WO2008121760A1

WO2008121760A1 - Roof system for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2008121760A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/058565
Authority: WO
Inventors: David B. Busch
Original assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
Priority date: 2007-03-30
Filing date: 2008-03-28
Publication date: 2008-10-09

Abstract

A roof system for a vehicle is provided. The roof system comprises a panel assembly including a transparent roof panel (16) having a first panel section and a second panel section, a perimeter trim member (20) substantially surrounding the panel assembly and a console (70) separating the first panel section from the second panel section. The console comprises a first structural member (120) coupled to the first panel section and the second panel section and extending between the perimeter trim member. The console also comprises a second structural' member (122) coupled to the first structural member and extending between the perimeter trim member. At least one of the first structural member and the second structural member defines a cavity. The console also comprises a service module (124) at least partially received in the cavity.

Description

ROOF SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/907,385 having a filing date of March 30, 2007 and titled "Roof System for a Vehicle," the complete disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a roof system for a vehicle. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a roof system having a transparent panel. The present disclosure also relates to an overhead console configured to provide structural reinforcement to a roof system having a transparent panel.

[0003] Roof panels for use in vehicles are generally known. For example, conventional roof systems may include a transparent panel or window along the roof of the vehicle to permit occupants within the vehicle to see through the roof and view overhead external surroundings. However, the view provided through such transparent roof panels is typically limited to the surroundings, scenery and lighting available at the particular location of the vehicle. In another example, sunroofs and moon-roofs for vehicle roofs are also generally known for permitting a vehicle user to open a transparent or non-transparent portion of the vehicle roof for viewing, ventilation, etc. However, the view provided by such sunroofs and moon-roofs are also typically limited to the surroundings, scenery and lighting available at the particular location of the vehicle, and may in some cases require opening the roof to obtain the view.

[0004] A sunroof or moon roof extending across a vehicle roof creates structural issues for the vehicle. The structural requirements of the vehicle roof generally require a roof bow or structure to reinforce the roof at the B-pillar.

[0005] In a further example, video display panels mounted to a roof panel and configured to fold down for viewing by occupants of the vehicle are also generally known. However, such display panels typically do not also provide capability of direct viewing of the vehicle's surroundings through the display panel. Further, such display panels typically do not include built-in touch-control devices and ventilation capacity.

SUMMARY

[0006] One exemplary embodiment relates to a roof system for a vehicle. The roof system comprises a panel assembly including a transparent roof panel having a first panel section and a second panel section, a perimeter trim member substantially surrounding the panel assembly and a console separating the first panel section from the second panel section. The console comprises a first structural member coupled to the first panel section and the second panel section and extending between the perimeter trim member. The console also comprises a second structural member coupled to the first structural member and extending between the perimeter trim member. At least one of the first structural member and the second structural member defines a cavity. The console also comprises a service module at least partially received in the cavity.

[0007] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a console for a vehicle. The vehicle includes a panel assembly having a first transparent roof panel, a second transparent roof panel and a perimeter trim member substantially surrounding the panel assembly. The console comprises a first structural member configured to separate the first transparent roof panel from the second transparent roof panel and extend between the perimeter trim member. The console also comprises a second structural member coupled to the first structural member and configured to extend between the perimeter trim member in alignment with the first structural member. The second structural member defines a cavity. The console further comprises a service module coupled to the console and at least partially disposed in the cavity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIGURE l is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of a roof system according to an exemplary embodiment. [0009] FIGURE 2 is a schematic illustration of a partial cross sectional view of a roof system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] FIGURES 3A-3D are schematic illustrations of a roof system having various display images provided thereon.

[0011] FIGURE 4 A is a schematic illustration of a roof system having a console with a lighting and media display section integrated with a translucent display panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] FIGURE 4B is a schematic illustration of a roof system having another console with a lighting and media display section integrated with a translucent display panel according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] FIGURE 5 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0014] FIGURE 6 is another schematic illustration of a perspective view of the roof system shown in FIGURE 5.

[0015] FIGURE 7 is a schematic illustration of a top view of a perimeter trim member for a roof system according to an exemplary embodiment after being formed by a molding process.

[0016] FIGURE 8 is a schematic illustration of a top view of the perimeter trim member of FIGURE 7 shown after being assembled.

[0017] FIGURE 9 is a schematic illustration of a top view of a perimeter trim member for a roof system according to another exemplary embodiment after being formed by a molding process.

[0018] FIGURE 10 is a schematic illustration of a rear perspective view of a component at least partially mounted to a roof system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] FIGURE 11 is a schematic illustration of a front perspective view of the component of FIGURE 10 at least partially mounted to the roof system.

[0020] FIGURE 12 is a schematic illustration of a front elevation view of the component of FIGURE 10 shown in a stowed position.

[0021] FIGURE 13 is a schematic illustration of a side elevation view of the component of FIGURE 10 shown in the stowed position.

[0022] FIGURE 14 are schematic illustrations of a glass roof system including embedded lighting and electronic features, including controls and sensors, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] FIGURE 15 is a schematic cross-section of a console for a roof system according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] A roof system can have a generally transparent panel (e.g. glass panel, etc.) configured for viewing of the external surroundings by occupants of the vehicle. A console coupled to the generally transparent panel (e.g., moon, vista roof) can provide structural reinforcement at the B-pillar and can provide a low profile and light weight. The console also can provide a housing for electrical and lighting features and storage.

[0025] A roof system also can have a display panel formed on, in, or with the transparent panel to display images (e.g. video images, etc.) on the transparent panel for viewing by the occupants of the vehicle (e.g. when viewing of external surroundings is unavailable, undesirable, not preferred, etc.). A roof system can have a transparent display panel configured to receive and display various images for viewing by occupants of the vehicle. The transparent display panel can be provided in a wide variety of sizes and shapes for use in a roof panel of a vehicle. A transparent display panel also can permit viewing the external surroundings in one mode and receiving uploaded data for displaying images on the roof in another mode. An image source or generator can be configured to provide data to the transparent display panel for display images as desired by an occupant of the vehicle. A transparent display panel can have touch-control actuation switches. Structure surrounding the transparent display panel to provide ventilation to or from the vehicle cabin can be provided. [0026] According to one embodiment, a roof system is disclosed and includes (among other features) a transparent view-through roof panel, a privacy panel, a transparent display panel, an illumination source, a power supply and an image generator. The transparent view-through roof panel is shown in FIGS 1-6 and 14 as an external window on the vehicle roof that may provide weatherproofmg and structural support to the roof. The privacy panel is shown (for example in FIG. 2) adjacent to the transparent view-through panel and is intended to be changeable between a transparent condition to permit viewing external surroundings and an opaque condition (e.g. white, off-white, etc.) to prevent viewing through the transparent panel and to support use of the display panel. The transparent display panel is coupled adjacent to the privacy panel and is intended to be capable of operation in a transparent mode so that occupants may view the external surroundings through the display panel and the privacy panel (in the transparent condition) and the roof panel. The transparent display panel is also capable of operation in an image mode for displaying an image (such as received from the image generator), so that occupants of the vehicle may selectively view the external surroundings through the roof system or view images displayed on the roof system. A transparent panel (with or without a privacy and/or display panel) may also include a user interface having a plurality of touch-activated switches and information displays formed along a translucent border region of the transparent panel for activation or perception by an occupant of the vehicle. One or more ambient lighting bands may also be provided at least partially along the perimeter of the transparent panel to provide low-intensity, mono or variable color lighting within the vehicle cabin. A perimeter trim member may also be used to surround and support the transparent panel, and may have a ventilation system with a cavity or plenum and vent opening formed therein for providing a source of ventilation surrounding a perimeter of the transparent panel.

[0027] Another embodiment of a console for a vehicle includes a vehicle roof. The console replaces and/or functions as a roof bow and includes a first structural member configured to traverse the vehicle roof and couple to the vehicle. A second structural member is configured to traverse the vehicle roof and couple to the first structural member. The console adds structural reinforcement to the vehicle roof. According to an exemplary embodiment, a cavity is defined by the first and second structural member. A service module is coupled to the second structural member and disposed in the cavity. The service module may include embedded lighting and electronic features, including controls, sensors, screens and the like.

[0028] The FIGURES illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an assembly of components shown as a window roof system for use in a vehicle (e.g., automobiles such as cars, minivans, trucks, buses, and the like; airplanes; boats; etc.). Such roof systems may be provided in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, materials and configurations (i.e. one or more panels, etc.) according to various exemplary embodiments. The components shown and described for the roof system may also be used to permit see-through viewing and image display for other windows or transparent panels within a vehicle. Accordingly all such roof systems are intended to be within the scope of the subject matter described herein.

[0029] Referring to the FIGURES, the roof system 10 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment and is intended for use in a first mode (e.g. vista mode, etc. - see for example FIGURE 3 A where the roof is substantially transparent) to provide a roof panel assembly 12 that permits occupants of a vehicle to see-through the roof for viewing external surroundings. The roof system 10 is also intended for use in a second mode (e.g. privacy mode, etc. - see FIGURE 3B) to provide a roof panel assembly 12 that is generally opaque and does not permit (or substantially limits) viewing (e.g. prevents or restricts outsiders from looking in, blocks or reflects sunlight, etc.). The roof system 10 is also intended for use in a third mode (e.g. display mode, etc. - see FIGURES 3C-3D) for displaying objects or images on the interior roof of the vehicle for viewing by occupants of the vehicle (e.g. when viewing the external surroundings in the vista mode is unavailable, undesirable, not preferred, etc.).

[0030] Referring to the FIGURES, the roof panel assembly 12 of the roof system 10 is shown having a shape and size intended to cover a majority of the roof area of a vehicle, and are substantially surrounded by a perimeter trim member(s) 20 (e.g. frame, support, etc.) that provides structural and functional support to the roof panel assembly 12, and acts as a trim piece or bezel for trimming out the overhead area of the vehicle. The perimeter trim member 20 may be provided as a single piece, or as multiple pieces configured for interconnection, or as extendable/retractable (e.g. telescoping, etc.) members configured for use with roof panels of varying sizes (e.g. for multiple vehicle programs, etc.). The perimeter trim member 20 may also be configured for retaining other overhead components (e.g. consoles, instruments, visors, grab-handles, communication devices (e.g. speakers, microphones, switches, etc.), wiring and electrical components, illumination devices, head impact countermeasure (HIC) devices, etc. - not shown). According to alternative embodiments, the panels of the roof panel assembly 12 may be provided in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and for various types of vehicles and vehicle programs. For example, the panels of the roof system may be generally fixed as shown in the FIGURES, but may also be movable, such as in the form of a sunroof or moon-roof window that is liftable, slidable, tiltable, etc., or may be removable (e.g. for service, repair, etc.). hi addition, the panel assembly may be provided as a single panel or as multiple panels.

[0031] The perimeter trim member 20 also may include a ventilation system comprising air supply passages 22 (e.g. ducts, etc.) integrated within side pillars 24 of the vehicle body (shown for example as two ducts within a hollow B pillar in FIGURE 1) that communicate with an airspace shown as a cavity or plenum 26 (see FIGURE 2) behind the perimeter trim member 20 for directing a flow of air through an opening 28 (e.g. slot, gap, slit, vent, etc.) formed in the perimeter trim member 20 around all, or a portion, of the perimeter of the roof panel assembly 12 so that the vehicle cabin may be ventilated by directing or driving a flow of air with a fan (not shown) through passages 22 and vent 28. The airflow may also be generated by any suitable arrangement for creating a pressure differential (e.g. positive or negative) between the vehicle cabin and exterior environment. According to an alternative embodiment, the air may be drawn through the vent in a reverse direction to remove air from the vehicle cabin (such as when the cabin is at an elevated temperature after being parked in sunlight, etc.) by operating the fan (or generating a pressure differential) in a reverse direction. According to a further alternative embodiment, a supplemental fan may be disposed within or proximate the plenum and arranged to communicate through a roof vent with the external environment, so that a user may actuate the supplemental fan through suitable controls (such as touch-activated controls integrated with the roof panel as shown for example in FIGURE 1), to draw air from the external environment into the cabin (with the supplemental fan operating in one direction) or to discharge air from the vehicle cabin to the external environment (with the supplemental fan operating in the reverse direction). According to a further alternative embodiment, the vent may be formed by a gap arranged between two partially overlapping segments of a perimeter trim member assembly, so that a peripheral vent is formed between two vertically stacked portions of a perimeter trim assembly.

[0032] Referring to FIGURE 2, the arrangement of the panels of the roof panel assembly 12 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The panels of the roof system are shown layered in a generally stacked arrangement where the transparent roof panel 14 is shown as an external panel, the transparent display panel is shown as an internal panel 16, and the privacy panel 18 is shown positioned between the roof panel 14 and the display panel 16. The edges of the panels may be provided with a suitable seal or gasket intended to prevent entry of moisture or other contaminants within the space between the panels. According to the illustrated embodiment, in the vista mode, the privacy panel 18 is transparent and the display panel is transparent 16 (i.e. not displaying an image) so that an occupant of the vehicle may see-through the layered panels and view surroundings (or other objects) external to the vehicle. In the privacy mode, the privacy panel 18 becomes substantially opaque (and in a desired color) to block or prevent viewing through the roof of the vehicle (e.g. to prevent sunlight exposure, or to prevent visual access by others outside the vehicle, etc.). According to one embodiment, the privacy panel 18 may include electrochromic (EC) glass technology (such as, for example, EC technology used to darken rear view mirrors in vehicles). According to another embodiment, the privacy panel 18 may include a translucent white EC material in large format (e.g. such as, for example, EC technology used to self-shade building windows). The privacy panel 18 may be configured for use with either light or dark opaqueness depending on the intended application and images to be displayed, and/or the color and effect of the background on the images to be displayed. According to alternative embodiments, any suitable technology may be used for changing the privacy panel from a transparent condition to an opaque condition, or by further way of example, for changing the privacy panel from having a reflective finish to a non- reflective finish. In the display mode, the privacy panel 18 remains opaque and serves as a contrasting back-screen for the images displayed on the transparent display panel 16.

[0033] As shown in FIGURE 2, for embodiments that use a back-lighted display, an illumination source 30 may be provided between the roof panel 14 and the privacy panel 18 and attached to, or embedded in, the perimeter trim member 20 for providing a source of illumination along a back side of the privacy panel 18 (when viewed from the vehicle interior). The illumination source 30 may be provided by light emitting diodes (e.g. white LEDs and/or colored LEDs that may be mounted along an edge of the panel or light-piped to the panel), incandescent bulbs, or other suitable illumination source. According to an alternative embodiment, the roof system may be provided without a privacy panel. For example, the roof system may be provided with a single panel that is transparent in one mode and may be activatable to an opaque condition in a second mode for privacy. The single panel may also be capable of displaying images directly on a surface of the panel for viewing by a user.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the roof panel 14 is a substantially transparent member made from a suitable material (e.g. glass, etc.) and having a suitable thickness to provide the desired structural support for the roof system 10 on the vehicle. The privacy panel 18 is shown positioned interior and adjacent to the roof panel 14 and may be separated by a gap having a sufficient size intended to provide an area for backlighting the privacy panel 18 when operating in the display mode. The privacy panel 18 is made of a suitable material (e.g. glass, etc.) having characteristics that are capable of changing from a substantially transparent condition (for use in the vista mode) and an opaque condition (e.g. white, off-white, black, etc.) for use in preventing or blocking visual access through the roof during the privacy mode and to act as a back-screen to provide contrast (and/or backlighting) for the images displayed on the display panel 16 during the display mode. The display panel 16 is formed from a relatively thin, transparent substrate material (e.g. plastic, polymer, glass, etc.) having a display formed from suitable devices or technology such as thin- film transistors (TFT), or organic light emitting diodes (OLED), electrophoretics, liquid-crystal technology, or any other suitable technology or device (now known or future-developed) intended to display an image on a substantially transparent surface.

[0035] Referring further to FIGURE 2, during the display mode, an occupant of the vehicle may select (e.g. by actuating certain designated touch-activated switches) various images from an image source 40 (image generator, etc.) for viewing on the display panel 16. The image generator 40 is preferably a computer device configured to communicate (e.g. transmit, upload, link, etc.) the image data to the display panel 16. The image data may be communicated via a suitable wire/cable and connector system (e.g. including USB ports, etc. - which may be routed along a back or C side of the perimeter trim member 20) or may be communicated in a wireless manner (e.g. infrared, RF, Bluetooth, etc.). The images may be generally still images (as shown for example in FIGURE 3D), such as designs, abstract images, logos, insignias, pictures, photographs, murals, business information, operations or owner's manual information, or any of a wide variety of other still images. The images may also be dynamic images (as intended to be shown in the graphic representation of a radar weather map in FIGURE 3C), such as movie images, video clips, television images, weather maps, driving directions, interactive road maps, etc. The image generator 40 may be any suitable device for communicating data for display of an image on the display panel 16, such as a DVD player, MP3 player, iPod®, TiVo®, satellite receiver, PhatNoise® module, telephone, portable computing device, personal data assistant (PDA), etc. and may communicate in a hard-wired or wireless manner with the display panel. For example, the image generator 40 may be configured to communicate with a telephone and send data to the display panel for display the telephone number (and/or other data) related to an incoming telephone call. The display panel 16 may also be provided with data memory for storage of various images that may be directly selected for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle (e.g. from a console 70 on the roof system (see FIGURES 4A-4B), or a remote control device, etc.).

[0036] The roof system 10 also includes suitable wiring systems of a conventional type for providing power from a power source 42 or supply (e.g. vehicle battery system, etc.) to the display panel and the illumination devices, which may be routed along the C side of the perimeter trim member 20, or within the perimeter trim member(s) 20. The display panel 16 may also be configured to interface with the lighting system of an instrument panel of the vehicle, so that adjustment of the color or brightness of the instrument panel display will also result in a corresponding change in the color theme or brightness of the display panel.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the roof system 10 includes a control system 44 intended to control operation of the roof system in the various modes. For example, the control system 44 may include suitable switches (shown as touch- activated switches 52 shown schematically in FIGURE 1), wiring, connectors and electronics of a conventional type (or future-developed type) for turning the illumination device 30 on and off, and for changing the privacy panel 18 between the transparent condition and the opaque condition, and for providing power to the display panel 16, and for uploading data for display of images on the display panel 16, and for communicating with other components of the vehicle (e.g. instrument clusters, instrument panel, telephones, permanent or handheld GPS navigation devices, for changing the color of the ambient lighting devices 60 as the color of the displayed image changes, etc.). The control system 44 is intended to include a suitable interface through the touch-activated switches for operation by an occupant of the vehicle. However, the control system may also be activated by any other suitable interface, such as a control panel mounted within the vehicle, hand-held remote control device, voice-activated control device, etc.

[0038] Referring further to FIGURES 1 and 2, one panel of the roof panel assembly (shown for example as the transparent display panel 16, but may also be a single transparent panel for applications without a display or privacy function, or systems having a single panel) also includes a user-interface segment 50 on the transparent panel 16, shown for example as an opaque border (e.g. black, or other color intended to coordinate with an interior trim color scheme, etc.) which includes various touch- activated switches 52 (such as capacitance switches, etc.) that are provided for control of equipment such as the ventilation system, lighting, operation of the roof panel system, etc.), and various information displays 54 for communicating information to the user, and other objects such as lights 56. The cross car console (e.g., targa console) has similar features, such as capacitive switching, and hidden indicators until activated (backlit) by a video screen deployment or other suitable method. See FIGURES. 5 A, 5B and 6 and discussed further below. According to one embodiment, the user-interface border 50 is provided as a black colored border with a gloss finish, however, any suitable finish may be used (e.g. matte, textured, etc.). User interface border 50 may also include a wide variety of other components integrated therein, such as hidden instrumentation and/or indicators (e.g. a compass, multi-function computer and display, task lighting, HVAC controls, temperature displays, back-lit icon-graphics, warning lights/indicators, remote actuation devices such as Homelink®, tire pressure monitor readouts, etc.). According to one embodiment, the functional elements built into or integrated with the border may remain hidden until activated (e.g. by activation by a user through touch, voice, etc.), or certain functional elements may be visible whenever the vehicle is occupied (such as through motion sensors in the vehicle cabin, activation of the vehicle ignition switch, etc.).

[0039] Referring further to FIGURES 1 and 2, ambient lighting devices (shown schematically as peripheral bands or light frames 60) are intended to provide soft or low-intensity lighting and are shown layered or otherwise integrated with transparent panel 16 and may be arranged internally or externally in relation to the user-interface border 50. The ambient light devices or bands 60 may be provided with any particular color or combination of colors and may be equipped with illumination sources such as LEDs that are located behind a cover having a light-dispersing coating or composition, or other suitable arrangement, such as light-pipe technology. The color of the light provided by the illumination source may be constant, or may be variable. For example, the color may be changed or the intensity varied by manual selection from a user, or the color may be automatically changed to coordinate/compliment the color of images generated by the image generator 40 and displayed on the display panel. The illumination sources for the lighting bands 60 may be controlled by the touch-activated switches 52 (or other suitable control devices) and may be arranged for on-off operation, or for variable-dimming operation. The ambient lighting bands 60 are shown to surround the perimeter of a roof panel, but may also be arranged to accent or outline a certain region on the roof panel or segregate one portion of the roof panel from another portion of the roof panel, or be provided as spots or islands to provide a desired ambient lighting arrangement.

[0040] Referring to FIGURES 4A and 4B, an alternative embodiment of the roof panels are shown to include a console section 70 (which may be hidden or exposed) and located at any suitable location on the roof panels. According to the illustrated embodiment of FIGURES 4A and 4B, the console 70 is shown for example as a centrally located console (shown as longitudinally extending in FIGURE 4A and laterally extending in FIGURE 4B). The console may be used in any suitable roof system application, but is also intended for use in vehicles having a structural crossbow, beam or other support member, where the console is located to correspond with the structural support location. The console may include lights 62 (such as low profile, high- intensity LED task lights, etc.) or any of a wide variety of media display devices 64, such as, but not limited to, song listings from digital music devices that interface with the vehicle information or entertainment system, telephone listings stored in a user's mobile telephone that interfaces with the vehicles communication system, navigational information provided by permanent or hand-held GPS devices, vehicle diagnostic or operating data provided by the vehicle's onboard computer system, etc. The displays 64 may be provided by any suitable thin-layer device (e.g. LCD, OLED, etc.) provided in or behind the surface of the panel, and are preferably hidden from ordinary view by a translucent (e.g. smoky, tinted, frosted, reflective, etc.) section of the panel. The portion of the panel overlaying the light 62 or display 64 may be shaped in the form of a lens or other suitable image-enhancing structure to direct the light to an intended location or enhance the readability of a display panel 64. The console 70 may be bordered or accented by ambient lighting bands 66, of a type as previously described. The lighting device 62 in the console 70 may also interface with the vehicle's warning or notification system to help alert a driver to an event detected by the vehicle's computer system (e.g. rain, freezing temperatures, abnormal vehicle operating condition, approaching hazards, etc.).

[0041] Referring to FIGURE 5, an embodiment of the roof system 10 utilizes reflective film on or embedded in the glass panels comprising the roof of the vehicle (also referred to as a vista roof). The reflective film illuminates as an ambient lighting function and as instrument controls 76, 78 as illustrated in FIGURE 5. The light source (see FIGURE 14) is hidden and is transmitted to an end use (sensor, controls, ambient light) by light tubes or fiber optics embedded in the glass structure as illustrated in FIGURE 14. Illuminated reflective film is similar to electroluminescence, however, shining a linear light source onto a surface is less costly than the electroluminescence method. As shown in FIGURE 14, the embedded fiber optics is included in the glass laminate forming the vehicle roof and is used for ambient or task lighting controls. Complementary and control circuitry can also be embedded in the glass laminates and coupled to the lights and film for various lighting functions.

[0042] Referring now to FIGURE 6, an embodiment of a roof system 10 includes a console 70 coupled to a vehicle headliner or perimeter trim member 20 of the vehicle roof system 10. The console 70, as illustrated in FIGURE 6, includes a rear seat entertainment system including a plurality of video screens. As illustrated in FIGURE 6, one video screen 72 is in a closed (stowed) position and another video screen 74 is in a open (used) position. Also included are the control panels for the screens that are illuminated as discussed above. The video screens are used to turn on or off the controls for the video and audio system included in the console. The controls for the open video screen are illuminated. The controls for the closed video screen are not illuminated. The back lighting for the various control functions is transmitted from a light source as described above.

[0043] Referring to FIGURE 15, a console 70 is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. From an interior compartment of the vehicle, the console 70, as illustrated in FIGURE 15, would have the same appearance to a vehicle occupant as the console 70, illustrated in FIGURES 5 and 6. However, the console 70, as illustrated in FIGURE 15, is also configured to replace and/or function as a roof bow in addition to providing the functionality of an overhead console. FIGURE 15 shows a cross-section of the console 70 according to an exemplary embodiment taken along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The console 70 is configured to add structural stability to the vehicle roof while providing a relatively light-weight housing for components (e.g., video screens, lights, controls, sensors, etc.).

[0044] Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 5 and 6, the console 70, as illustrated in FIGURE 15, may be a centrally located console extending laterally between a driver side and passenger side of the vehicle. According to the various alternative embodiments, the console 70 may be located at any suitable location on the roof panel. The console 70 generally includes a first or upper structural member 120, a second or lower structural member 122, and a service module 124. The first structural member 120 is formed of a substantially rigid material, such as a fiber reinforced plastic, and is shaped to generally follow the contour of the roof. The first structural member 120 traverses the vehicle roof in a lateral direction between the perimeter trim member and is coupled to both sides of the vehicle. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first structural member 120 is coupled to both side of the vehicle proximate to the B-pillars with one or more mechanical fasteners. The first structural member 120 could be coupled to the roof panel 14 or display panel 16 by conventional means.

[0045] The first structural member 120 is shown as including an upper portion or surface that defines a first recess or ledge 121 configured to receive an edge of a first panel 16 and a second recess or ledge 123 configured to receive an edge of a second panel 16. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first ledge 121 and the second ledge 122 extend substantially the length of the first structural member and are generally parallel to each other. A landing or platform 125 separates the first ledge 121 from the second ledge 123. According to the embodiment illustrated, a top surface of the platform 125 is substantially flush or even with a top surface of the first and second panels 16. According to an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the surface of the first and second ledges 121, 123 and the surface of the platform 125 is substantially the same as the thickness of the first and second panels 16.

[0046] The second structural member 122 is also formed of a substantially rigid material, such as a fiber reinforced plastic member. The second structural member 122 is aligned with the first structural member 120 by being positioned under the first structural member 120. As such, the second structural member 122 also traverses the vehicle roof in a lateral direction. The second structural member 122 is coupled to the first structural member 120 with mechanical fasteners, thermal bonding, adhesives, combinations of such items, or any other suitable coupling method. The second structural member 122 can be covered with a covering 130 such as a class A skin, for example, leather, fabric, wood laminate, or a combination of such materials. The skin 130 may also include graphics, back lit graphics, texture and color combinations or combination of such materials.

[0047] With the second structural member 122 coupled to the first structural member 120, at least a portion of the second structural member 122 is disposed away from the first structural member 120 to form a cavity 128 between the two members. The service module 124 is received in the cavity 128 through one or more openings in the second structural member 122. According to various exemplary embodiments, the service module 124 may include video screens, control panels, lights, or other components as described above. According to an exemplary embodiment, the service module 124 is coupled to the electrical system of the vehicle via a suitable connection.

[0048] Referring now to FIGURES 10 and 11, alternative embodiments for video or audio screens are illustrated. The screens can include a dark tinted transparent Plexiglas cover over the screen, or they may include a hole pattern as airflow support for a heat sink or as a cover over a speaker system. The screens can also function as a sunscreen by rotating the screen, like a visor. One embodiment of the screens include a hinge attachment on the side with the hinge base glued to the glass panel of the roof system 10 and a counter-hinge axis in the headliner perimeter trim.

[0049] As illustrated in FIGURES 10-13, adhering components to the glass of the roof system, with minimal bezel features, will maximize light or view around the components (such as visors, coat hooks, lighting, DVD, DVD screens, and other electronic components). Using commercially available adhesives appropriate for strength and safety requirements appropriate for OEM specifications (fritted glass, clear, tinted or the like) items may be completely attached to the glass or partially attached to hard trim or perimeter trim. It is contemplated that a mounting device will be attached to the glass laminate of the roof structure, and the component, such as the visor or screen, is coupled to the mounting device. If the screen or other electronic component should fail, or require servicing, it can be easily removed or replaced without removing the mounting device from the glass surface. Such configuration allows for servicing of the component without replacement or removal of the glass panel. The electronics and power needed for the screen or electronic component is routed through the glass as shown in FIGURE 14.

[0050] As illustrated in FIGURE 14, the power and control wiring circuitry 140 is embedded between two sheets of glass or appropriate clear plastic and laminated together. User interface to the various electronics is configured to be visually appealing with bevels of specific design adhered over button, switch, or plug-in access points. In addition to controls for various electronic components associated with the roof system, sensors can also be embedded in the glass laminate 102 of the roof system to trigger selective functions related with the vehicle. For example, lights 142, auto-glass dimming features or the like can be triggered by appropriate sensors.

[0051] Referring now to FIGURES 10 through 13, the roof system 10 is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. The roof system 10 includes a perimeter trim member 20 and a glass laminate assembly 102. According to the embodiment illustrated, the roof system 10 also includes a component (e.g., a media device such as an MP3 player, iPod®, TiVo®, satellite receiver, PhatNoise® module, telephone, portable computing device, personal data assistant (PDA), GPS device, etc.), shown as a first video display 72, that includes a portion that is supported by the glass laminate assembly 102. Controls associated with the first video display 72 may be provided on the first video display 72 itself, the glass laminate assembly 102 (as detailed above with respect to FIGURES 1 through 4B) and/or on the perimeter trim member 20. Such controls may be configured to be hidden from a user's view when the first video display 72 is not in use (e.g., when stowed, etc.) and/or may become visible (e.g., illuminated, etc.) upon movement of the first video display 72 as detailed above with respect to FIGURES 5 and 6. Any electronics (e.g., circuitry, etc.) and/or power needed for the first video display 72 can be routed through the glass laminate assembly 102, on the surface of the glass laminate assembly 102 and/or through the perimeter trim member 20.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first video display 72 is configured to be selectively moved between a first or use position (shown in FIGURES 10 and 11), wherein a display screen 110 of the first video display 72 is substantially visible to a user, and a second or stowed position (shown in FIGURES 12 and 13), wherein the display screen 110 is substantially concealed from the user. The first video display 72 can be configured to be moved manually between the use and stowed positions and/or may be configured to be moved via an automated system (e.g., using a powered actuator such as an electronic, hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, etc.).

[0053] In the use position, the first video display 72 can also function as a visor capable of blocking sunlight passing through the glass laminate assembly 102 from a seat occupant. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first video display 72 may include a darkened cover (e.g., a tinted transparent Plexiglas cover, etc.) provided over the display screen 110 of the first video display 72 so that when the first video display 72 is being used as a video display, ambient light coming through the glass laminate assembly 102 does not substantially impair a user's ability to view an image on the display screen 110.

[0054] In the stowed position, the first video display 72 is substantially parallel to the laminate glass assembly 102 in order to reduce the overall size of the stowed component. According to an exemplary embodiment, an airflow support member 108 for a heat sink and/or for a speaker system is provided along a backside of the first video display 72. The profile of the airflow support member 108 is minimized in an effort to reduce the overall size of the stowed component.

[0055] According to the embodiment illustrated, the first video display 72 is coupled to the glass laminate assembly 102 at a first support member (e.g., fastener, bracket, etc.), shown as a first hinge assembly 104, and is coupled to the perimeter trim assembly 20 at a second support member, shown as a second hinge assembly 106. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first hinge assembly 104 includes a mounting surface (e.g., base, etc.), shown as a mounting pad 112, that is configured to be directly mounted to the glass laminate assembly 102. The mounting pad 112 is shown as a substantially rectangular member, but according to the various alternative embodiments may be any of a variety of suitable shapes. Extending from the mounting pad 112 is a pivot rod or shaft that is intended to be substantially coaxial with a pivot rod or shaft of the second hinge assembly 106.

[0056] According to an exemplary embodiment, an adhesive is provided between the mounting pad 112 and the glass laminate assembly 102 to secure the mounting structure (i.e., mounting pad 112) of the first video display 72 thereto. According to an exemplary embodiment, the adhesion between the mounting pad 112 and the glass laminate assembly 102 is intended to be substantially permanent in nature. According to the various alternative embodiments, the mounting pad 112 may be designed to be detachably secured to the glass laminate assembly 102.

[0057] According to the various alternative embodiments, any of a variety of media devices (e.g., MP3 player, iPod®, TiVo®, satellite receiver, PhatNoise® module, telephone, portable computing device, personal data assistant (PDA), GPS device, etc.) or vehicle components (e.g., visors, hooks, straps, control panels, etc.) may be at least partially mounted to the glass laminate assembly 102.

[0058] Adhering components to the glass of the roof system 10, with minimal bezel features, will maximize light or view around the components (such as visors, coat hooks, lighting, video displays, and/or other components). Using a commercially available adhesives should be able to provide a strength suitable for the particular OEM specifications (fritted glass, clear, tinted or the like). The components may be completely mounted to the glass or partially attached to the glass (as shown).

[0059] Referring now to FIGURES 7-9, an embodiment of the roof system 10 for a vehicle includes a headliner or perimeter trim member 20. The headliner 20 is typically manufactured by a molding process such as injection molding, blow molding or other appropriate molding process. FIGURE 7 illustrates the nesting of the headliner 20 components 80, 82, 84, 86, 88, and 90 into a single layout 100 of a material. The components of the headliner are arranged to minimize scrap. After the molding process, the various components are cut out and arranged as illustrated in FIGURE 8. The various components are then coupled to each other using appropriate and suitable methods, such as adhesives, heat welding, or appropriate fasteners to provide an aesthetically pleasing headliner or perimeter trim member 20 also referred to as a picture frame. The headliner 20 can be coupled to the glass laminate assembly 102 as shown in FIGURE 9. The headliner perimeter trim member 20 is configured to conceal the various power, electronic and lighting wiring and optical fibers and control circuitry but include appropriate access to controls and sensors. The headliner perimeter trim member 20 can also be configured to include storage space and integrated air bags.

[0060] For purposes of this disclosure, the term coupled means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components or the two components and any additional member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0061] A roof system is provided that permits an occupant of the vehicle to choose from a variety of viewing options. The occupant may choose between a vista mode for seeing-through the panels for viewing objects or surroundings (e.g. scenery, signs, structures, etc.) external to the vehicle. The occupant may also choose a privacy mode where visual access through the panels is blocked (e.g. similar to a conventional vehicle roof without viewing capability). The occupant may also choose a display mode (e.g. when viewing of images displayed on the panel is desired or preferred over viewing external objects through the panels). A thin firm, transparent display screen is coupled to a roof panel so that the display mode can be activated by energizing the display screen and uploading an image from any suitable type of image source or generator. The display screen may be configured to operate with or without a contrasting back-screen (shown as a privacy panel) and with or without backlighting. The images may be pre-selected or pre-loaded still or dynamic images, or the images may be images received from a remote broadcast source for transmitting to the display panel. The roof system may be formed from multiple panels, or may be provided as a single panel, with or without privacy capability and with or without image display capability. The roof system may include a perimeter ventilation system intended to ventilate the vehicle cabin using a vent extending at least partially around the roof panels. The ventilation system includes an airspace or plenum that may also be configured to direct ventilation for use in cooling the panels of the roof system as necessary (i.e. due to internal or external (e.g. solar, etc.) heat generation). The display panel may also be provided with ambient lighting devices (such as bands extending around the perimeter of the panel, or around consoles or activity stations within the panel, or as spots' or islands, etc.) and may include a portion (shown as a border portion) arranged to contain instrumentation and user-interfaces in the form of touch activated switches.

[0062] The construction and arrangement of the elements of the roof system as shown in the illustrated and other exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present roof system have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited herein (e.g. materials for formation of the panels, technology for displaying images on the display panel, technology for changing a privacy panel between a transparent condition and an opaque condition, technology for communicating image signals to the display panel, etc.). For example, the perimeter trim, ventilation system, user- interface border and ambient lighting band(s) may be used in any suitable combination with one another, and with the roof panel assembly as shown, or with a single transparent roof panel. By further way of example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the roof system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, including any of a wide variety of materials (such as thin film plastic) in any of a wide variety of colors, combinations and suitable materials. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments.

[0063] The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re- sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

L A roof system for a vehicle, comprising: a panel assembly including a transparent roof panel having a first panel section and a second panel section; a perimeter trim member substantially surrounding the panel assembly; and a console separating the first panel section from the second panel section, the console comprising: a first structural member coupled to the first panel section and the second panel section, the first structural member extending between the perimeter trim member; a second structural member coupled to the first structural member and extending between the perimeter trim member, at least one of the first structural member and the second structural member defining a cavity; and a service module at least partially received in the cavity.

2. The roof system of Claim 1 including a covering coupled to the second structural member.

3. The roof system of Claim 2 wherein the covering is a material selected from at least one of leather, fabric, wood laminate, and a combination of such materials.

4. The roof system of Claim 1 including circuitry embedded in the transparent roof panel and coupled to the service module.

5. The roof system of Claim 4 wherein the circuitry routes power and control signals to the service module.

6. The roof system of Claim 1 wherein the service module is a display device including an user interface.

7. The roof system of Claim 6 wherein the user interface includes a plurality of switches disposed on a region of the console.

8. The roof system of Claim 6 wherein the display device is selectively movable between a use position and a stowed position.

9. The roof system of Claim 6 wherein the consoles further comprises a light source configured to illuminate the user interface.

10. The roof system of Claim 1 wherein the first panel section and the second panel section are coupled to an upper portion of the first structural member.

11. The roof system of Claim 11 wherein the upper portion of the first structural member includes a first ledge, a second ledge and a platform separating the first ledge from the second ledge, an edge of the first panel section being supported at the first ledge and an edge of the second panel section being supported at the second ledge.

12. The roof system of Claim 12 wherein the platform is substantially flush with a top surface of the first panel section and the second panel section.

13. The roof system of Claim 1 wherein the console extends laterally between the perimeter trim member and is configured to be coupled at each lateral side of the vehicle.

14. A console for a vehicle, the vehicle including a panel assembly having a first transparent roof panel, a second transparent roof panel and a perimeter trim member substantially surrounding the panel assembly, the console comprising: a first structural member configured to separate the first transparent roof panel from the second transparent roof panel and extend between the perimeter trim member; a second structural member coupled to the first structural member and configured to extend between the perimeter trim member in alignment with the first structural member, the second structural member defining a cavity; and a service module coupled to the console and at least partially disposed in the cavity.

15. The console of Claim 14 including a covering coupled to the second structural member.

16. The console of Claim 14 including a component coupled to the service module.

17. The console of Claim 16 wherein the component is a display device.

18. The console of Claim 14 wherein an upper portion of the first structural member is configured to be coupled to the first transparent roof panel and the second transparent roof panel.

19. The console of Claim 18 wherein the upper portion of the first structural member includes a first ledge for receiving the first transparent roof panel, a second ledge for receiving the second transparent roof panel and a platform separating the first ledge from the second ledge.

20. The console of Claim 19 wherein the platform is offset from the first ledge and the second ledge in a vertical direction a distance substantially equal to a thickness of the first transparent roof panel and the second transparent roof panel.