Kevin K Hester

US Patent:

6497448, Dec 24, 2002

Filed:

Nov 20, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/999088

Inventors:

Randy C Curtis - Macomb MI
Kevin G. Kolpasky - Sterling Heights MI
Timothy E Okenka - Shelby Township MI
Chris A Olsen - Rochester MI
Timothy C Slanec - Shelby Township MI
Matthew H Szalach - Washington Township MI
Kevin M Hester - Washington MI

Assignee:

General Motors Corporation - Detroit MI

International Classification:

B60J 502

US Classification:

2961468, 296106, 296108, 296223

Abstract:

There is disclosed a rearward closure assembly for an automotive vehicle. The assembly includes a rear panel and a rearward roof panel that can be moved along track guides that extend from a rear portion of the vehicle to the top of the vehicle. The rear panel can be translated from a first position to a second position such that the rear panel and roof panel are generally opposing and parallel to each other to open a lower portion of a rearward passageway of the vehicle. Thereafter, the rear panel and the roof panel can be translated above a top portion of the vehicle to open an upper portion of the rearward passageway.

US Patent:

7128451, Oct 31, 2006

Filed:

Jun 22, 2004

Appl. No.:

10/874120

Inventors:

Michael R Kaphengst - Leonard MI, US
Olimpia Maria Hernandez - Birmingham MI, US
Kevin M Hester - Rochester Hills MI, US
Bruce R. Koch - Goodrich MI, US

Assignee:

General Motors Corporation - Detroit MI

International Classification:

B60Q 3/02
F21S 4/00
F21Y 103/02

US Classification:

362492, 362216

Abstract:

An apparatus is provided for illuminating the interior of an automotive passenger vehicle for ingress and egress. The apparatus comprises a lighting device integrated into the periphery of a sun visor or similar object. The lighting device is typically activated by a remote entry device, a door opening, or by an interior switch. The apparatus is particularly applicable where overhead interior lighting is impractical, such as in convertibles and other types of vehicles with removable tops. The lighting device may be customized for color and intensity, as well as for physical configuration. The apparatus can also be used in lieu of conventional interior roof lighting as a manufacturing cost reduction.