering medium is textured.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
14 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said covering medium is colored.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material comprises a lamination of at least two layers, with one of said layers comprising a moisture barrier.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said covering medium comprises a resilient deformable material.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
16 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said covering medium comprises a pile-like material.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
15 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein one of said materials is perforated.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
15 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein each of said materials are perforated.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein each of said materials is folded at said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
31 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said substrate is folded and said covering medium extends over and conceals the line provided by the folded portion of said substrate.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
26 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said headliner comprises a lamination of multi-layers and wherein one of said layers comprises an insulating medium.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein said covering medium is formed with a score line.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 30 wherein both said covering medium and substrate are formed with score lines.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 wherein said material is recessed to accommodate for a vehicle sunvisor.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 45 which includes a second member fabricated of a relatively resilient deformable material and having a recessed area the rein adapted to nestingly receive a vehicle sunvisor.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 which includes means retaining said folded portion of said headliner in a folded configuration.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 which includes an elongated relatively rigid member extending generally parallel to said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein said rigid member comprises an inverted U-shaped channel defining an elongated recess adapted to nestingly receive at least part of said folded portion.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 7 which includes securing means for fixedly securing said adjacent edges to one another.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 50 wherein said securing means comprises first and second sections engageable with the opposite sides of the adjacent edges of said headliner sections.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
16 words
The invention as set forth in claim 51 which includes means extending between said engageable sections.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 52 wherein said means extending between said sections comprises projection means on one of said sections, and wherein the other of said sections includes projection receiving means.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 53 wherein said projection means extends through said adjacent edges of said headliner.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
41 words
The invention as set forth in claim 54 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of one of said sections and wherein said projection receiving means includes portions of the other of said sections adapted for engagement with said projection means.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 7 which includes means for fixedly securing said adjacent edges together, said securing means including first and second clamping sections.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
29 words
The invention as set forth in claim 56 which includes projection means on one of said clamping sections and projection receiving means on the other of said clamping sections.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein said rigid member comprises a thin rod-like element.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
31 words
The invention as set forth in claim 58 wherein said rod-like element extends through a loop-shaped member on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 59 wherein said loop-shaped member is formed by said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 58 wherein said rod-like member comprises first and second rod sections.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 61 which includes coupling means for operatively connecting adjacent ends of said rod sections.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 58 wherein said coupling means is disposed generally centrally of said headliner.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 1 which includes an elongated rod-like member extending perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 64 wherein said rod-like member extends through said folded portion.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
42 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein the vehicle roof includes a structural roof bow on the underside thereof and which includes connecting means on said rigid member engageable with said roof bow for at least partially supporting said headliner.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as set forth in claim 66 wherein said rigid member comprises a channel-like member and wherein said connecting means is formed integrally of said rigid member.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein said rigid member is slit transversely thereof to permit bending in order to conform with the shape of the associated roof.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
24 words
The invention as set forth in claim 67 which includes engageable projection and projection receiving means for connecting said member to said roof bow.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 64 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of said rigid member.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 49 which includes securing teeth on said channel adapted for engagement with said folded portion.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein the opposite ends of said rigid member are adapted for engagement with the longitudinally extending lateral roof rails of the associated vehicle roof.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
87 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a first member fabricated of relatively rigid but foldable material, a second member adapted to be oriented adjacent said first member, and the adjacent edges of said first and second members forming a seam line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle, one of said first members having a portion thereof reversely folded and providing a line similar in appearance to said seam line.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
87 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a first member fabricated of relatively rigid but foldable material, a second member adapted to be oriented adjacent said first member, and the adjacent edges of said first and second members forming a seam line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle, one of said first members having a portion thereof reversely folded and providing a line similar in appearance to said seam line.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
13 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said lines are parallel.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 74 wherein said lines extend laterally of said headliner between the longitudinal side edges thereof.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 74 wherein said lines extend longitudinally between the forward and rearward edges of said headliner.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein both of said members are fabricated of a rigid foldable material.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein one of said members is fabricated of a resilient deformable polymeric material.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said folded portion comprises a pair of adjacently oriented substantially parallel side sections.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 79 wherein said side sections are arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 79 wherein said side sections are arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 79 wherein a portion of each of said side sections is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said side sections is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
54 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said folded portion is of a generally triangular cross-sectional shape and includes first and second sides diverging away from the plane of said headliner and a third side extending between said first and second sides and arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein the adjacent edges of said members are generally parallel to one another.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 84 wherein said parallel edges are folded generally perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 84 wherein said parallel edges are folded parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 84 wherein a portion of each of said adjacent edges is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said adjacent edges is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 which includes a score line adjacent said seam line.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
26 words
The invention as set forth in claim 88 wherein said score line is formed on the side of said headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as set forth in claim 88 wherein said score line is formed on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 88 wherein said member is folded along said score line.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 91 which includes at least one score line in addition to said score line adjacent said seam line.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
37 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said folded portion is formed with at least one slit running transversely thereto to permit bending of said headliner in a direction generally perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 93 wherein said folded portion extends transversely of said headliner and said slit extends longitudinally thereof.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 93 which includes a score line formed in said headliner and generally aligned with said slit.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
54 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said folded portion terminates adjacent one edge of said headliner, and wherein said edge is formed with a cut-away portion extending inwardly from the edge of said headliner and generally aligned with said folded portion to accommodate for curvature of the headliner upon installation thereof.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 96 wherein said cut-away portion is of a generally V shape and includes converging sides which intersect at the center line of said folded portion.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 97 wherein said cut-away portion extends transversely of said headliner and which includes score lines extending longitudinally of said headliner.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
24 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein one of said members is fabricated of a single layer of a fibrous paper-like material.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
40 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein one of said members comprises a laminated structure of at least two different materials, one of said materials comprising a substrate and the other of said materials comprising a covering medium.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said members have the sides thereof confronting the interior of the vehicle textured.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein said members have the sides thereof confronting the interior of the vehicle colored.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
14 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein said covering medium is textured.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
14 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein said covering medium is colored.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein one of said members comprises a lamination of at least two layers, with one of said layers comprising a moisture barrier.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein said covering medium comprises a resilient deformable material.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
16 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein said covering medium comprises a pile-like material.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
15 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein one of said members is perforated.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
15 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein each of said members is perforated.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 100 wherein each of said materials is folded at said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 wherein one of said members is recessed to accommodate for a vehicle sunvisor.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
26 words
The invention as set forth in claim 78 wherein said resilient member is formed with a recessed area therein adapted to nestingly receive a vehicle sunvisor.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 which includes an elongated relatively rigid member extending generally parallel to said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 113 wherein said rigid member comprises an inverted U-shaped channel defining an elongated recess adapted to nestingly receive at least part of said folded portion.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
38 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 which includes securing means for fixedly securing said adjacent edges to one another, said securing means including an elongated inverted U-shaped channel-like member adapted for telescopic engagement with said edges.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 113 wherein said rigid member comprises first and second cooperable clamping sections.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 116 which includes means extending between said clamping sections for fixedly securing the same to said folded portion.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 117 wherein said means extending between said sections comprises projection means on one of said sections, and wherein the other of said sections includes projection receiving means.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 118 wherein said projection means extends through said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
41 words
The invention as set forth in claim 119 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of one of said sections and wherein said projection receiving means includes portions of the other of said sections adapted for engagement with said projection means.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 118 wherein said rigid member comprises a thin rod-like element.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
31 words
The invention as set forth in claim 121 wherein said rod-like element extends through a loop-shaped member on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 122 wherein said loop-shaped member is formed by said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 121 wherein said rod-like member comprises first and second rod sections.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 124 which includes coupling means for operatively connecting adjacent ends of said rod sections.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 121 wherein said rod-like member extends through said folded portion.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 73 which includes means for fixedly securing said adjacent edges together, said securing means including first and second clamping sections.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
29 words
The invention as set forth in claim 127 which includes projection means on one of said clamping sections and projection receiving means on the other of said clamping sections.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
42 words
The invention as set forth in claim 113 wherein the vehicle roof includes a structural roof bow on the underside thereof and which includes connecting means on said rigid member engageable with said roof bow for at least partially supporting said headliner.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
28 words
The invention as set forth in claim 129 wherein said rigid member comprises a channel-like member and wherein said connecting means is formed integrally of said rigid member.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 113 wherein said rigid member is slit transversely thereof to permit bending in order to conform with the shape of the associated roof.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
24 words
The invention as set forth in claim 130 which includes engageable projection and projection receiving means for connecting said member to said roof bow.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 132 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of said rigid member.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 114 which includes securing teeth on said channel adapted for engagement with said folded portion.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 113 wherein the opposite ends of said rigid member are adapted for engagement with the longitudinally extending lateral roof rails of the associated vehicle roof.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
90 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising first and second members fabricated of relatively rigid foldable material arranged in generally side-by-side substantially coplanar relation and having adjacent edge portions folded out of the plane of said headliner, and connecting means engageable with said edge portions of said members for fixedly securing said members together, one of said members including a folded portion providing a seam appearing line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
90 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising first and second members fabricated of relatively rigid foldable material arranged in generally side-by-side substantially coplanar relation and having adjacent edge portions folded out of the plane of said headliner, and connecting means engageable with said edge portions of said members for fixedly securing said members together, one of said members including a folded portion providing a seam appearing line on the side of the headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said members provide a seam line at the joined adjacent edges thereof.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said seam appearing line and said seam extend parallel to one another.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 138 wherein said lines extend laterally of said headliner between the longitudinal side edges thereof.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 138 wherein said lines extend longitudinally between the forward and rearward edges of said headliner.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said folded edges are arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said folded edges are arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
42 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein a portion of each of said edges is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said edges is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said edges of said members are generally parallel to each other.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein one of said members is scored adjacent said edge portions.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
33 words
The invention as set forth in claim 145 wherein said score is in the form of an elongated score line formed on the side of said headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 145 wherein said score is in the form of a score line formed on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 145 wherein said one member is folded along said score line.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
29 words
The invention as set forth in claim 148 which includes additional score lines formed in said members parallel to said score line along which said one member is folded.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
38 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said folded edge portions are formed with at least one slit running transversely thereto to permit bending of said headliner in a direction generally perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 150 wherein said folded portion extends transversely of said headliner and said slit extends longitudinally thereof.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 150 which includes a score line formed in said headliner and generally alinged with said slit.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein said edge portions are cut away at the adjacent ends thereof to accommodate for curvature of the headliner upon installation thereof.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
33 words
The invention as set forth in claim 153 wherein said cut-away portions of said adjacent edges form a generally V-shaped recess and includes converging sides which intersect at the seam between said members.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 154 wherein said cut-away portions extend transversely of said headliner and which include score lines extending longitudinally of said headliner.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein one of said members comprises a single layer of a fibrous paper-like material.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 136 wherein each of said members consists of a laminated structure comprising a substrate and a covering medium.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 157 wherein said covering medium of said members is similar in appearance.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 157 wherein both said substrate and said covering medium are folded at said edges.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 137 wherein one of said members is recessed to accommodate for a vehicle sunvisor.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 160 wherein said one member is fabricated of a relatively resilient deformable material.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 137 which includes an elongated relatively rigid member extending generally parallel to said edge portions.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 162 wherein said rigid member comprises an inverted U-shaped channel defining an elongated recess adapted to nestingly receive at least part of said edge portions.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 137 wherein said means for securing said adjacent edge portions to one another includes an elongated inverted U-shaped channel-like member adapted for engagement with said edge portions.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 162 wherein said rigid member comprises first and second cooperable clamping sections.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 165 which includes means extending between said clamping sections for fixedly securing the same to said edge portions.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 166 wherein said means extending between said sections comprises projection means on one of said sections, and wherein the other of said sections includes projection receiving means.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 167 wherein said projection means extends through said edge portions of said headliner.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
42 words
The invention as set forth in claim 168 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of one of said sections and wherein said project ion receiving means includes portions of the other of said sections adapted for engagement with said projection means.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
39 words
The invention is set forth in claim 162 wherein the vehicle roof includes a structural roof bow on the underside thereof and wherein said connecting means is cooperable with said roof bow for at least partially supporting said headliner.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
26 words
The invention as set forth in claim 170 wherein said connecting means comprises a channel-like member and which includes projection means cooperable with the roof bow.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 162 wherein said rigid member is slit transversely thereof to permit bending in order to conform with the shape of the associated roof.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 171 wherein said projection means is formed integrally of said channel-like member.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 163 which includes securing teeth on said channel adapted for engagement with said edge portions.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 162 wherein the opposite ends of said rigid member are adapted for engagement with the longitudinally extending lateral roof rails of the associated vehicle roof.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
80 words
A vehicle headliner construction adatped to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded out of the plane of the headliner so as to provide a seam appearing line on the side of said headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle, and supporting means engageable with said portion of said headliner for securing the same to the underside of the associated vehicle roof.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
80 words
A vehicle headliner construction adatped to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded out of the plane of the headliner so as to provide a seam appearing line on the side of said headliner confronting the interior of the vehicle, and supporting means engageable with said portion of said headliner for securing the same to the underside of the associated vehicle roof.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said folded portion is located along one edge of said headliner.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said folded portion comprises a central part of said headliner material.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
45 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said material comprises said first and second headliner sections arranged adjacent one another, with confronting edges of said sections being folded out of the plane of said headliner and adapted for engagement with said support means.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said folded portion comprises a pair of adjacently oriented substantially paralle side sections.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 180 wherein said side sections are arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 180 wherein said side sections are arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 180 wherein a portion of each of said side sections is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said side sections is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
54 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said folded portion is of a generally triangular cross-sectional shape and includes first and second sides diverging away from the plane of said headliner and a third side extending between said first and second sides and arranged generally parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 179 wherein said edges of said sections are generally parallel to one another.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim
22 words
The invention as set forth in claim 185 wherein said parallel edges are folded generally perpendicular to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 185 wherein said parallel edges are folded parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 185 wherein a portion of each of said side sections is arranged perpendicular to the plane of said headliner and another portion of each of said side sections is arranged parallel to the plane of said headliner.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said support means is fabricated of a molded plastic material.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said supporting means comprises an inverted U-shaped channel defining an elongated recess adapted to nestingly receive at least part of said folded portion.
Claim 195
Dependent Claim
19 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said supporting means comprises first and second cooperable clamping sections.
Claim 196
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention as set forth in claim 191 which includes means extending between said clamping sections for fixedly securing the same to said folded portion.
Claim 197
Dependent Claim
34 words
The invention as set forth in claim 192 wherein said means extending between said sections comprises projection means on one of said sections, and wherein the other of said sections includes projection receiving means.
Claim 198
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 193 wherein said projection means extends through said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 199
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said support means comprises a thin rod-like element.
Claim 200
Dependent Claim
32 words
The invention as set forth in claim 195 wherein said rod-like element extends through at least one aperture on the side of said headliner opposite that confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 201
Dependent Claim
20 words
The invention as set forth in claim 196 wherein said aperture is formed in said folded portion of said headliner.
Claim 202
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 196 wherein said rod-like member extends perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 203
Dependent Claim
18 words
The invention as set forth in claim 196 wherein said rod-like member extends perpendicular to said folded portion.
Claim 204
Dependent Claim
17 words
The invention as set forth in claim 196 wherein said rod-like member extends through said folded portion.
Claim 205
Dependent Claim
44 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein the vehicle roof includes a structural roof bow on the underside thereof and wherein said support means comprises an elongated relatively rigid member engageable with said roof bow for at least partially supporting said headliner.
Claim 206
Dependent Claim
33 words
The invention as set forth in claim 201 wherein said support means comprises a channel-like member and which includes connecting means formed integrally of said element and selectively engageable with the roof bow.
Claim 207
Dependent Claim
30 words
The invention as set forth in claim 201 wherein said rigid member is slit transversely thereof to permit bending in order to conform with the shape of the associated roof.
Claim 208
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 203 wherein said connecting means comprises an upwardly extending projection on said channel-like member.
Claim 209
Dependent Claim
23 words
The invention as set forth in claim 176 wherein said supporting means includes at least in part magnet means secured to said material.
Claim 210
Dependent Claim
21 words
The invention as set forth in claim 205 wherein said layer of material is of a relatively rigid but foldable construction.
Claim 211
Dependent Claim
27 words
The invention as set forth in claim 206 wherein said magnet means is embedded in a layer of material laminated to said first mentioned layer of material.
Claim 212
Dependent Claim
36 words
The invention as set forth in claim 205 wherein said material comprises multi-laminated layers, and wherein said magnet means is connected to one of said layers other than the layer confronting the interior of the vehicle.
Claim 213
Dependent Claim
43 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein said rigid member extends generally parallel to said folded portion of said headliner and including projection means adapted to extend through said folded portion of said headliner for securing said folded portion against separation.
Claim 214
Dependent Claim
41 words
The invention as set forth in claim 48 wherein said rigid member is of a preformed configuration whereby when said folded portion of said headliner is secured thereto, portions of said headliner will assume the general curvature of said rigid member.
Claim 215
Dependent Claim
83 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded out of the plane of said headliner and projecting upwardly therefrom and providing an area of attachment connected integrally to said headliner but out of the general plane thereof, and an attachment element connectable to said area for at least partially retaining said headliner in its operative position within the associated vehicle.
Claim 216
Dependent Claim
83 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded out of the plane of said headliner and projecting upwardly therefrom and providing an area of attachment connected integrally to said headliner but out of the general plane thereof, and an attachment element connectable to said area for at least partially retaining said headliner in its operative position within the associated vehicle.
Claim 217
Dependent Claim
122 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded and located on the side of the headliner confronting the roof of the associated vehicle, a relatively rigid stiffening member connected at least in part to said folded portion of said headliner and adapted to impart sufficient stiffness to said headliner so that the same will assume a predetermined operative position within the vehicle, said stiffening member being independent of and not connected to the side rails of the vehicle so as to serve the sole purpose of stiffening said headliner and not functioning to secure the same to the vehicle.
Claim 218
Dependent Claim
122 words
A vehicle headliner construction adapted to be mounted adjacent the underside of a vehicle roof, said headliner comprising a sheet of a relatively rigid foldable material having a portion thereof folded and located on the side of the headliner confronting the roof of the associated vehicle, a relatively rigid stiffening member connected at least in part to said folded portion of said headliner and adapted to impart sufficient stiffness to said headliner so that the same will assume a predetermined operative position within the vehicle, said stiffening member being independent of and not connected to the side rails of the vehicle so as to serve the sole purpose of stiffening said headliner and not functioning to secure the same to the vehicle.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1979-04-27 | 1979-10-27 | 1980-04-27 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1983-04-27 | 1983-10-27 | 1984-04-27 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1987-04-27 | 1987-10-27 | 1988-04-27 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |