ENCAPSULATED FIXED WINDOW MODULE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE

Abstract

An encapsulated fixed window module for a motor vehicle includes a fixed window pane, a first division post profile defining a longitudinal groove configured to receive a guide carried by a movable window pane. An exterior wall faces a fixed pane interior surface, and an over-molded material secures the first division post profile to the fixed window pane. The over-molded material has a first over-molded portion extending between the division post exterior wall and the fixed pane interior surface and a second over-molded portion extends between the lateral wall and the interior surface. The first portion is in contact with at least one protruding lip which is located between the exterior wall and the interior surface, the at least one protruding lip being compressed and elastically deformed between the exterior wall and the interior surface to prevent mold bleeds.

Claims

1. An encapsulated fixed window module for a motor vehicle, comprising: a fixed window pane having an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a peripheral edge extending between said exterior and interior surfaces, at least one division post extending along at least a portion of said peripheral edge, said division post comprising a first longitudinal profile which is U-shaped in cross section, said division post having an exterior wall, an interior wall, and a lateral wall connecting said exterior and interior walls, said first profile defining a longitudinal groove configured to receive a guide carried by a movable window pane, said exterior wall facing said interior surface, and an over-molded material securing said first profile to said fixed window pane, wherein said over-molded material is in contact with at least one protruding lip which is located between said exterior wall and said interior surface, said at least one protruding lip being elastically deformable from a first unconstrained position to a second constrained position in which said at least one protruding lip is elastically deformed, and wherein said at least one protruding lip is compressed between said exterior wall and said interior surface to adopt said second position.

2. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip is carried by said exterior wall.

3. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip is carried by said fixed window pane and connected to said interior surface.

4. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip includes two, three or four adjacent protruding lips, each of said adjacent protruding lips being elastically-deformable.

5. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said exterior wall is located at a first distance from said interior surface, said first distance being measured in a direction which is perpendicular to said interior surface, wherein said at least one protruding lip has a first height in said first position and a second height in said second position, said first and second heights being measured in a direction which is perpendicular to said interior surface, and wherein said second height is equal to said first distance, and said first height is greater that said second height and said first distance.

6. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip has a cross sectional curved shape and comprises a concave side which is oriented towards the lateral wall and an opposite convex side.

7. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 6, wherein said convex side is aligned and flush with a convex surface of said peripheral edge.

8. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein an empty space is defined between said at least one protruding lip and said interior surface.

9. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 7, wherein an empty space is defined between said opposite convex side and said interior surface.

10. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip has a cross sectional straight shape and extends perpendicularly to said interior surface.

11. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip comprises a securing base and at least one flexible lip extending from said securing base.

12. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 11, wherein said at least one protruding leg comprises a single securing base and a plurality of flexible lips connected to said single securing base.

13. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip is overmolded onto said interior surface or onto said exterior wall.

14. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip is made of a material of said exterior wall or from one of materials of said exterior wall.

15. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one protruding lip is located at a first end of said exterior wall which is opposite to said lateral wall, or is located at a second end of said exterior wall which is opposite to said first end.

16. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said exterior wall carries a protruding leg which is perpendicular to said exterior wall and which is in abutment against said peripheral edge.

17. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 16, wherein said protruding leg carries a first sealing lip which is configured to abut against a peripheral edge of said movable window pane.

18. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 17, wherein said first sealing lip has a concave surface which is oriented outwardly and opposite to said at least one division post.

19. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said over-molded material comprises a first portion extending between said exterior wall and said interior surface and a second portion extending between said lateral wall and said interior surface, said first and second portions being connected one to the other, and wherein said second portion is in contact with said at least one protruding lip.

20. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1, wherein said division post is extruded and said at least one protruding lip is coextruded with the division post.

21. The encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 20, wherein at least one sealing lip is further coextruded with the division post.

22. A glass run comprising an encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1 and first and second extruded segments, said first extruded segment being parallel to said division post, said second extruded segment extending between said encapsulated fixed window module and said first extruded segment and having a first end connected by overmolding to an upper end of said division post and a second end connected by overmolding to an upper end of said first extruded segment.

23. A motor vehicle, comprising at least one encapsulated fixed window module as claimed in claim 1.

24. The motor vehicle as claimed in claim 23, which comprises a door including a door frame, a movable window pane, and said encapsulated fixed window module, said movable window pane having an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a peripheral edge extending between said exterior and interior surfaces, wherein said exterior surfaces of said encapsulated fixed window module and of said movable window pane are substantially coplanar or flush.

25. The motor vehicle as claimed in claim 24, wherein both exterior surfaces of said encapsulated fixed window module and of said movable window pane are further substantially coplanar or flush with a portion of a first sealing lip interposed between both said peripheral edge of said encapsulated fixed window module and of said movable window pane.

26. A motor vehicle, comprising at least one glass run as claimed in claim 22.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0097] The invention will be better understood and other details, features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description given by way of non-limiting examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0098] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of adjacent window panes including a fixed window pane carrying a division post, and a movable window pane guided into a groove of the division post;

[0099] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of adjacent and flush window panes including a fixed window pane carrying a division post, and a movable window pane carrying a guiding mean engaged into a groove of the division post;

[0100] FIG. 3 is a fragmentary side view of an encapsulated fixed window module, in its door environment;

[0101] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view along line A1-A1 of FIG. 3;

[0102] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view along line A2-A2 of FIG. 3;

[0103] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view along line C-C of FIG. 3;

[0104] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view along line B-B of FIG. 3;

[0105] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view similar to FIGS. 2 and 7 and showing an encapsulated fixed window module;

[0106] FIG. 9a is an enlarged view of a detail of FIG. 8;

[0107] FIG. 9b is an enlarged view of another detail of FIG. 8;

[0108] FIGS. 10a to 10i are views corresponding to the view of FIG. 8 and showing embodiments of the invention;

[0109] FIGS. 11 to 18 are views corresponding to the view of FIG. 8 and showing further embodiments of the invention;

[0110] FIG. 19 is a fragmentary side view of an encapsulated fixed front window module;

[0111] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view along line B2-B2 of FIG. 19;

[0112] FIG. 21 is a fragmentary side view of an encapsulated fixed rear window module;

[0113] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view along line B3-B3 of FIG. 21;

[0114] FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view along line C-C of FIG. 23.

MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0115] FIGS. 1 and 2 have been already described and illustrate the prior art.

[0116] FIG. 3 shows an example of an encapsulated fixed window module 10 for a motor vehicle in its door environment.

[0117] A motor vehicle door comprises a door frame provided with an encapsulated fixed window module 10 which can be adjacent to a movable window pane 12. In the example of FIG. 1, a rear door of a vehicle is shown in which case the pane 12 is a forward pane and the module 10 is a rearward module. Another configuration would be on a front door, with in that case the movable window pane 12 positioned rearwardly from the module 10.

[0118] The module 10 includes at least a fixed window pane 14 molded on up to four extremities or along four edges. The or each molding forms an encapsulation 16.

[0119] Each pane 12, 14 has an exterior surface 12a, 14a intended to be located outside the motor vehicle, an interior surface 12b, 14b intended to be located inside the motor vehicle, and a peripheral edge 12c, 14c extending between said exterior and interior surfaces (see FIGS. 4 and 6).

[0120] Each pane 12, 14 may be substantially flat. Thus, its surfaces 12a, 14a, 12b, 14b may be substantially flat. Of course, the pane 12, 14 and its surfaces may be slightly curved according to the expected design of the module. As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the peripheral edge 12c, 14c may have a cross sectional convex shape.

[0121] In the example shown, each pane 12, 14 has a polygonal shape and comprises four longitudinal edges. Each peripheral edge 12c, 14c includes therefore a top edge 12ca, 14ca, a front edge 12cb, 14cb, a bottom edge 12cc, 14cc and a rear edge 12cd, 14cd (see FIG. 3). The door may further comprise an appliqu 13, the movable window pane 12 being located between the stationary window pane 14 and the appliqu 13. The exterior surface 12a of the pane 12 is advantageously flush with the exterior surface 14a of the pane 14a and the exterior surface 13a of the appliqu 13.

[0122] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view at the top edge 12ca of the movable window pane. FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view at the top edge 14ca of the fixed window pane. FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view at the rear edge 14cd of the fixed window pane. FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view at the front edge 14cb of the fixed window pane and at the rear edge 12cd of the movable window pane 12.

[0123] These figures show that the encapsulation 16 extends along the edges 14ca, 14cb and 14cd of the pane 14. Glass edge 14ca and the inboard side of the glass next to 14cb are encapsulated. Encapsulation of glass edges 14cd and 14cc is optional.

[0124] Thus, the encapsulation 16 extends along at least two edges of the pane 14 in the example shown but may not necessarily cover these edges as will be detailed below. The encapsulation 16 may comprise segments or profiles or division posts each extending along a portion of the longitudinal edges of the pane 14. Each profile of the division post has a length and a width, its length being greater than its width and extending along said portion of the longitudinal edges of the pane 14.

[0125] FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal profile which is called third profile 18. This third profile 18 extends along said edges 14ca and 12ca. The portion of the profile 18 shown in FIG. 4 is the one extending along the edge 12ca and is not over-molded.

[0126] A substantially vertical profile (not shown) is molded to profile 18 to be part of module 10, in order to guide the moveable glass edge 12cb.

[0127] The third profile 18 shown in FIG. 4 has first and second U-shaped portions 18a, 18b in cross section.

[0128] The first U-shaped portion 18a defines a longitudinal groove 24 that is oriented inwardly and is configured to receive a metallic flange 26 of the motor vehicle. In the example shown, the metallic flange includes two substantially horizontal panels that are superimposed and inserted into the groove 26. The first portion 18a includes an exterior wall 18aa connecting two lateral walls 18ab, 18ac defining the groove 26 therebetween.

[0129] The second U-shaped portion 18b defines a longitudinal groove 28 that is oriented downwardly in a plane parallel to the panes 12, 14 and which is configured to receive by sliding an upper portion of the movable window pane 12. The second portion 18b includes an interior wall 18ba and an exterior wall 18bb connected by a lateral wall which may be integrated in said lateral wall 18ac as shown in the figure. The walls of the second portion 18b define said groove 28.

[0130] Both portions 18a, 18b include sealing lips intended to cooperate with the pane 12 and/or parts of the vehicle.

[0131] The third profile 18 further may include an elongated esthetic component 30 which extends along the profile 18 and is secured onto both portions 18a, 18b. The component 30 includes an esthetic exterior face 30a and an interior face 30b. The component 30 includes a substantially flat portion including the faces 30a, 30b and longitudinal hooks 30c extending inwardly from the inner face 30b. The hooks 30c are used to mechanically secure the component 30 onto the profile 18. The component 30 is intended to cover at least portions of said exterior walls 18aa, 18bb which both comprise grooves intended to receive the hooks 30c by snap fitting.

[0132] FIG. 5 still shows the third profile 18 and in particular its portion extending along the edge 14ca and is over-molded.

[0133] This portion of the profile 18 differs from the portion of FIG. 2 in that it does not comprise the interior wall 18ba and in that it is secured to the fixed window pane 12 by an over-molded material 50.

[0134] This over-molded material 50 extends onto the inner surface of the exterior wall 18bb, the downward surface of the lateral wall 18ac and also over the edge 14ca and portions of the surfaces 14a, 14b of the fixed window pane 14. This over-molded material 50 may have lips or legs intended to abut against parts of the vehicle.

[0135] FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal profile which is called second profile 20. This second profile 20 extends along said edge 14cd and is over-molded.

[0136] The second profile 20 shown in FIG. 6 is U-shaped in cross section and defines a longitudinal groove 32 that is oriented inwardly and is configured to receive a metallic flange 34 of the motor vehicle. In the example shown, the metallic flange 34 includes two substantially vertical panels that are superimposed and inserted into the groove 32.

[0137] The second profile 20 includes an exterior wall 20a and two lateral walls 20b, 20c connected by said exterior wall 20a. The exterior wall 20a is usually parallel to the interior surface 14b of the fixed window pane 14 and is secured thereto by an over-molded material 36. In the example shown, the exterior wall 20a faces the interior surface 14b and spaced therefrom. This space S is filled in with said over-molded material 36.

[0138] The lateral wall 20b is substantially aligned with a portion (the rear edge 14cd in the example shown) of said peripheral edge 14c in a plane P1 that is perpendicular to the fixed window pane 14. The lateral wall 20c extends perpendicularly to and faces the interior surface 14b.

[0139] In the example shown, the over-molded material 36 further extends over the lateral wall 20c and the frond edge 14cd. The lateral wall 20b is free of such over-molded material 36. Said over-molded material 36 is V-shaped (with an angle lower than) 90 in front of the rear edge 14cd and defines a first planar surface 36a aligned with the exterior surface 14a and a second planar surface 36b which extends between the first surface 36a and the profile 20 and is inclined with respect to said plane P1.

[0140] The second profile 20 includes sealing or retention lips intended to cooperate with parts of the vehicle.

[0141] FIG. 7 shows another longitudinal profile which is called first profile 22, also known as division post. This first profile 22 extends substantially vertically along said edges 12cd, 14cb and is over-molded.

[0142] The first profile 22 shown in FIG. 7 is U-shaped in cross section and defines a longitudinal groove 38 that is oriented forwardly and is configured to receive a guiding mean 40 secured to the movable window pane 12.

[0143] The first profile 22 includes an exterior wall 22a and an interior wall 22b connected together by a lateral wall 22c and defining the groove therebetween. The exterior wall 22a is parallel to the interior surface 14b of the fixed window pane 14 and is secured thereto by an over-molded material 42. In the example shown, the exterior wall 22a faces the interior surface 14b and is L-shaped in cross section. The exterior wall 22a includes first and second parts 22aa, 22ab that are perpendicular to one another, said first part 22aa being spaced from the interior surface 14b and extending between said lateral wall 22c and said second part 22ab. Said second part 22ab is applied directly onto said interior surface 14b. Said first part 22ab defines a space S with said interior surface 14b that is filled in with the over-molded material 42.

[0144] The over-molded material 42 further extends over at least a portion of said lateral wall 22c. The over-molded material 42 does not cover the peripheral edge 14cb along said first profile 22, i.e., the front edge 14cb, in the example shown.

[0145] The exterior wall 22a has a longitudinal edge 22a1 which is opposite to the lateral wall 22c that is substantially aligned with said front edge 14cb in a plane P2 that is perpendicular to the fixed window pane 14.

[0146] This longitudinal edge 22a1 carries a first sealing lip 44 which is configured to abut against both edges 14cb and 12cd. The sealing lip 44 is the sole member extending between said edges 14cb and 12cd. The sealing lip 44 is curved (concave or convex) and defines a groove oriented inwardly. The lip 44 includes a longitudinal connecting edge 44a which extends in the plane P2 and is secured to the longitudinal edge 22a1, and further includes an opposite longitudinal sealing edge 44b abutting against the rear edge 12cd of the pane 12. The longitudinal portion of the sealing lip 44 extending between both edges 44a, 44b has an exterior surface 44c which is substantially aligned with said exterior surfaces 14a, 12a.

[0147] As far as the interior wall 22b of the first profile 22 is concerned, it crosses said plane P2 and is configured to face said guiding mean 40, and preferably also to face the interior surface 12b of the movable window pane 12 as shown in the figure.

[0148] The interior wall 22b carries a second sealing lip 46 which is configured to be in sealing contact with the guiding mean 40. In another example, only the first and the third sealing lips may be provided (no sealing is then provided on the guiding mean 40).

[0149] The guiding mean 40 may be formed of a single longitudinal part that is secured, for instance by gluing or over-molding, onto the interior surface 12b of the pane 12 and includes a guiding leg 40a crossing the plane P2 and received into the groove 38 for sliding motion. As shown in the drawings, the surfaces of the groove 38 may be coated with an antifriction layer suitable to cooperate by sliding with the guiding mean 40 and in particular its leg 40a. Therefore, as shown in the drawings, the walls 22a, 22b, 22c may be coated with the antifriction layer inside the groove 38.

[0150] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, each profile 18, 20, 22 may comprise at least one U-shaped metallic rail embedded or encapsulated into a polymeric covering. The rail includes an interior branch and an exterior branch, connected together by a lateral branch. Each profile and its polymeric covering may be made by co-extrusion. The sealing lips may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as for example EPDM or thermoplastic. These lips may be obtained by over-molding during a process where the profiles 18, 20, 22 are connected together in their interconnection zones. Of course, each profile might not comprise metallic rail and might therefore comprise only polymeric materials. Each profile may have polypropylene in areas where material rigidity is needed and the lips might be made of a softer material. The profiles are secured onto the fixed window pane 14 by over-molding by means of the over-molded material 36, 42 and 50. Stationary glass edge 14cc is usually encapsulated as well.

[0151] FIG. 8 is a view similar to the view of FIGS. 2 and 7.

[0152] The reference numerals used in relation to FIGS. 3 to 7 are used for designating the same elements in FIG. 8.

[0153] The window panes 12 and 14 are similar to the ones disclosed above. The guiding mean 40 is also similar.

[0154] The (first) profile 122 or division post of FIG. 8 extends along the edges 12cd, 14cb and is over-molded.

[0155] The profile 122 shown in FIG. 7 is U-shaped in cross section and defines a longitudinal groove 38 that is oriented forwardly and is configured to receive the guiding mean 40 secured to the movable window pane 12.

[0156] The profile 122 includes an exterior wall 22a and an interior wall 22b connected together by a lateral wall 22c and defining the groove 38 therebetween. The exterior wall 22a is parallel to the interior surface 14b of the fixed window pane 14 and is secured thereto by an over-molded material 142.

[0157] As shown in the drawings, the surfaces of the groove 38 may be coated with an antifriction layer F1 suitable to cooperate by sliding with the guiding mean 40 and in particular its leg 40a. Therefore, as shown in the drawings, the walls 22a, 22b, 22c may be coated with the antifriction layer F1 inside the groove 38.

[0158] The exterior wall 22a has a surface 22a1 that faces the interior surface 14b and is L-shaped in cross section. The exterior wall 22a includes first and second parts 22aa, 22ab that are perpendicular one another, said first part 22aa being spaced from the interior surface 14b and extending between said lateral wall 22c and said second part 22ab. Said second part 22ab is applied directly onto said interior surface 14b in the vicinity of the edge 14c, 14cb.

[0159] Said second part 22ab carries a protruding leg 160 which extends externally in a direction substantially perpendicular to the exterior wall 22a. The protruding leg 160 is interposed in the gap between both peripheral edges 12cb, 14cb, and is in abutment against the peripheral edge 14cb. The protruding leg 160 carries a first sealing lip 44 which is configured to abut against the edge 12cb. The first sealing lip 44 has an exterior surface 44c which is substantially aligned with the exterior surfaces 14a, 12a.

[0160] The protruding leg 160 is made of the same material as the main material (or polymeric covering) of the profile 122. The first sealing lip 44 is preferably made of a softer material.

[0161] The exterior wall 22a, and in particular its first part 22aa, defines a space S with the interior surface 14b that is filled in with the over-molded material 142 and in particular with a first portion 142a of this over-molded material 142.

[0162] The over-molded material 142 further extends over at least a portion of said lateral wall 22c and comprises a second portion 142b extending between the lateral wall 22c and the interior surface 14b. The over-molded material 142 does not cover the peripheral edge 14cb in the example shown.

[0163] As far as the interior wall 22b of the first profile 22 is concerned, it is longer than the exterior wall 22a and is configured to face said guiding mean 40, and preferably also to face the interior surface 12b of the movable window pane 12 as shown in the figure.

[0164] The interior wall 22b carries a second sealing lip 46 which is configured to be in sealing contact with the guiding mean 40, and a third sealing lip 48 which is configured to be in sealing contact with the interior surface 12b of the movable window pane 12.

[0165] Sealing lips 44, 46 and 48 may be coated with antifriction layers F1.

[0166] In another example, only the first and the third sealing lips may be provided (no sealing is then provided on the guiding mean 40).

[0167] The profile 122 may comprise at least one U-shaped metallic rail embedded or encapsulated into a polymeric covering. This rail may include a first branch extending into the exterior wall 22b, a second branch extending into the interior wall 22a, and a connecting branch extending into the lateral wall 22c.

[0168] The profile 122 and its polymeric covering may be made by co-extrusion. The sealing lips may be made of an elastically deformable material, such as for example EPDM or thermoplastic. These lips may be realized by over-molding or co-extrusion. Of course, the profile 122 might not comprise metallic rail and might therefore comprise only a polymeric material. The polymeric or covering material of the profile 122 may be a thermoplastic or an elastomer thermoplastic, such as for instance polypropylene. The over-molded material is for instance made of thermoplastic, elastomer thermoplastic, EPDM, SEBS, etc.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 8, the first portion 142a of the over-molded material 142 has a first thickness E1 which is constant along a major portion of this first portion. The thickness E1 of this first portion 142A is measured in a direction which is perpendicular to the interior surface 14B of the fixed window pane 14 and which is also perpendicular to the exterior wall 22a.

[0170] The second portion 142b of the over-molded material 142 has a second thickness E2 which is constant along a major portion of the second portion. The thickness E2 of this second portion 142b is measured in a direction which is perpendicular to the lateral wall 22c.

[0171] This second portion 142b has an outer face 142b1 which extends between the lateral wall 22c and the interior surface 14b and which includes a major portion which is inclined with respect to the interior surface 14b.

[0172] In the shown example, the over-molded material 142 is V-shaped and includes both portions 142a, 142b connected therebetween and forming together a tip 142c. The over-molded material 142 includes a protruding rib 166 on its tip 142c, this protruding rib 166 extending on the interior surface 14b (FIG. 9a).

[0173] In the example shown, the shape of the over-molded material is provided by the shape of the profile 122 which includes a tooth 168 or a fin (such as a shark fin) on its lateral wall 22c.

[0174] The tooth 168 includes a first surface 168a parallel to the interior surface 14b and aligned with the surface 22a1 of the exterior wall 22a, and a second surface 168b which is inclined with respect to the interior surface 14b. The function of tooth 168 is to create a constant offset between the second surface 168b and the outer face 142b1. The shape and location of the surface 168b will thus evolve according to the shape and location of the outer face 142b1. The thickness E2 of the second portion 142b may be measured in a direction which is perpendicular to this second surface 168b.

[0175] The tooth 168 is preferably fully embedded into the over-molded material so that the first portion 142a extends between the first surface 168a and the interior surface 14b and the second portion 142b extends between the second surface 168b and the interior surface 14b. The first surface 168a is planar and the second surface 168b is also planar in the example shown. This second surface 168b is preferably parallel to the outer face 142b1 to ensure that E2 is constant. The first and second surfaces 168a, 168b are therefore V-shaped in cross section in the example shown. The first and second surfaces 168a, 168b form an angle or form a tip having an angle which is comprised between 2 and 85, and preferably between 5 and 70. In other words, the tooth 168 defines an angle comprised between 2 and 85, and preferably between 5 and 70.

[0176] The invention relates to an encapsulated fixed window module which is similar to the encapsulated window module described above in relation with FIGS. 3 to 9b. The above description made in reference to those figures applies therefore to the claimed invention and the description of following figures.

[0177] According to the invention, the over-molded material 142 is in contact with at least one protruding lip 162 (only described later on FIG. 10a) which is located between said exterior wall 22a and said interior surface 14b. Said at least one protruding lip 162 is elastically deformable from a first unconstrained position to a second constrained position in which said at least one protruding lip 162 is elastically deformed. Said at least one protruding lip 162 is compressed between said exterior wall 22a and said interior surface 14b so as to adopt said second position.

[0178] FIGS. 10a to 10g show embodiments of the invention.

[0179] The embodiment of FIG. 10a differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the second part 22ab of the exterior wall 22a is replaced by one protruding lip 162 which extends externally and which is in abutment against the interior surface 14b of the window pane 14.

[0180] In the enlarged detailed view of FIG. 10a, the protruding lip 162 is shown in its first position in continuous line and in its second position in dashed line. The protruding lip 162 is shown in its first position in all the figures showing the invention.

[0181] The exterior wall 22a is located at a first distance D3 from the interior surface 14b, said first distance being measured in a direction which is perpendicular to said interior surface 14b. The protruding lip 162 has a first height H1 in said first position and a second height H2 in second position, said first and second heights being measured in a direction which is perpendicular to said interior surface. The second height H2 is equal to the first distance D3, and the first height H1 is greater than the second height H2 and the first distance D3.

[0182] The protruding lip 162 and the protruding leg 160 may be made of the same material as the main material of the profile 122. The first sealing lip 44 is made of a softer material.

[0183] The over-molded material 142 does not cover the peripheral edge 14cb. This is due to the presence of the protruding lip 162 which abuts against the pane 14 and avoid over-molded material 142 passing through the lip 162 and up to the edge 14cb.

[0184] As shown in the drawings, the protruding lip 162 and leg 160 may define together and with the pane 14 a space S that is empty, i.e., that is not filled with over-molded material 142.

[0185] The embodiment of FIG. 10b differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the tooth 168 defines a larger angle of about 70-85. The V-shape of the over-molded material 142 has a similar angle.

[0186] The embodiment of FIG. 10c differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the tooth 168 defines a small angle of about 20-40. The V-shape of the over-molded material 142 has a similar angle.

[0187] The embodiment of FIG. 10d differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the second surface 168b of the tooth 168 is curved and in particular is concave. The second portion 142b of the over-molded material 142 conforms to the shape of this second surface 168b and has a curved shape. Similarly, the outer face 142b1 of the over-molded material 142 is curved and concave to get a thickness E2 as constant as possible.

[0188] The embodiment of FIG. 10e differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the second surface 168b of the tooth 168 is curved an in particular convex. The second portion 142b of the over-molded material 142 conforms to the shape of this second surface 168b and has a curved shape. Similarly, the outer face 142b1 of the over-molded material 142 is curved and convex to get a thickness E2 as constant as possible.

[0189] The embodiment of FIG. 10f differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that the metallic rail embedded or encapsulated into the polymeric covering includes a leg 170 at its edge opposite the connecting branch. This leg 170 extends outwardly and is interposed between the edges 12cd and 14cb.

[0190] The embodiment of FIG. 10g differs from the embodiment of FIG. 8 in that over-molded material 142 comprises a third portion 142c, the first portion 142a extending between the third and second portions 142c, 142b.

[0191] The third portion 142c extends on the peripheral edge 14cb of the fixed pane 14. The third portion 142c is perpendicular to the first portion 142a and extends outwardly from the end of the first portion 142a which is opposite to the second portion 142b. The third portion 142c covers entirely the peripheral edge 14cb in the example shown.

[0192] Therefore, the profile 122 is not directly in contact with the pane 14. Its exterior wall 22b is remote from the interior surface 14b and is separated therefrom by the over-molded material 142.

[0193] The first sealing lip 44 of the profile 122 is configured to abut against edge 12cd. The third portion 142c and the sealing lip 44 are both located between the edges 14cb and 12cd.

[0194] As shown, the third portion 142c may include an end which is coplanar with said exterior surfaces of said panes 12, 14.

[0195] The embodiment of FIGS. 10g and 10h show that there is a risk of bleed of the over-molded material up to the peripheral edge 14cb of the window pane 1 when no protruding lip according to the invention is located between the division post 122 and the window pane 14.

[0196] The embodiment of FIG. 10g further differs in that the antifriction layer on the exterior surface of the interior wall 22a of the profile 122 is replaced by a co-extruded thermoplastic material and/or a cellular or foam material F2. This material is used to prevent rattle noise/tapping noise during door slam. The material F2 has for instance a shore A hardness of about 25-60 and/or a coefficient of friction less than about 0.6. All the embodiments described above may have such material in the groove 38 instead of one of the antifriction layers F1.

[0197] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 10h, the third portion 142c of FIG. 10g may be combined with the leg 160 of any of the preceding embodiments (FIG. 8 to FIG. 10g) and may therefore be interposed between the peripheral edge 14cb of the pane 14 and this leg 160.

[0198] In another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 10i, the tooth 168 is made of a material which is different from the main (co-extruded or covering) material of the profile 122. For instance, the main material of the profile 122 is harder than the material of the tooth 168. The main material is for instance a PP. The material of the tooth 168 may have a Shore A hardness of between 70-95, and for instance of about 85. The material of the tooth 168 is for instance a TPE.

[0199] The protruding leg 160 and the protruding lip 162 may also be made of a material which is different from the main material of the profile 122. The materials of the leg 160, of the lip 162 and of the tooth 168 may be the same.

[0200] Even if the tooth 168 and/or the protruding leg 160 and/or the protruding lip 162 may be made of different material, they are preferably made by co-extrusion with the profile 122. Use of a softer material for the protruding leg 160 for instance enhances the molding operation.

[0201] The second portion 142b extends on the tooth 168 and has an end linked to the profile 122. This portion 142b has a constant thickness E2 up to this end.

[0202] In the embodiment of FIG. 10i, both branches of the metallic rail of the profile 122 are straight while in the embodiments of FIGS. 10a-10h the exterior branch of the metallic rail is slightly inclined and has an end opposite its lateral branch which protrudes inwardly.

[0203] FIGS. 11 to 18 show further embodiments of the invention.

[0204] The embodiment of FIG. 11 differs from the one of FIG. 10d mainly in that the protruding lip 162 and the protruding leg 160 are made of a first material which is different from a second material of the division post 22b, both first and second materials being co-extruded before securing the division post to the window pane by over-molding.

[0205] There are three protruding lips 162 between the exterior wall 22a and the interior surface 14b in the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0206] In all the figures showing the invention, the protruding lip(s) may be considered as comprising a securing base 162a and at least one flexible lip 162b extending from said securing base 162a.

[0207] In the embodiments of FIG. 11 and the former embodiments showing the invention, the protruding lip 162 includes a single securing base 162a and a single flexible lip 162b. In the embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 14, the protruding lip 162 includes a single securing base 162a and three flexible lips 162b.

[0208] The securing base 162a is secured to the division post 22 and in particular to its exterior wall 22b (an more specifically the exterior face of the exterior wall facing the interior face 14b). The flexible lip(s) 162b extends outwardly from the securing base 162a. The flexible lips 162b are adjacent one another. The space between two adjacent lips 162b may be empty or filled with over-molded material. The flexible lips 162b may be identical or different from one another. Each of said adjacent protruding lips are elastically-deformable;

[0209] In the embodiments of FIGS. 11 and 12 and the former embodiments showing the invention, the protruding lip 162 has a cross sectional curved shape and comprises a concave side 162c which is oriented towards the lateral wall 22c and an opposite convex side 162d. The empty space S may be defined between said opposite convex side 162d and said interior surface 14b, closed to the peripheral edge 14cb.

[0210] In the embodiments of FIG. 13, the protruding lip 162 has a cross sectional straight shape and extends perpendicularly to the interior surface 14b.

[0211] In the former embodiments showing the invention, the protruding lip 16 is located at a first end of the exterior wall 22a which is opposite to the lateral wall 22c. To the contrary, in the embodiment of FIG. 14, the protruding lip 162 is located at the opposite second end of the exterior wall 22a.

[0212] In this embodiment of FIG. 14, the protruding lip 162 can be made of the same and main material of the division post 22. In the example shown, the main material of the division post 22 is PP and the protruding lip 162 is made of a more flexible material such as an elastomer.

[0213] The distance D3 between the exterior wall 22a and the interior surface 14b is here null. Height H1 is greater than H2 which is close to zero in this embodiment.

[0214] In the former embodiments showing the invention, the protruding lip 16 is carried by said exterior wall 22a.

[0215] In the embodiments of FIGS. 15 to 18, the protruding lip(s) is/are carried by said fixed window pane 14 and in particular connected to the interior surface 14b.

[0216] As described above, the protruding lip(s) 162 may be considered as comprising a securing base 162a and at least one flexible lip 162b extending from said securing base 162a.

[0217] In the embodiments of FIG. 15, the protruding lip 162 over-molded on the fixed glass 14, includes a single securing base 162a and a single flexible lip 162b. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the protruding lip 162 includes a single securing base 162a and three flexible lips 162b.

[0218] The securing base 162a is secured to the interior surface 14b and the flexible lip(s) 162b extend inwardly from the securing base 162a. The flexible lips 162b are adjacent one another. The space between two adjacent lips 162b may be empty or filled with over-molded material. The flexible lips 162b may be identical or different from one another. Each of said adjacent protruding lips are elastically-deformable.

[0219] The protruding lips 162 of FIGS. 15-18 have a cross sectional curved shape and comprises a concave side 162c which is oriented towards the lateral wall 22c and an opposite convex side 162d. The empty space S may be defined between said opposite convex side 162d and said exterior wall 22a, closed to the peripheral edge 14cb.

[0220] As shown, the convex side 162d may be aligned and flush with a convex surface of said peripheral edge 14cb. In variant, said convex side is remote from said convex surface of said peripheral edge.

[0221] In the embodiments of FIGS. 11 to 13 and in the other embodiments showing the invention, the protruding lip(s) is/are integral with the protruding leg 160. The protruding leg 160 is perpendicular to the exterior wall 22a and is in abutment against the peripheral edge 14cb.

[0222] In the embodiments of FIGS. 14 to 18, the protruding lip(s) is/are independent from the protruding leg 160. The protruding leg 160 is also perpendicular to the exterior wall 22a and is in abutment against the peripheral edge 14cb.

[0223] In all these embodiments, the protruding leg 160 carries a sealing lip 44 which is configured to abut against the peripheral edge 12c of the movable window pane 12. This first sealing lip 44 has a concave surface 44d which is oriented outwardly and opposite to the division post 22.

[0224] The embodiment of FIG. 17 differs from the one of FIG. 16 in that it does not include the tooth 168.

[0225] The embodiment of FIG. 18 differs from the one of FIG. 16 in that it does not include a metallic rail in the division post which is only made of polymeric material.

[0226] FIGS. 19 and 21 show two examples of glass run 200 for a motor vehicle. The glass run 200 includes an encapsulated fixed window module 10 according to the invention and further comprises first and second extruded segments 202, 204.

[0227] The first extruded segment 202 is parallel to the division post 22. The second extruded segment 204 extends between the encapsulated fixed window module 10 and the first extruded segment 202 and has a first end 204a connected by overmolding to an upper end of the division post 202 and a second end connected by overmolding to an upper end of said first extruded segment 202. The second extruded segment 204 is similar to the third profile 18 as described above.

[0228] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view along line B2-B2 of FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view along line B3-B3 of FIG. 21. A cross sectional view along line A1-A1 of FIGS. 19 and 21 would be similar to the view of FIG. 4.

[0229] FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view along line C-C of FIG. 21 and shows that the second profile 20 of FIG. 6 is optional. It could be eliminated and replaced by a few (two to four for instance) retention clips 150.

[0230] In all the embodiments, the esthetic appearance of the window module may be enhanced by lying flush the outside surfaces 12a, 14a of the fixed and movable window panes 12, 14. The exterior surfaces 12a, 14a of the panes 12, 14 may be therefore substantially coplanar. These surfaces 12a, 14a mays also be flush with the exterior surface 44c (cf. FIGS. 8 to 10f), and/or with the end of the leg 160 (FIGS. 8 to 10f), and/or with the end of the third portion 142c of the over-molding material 142 (FIGS. 10g and 10h).