shroud

Abstract

The shield of the present application is a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction (X) and capable of expansion and contraction in the axial direction (X), and has: a corrugated portion (2) having corrugated portion side peak portions (21) and corrugated portion side valley portions (22) alternately in the axial direction (X); and an extension portion (3) connected to the corrugated portion (2) adjacent in the axial direction (X), provided adjacent to one end (1a) and / or the other end (1b) of the shield (1) in the axial direction (X), the extension portion (3) being formed such that the outer diameter (OD1) of the end portion of the extension portion (3) on the side opposite to the side connected to the corrugated portion (2) in the axial direction (X) is smaller than the inner diameter (ID) of the corrugated portion side valley portion (22) of the corrugated portion (2), and the extension portion (3) is structured such that at least a part of the extension portion (3) is displaced to the inside of the corrugated portion (2) when the shield (1) is compressed in the axial direction (X). With this structure, a shield that is short in length when compressed and that suppresses an increase in the restoring force generated by compression can be provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to protective covers. Background Technology

[0002] When the retractable component moves forward or backward relative to the target component, a corrugated cover that can extend and retract in the forward or backward direction is used at the connection between the retractable component and the target component to protect both from water and dust. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a cover (referred to as a seal in Patent Document 1) for an opening and closing device of a fuel cap for an automobile. The cover of Patent Document 1 is mounted on a push rod (retractable component), which is fixed to a baffle that serves as a fuel cap. It is used to protect the push rod handle and the opening of the housing into which the push rod handle is inserted when the push rod moves forward or backward relative to the housing (target component) provided on the automobile body. One end of the cover is mounted on the push rod head of the push rod in such a way that the push rod handle is housed inside the cover, and the other end of the cover is a free end. When the baffle is in the closed state, the other end of the cover abuts against the housing, forming a closed space for protecting the opening of the push rod handle and the housing. Furthermore, as the push rod shank is inserted further into the housing, the guard is compressed in the forward and backward directions to maintain a closed space.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 084599 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In Patent Document 1, when the baffle is opened, the baffle separates from the housing, and the other end of the cover is no longer in contact with the housing, thus the other end of the cover is open. In order to protect the push rod handle as much as possible even in this state, the cover is preferably longer than the push rod handle housed inside.

[0008] When the baffle is in the closed position, the front end of the push rod handle is inserted into the housing, and the shroud is compressed between the baffle and the housing. In situations where the space for the shroud is limited, such as when configuring the fuel cap opening and closing device, it is desirable to shorten the length of the compressed shroud.

[0009] Furthermore, when the baffle is in the closed state, due to the reaction force of the compressed shield, a restoring force acts on the baffle in the opening direction, which may cause the baffle to lift off the vehicle body. Therefore, the shield preferably suppresses the increase in restoring force caused by compression.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a protective cover that has a shorter length when compressed, which can suppress the increase of restoring force caused by compression.

[0011] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0012] The protective cover of the present invention is a cylindrical protective cover that extends along an axial direction and is telescopic in the axial direction, wherein the protective cover includes: a pleated portion having alternating pleated side peaks and pleated side valleys along the axial direction; and an extension portion connected adjacent to the pleated portion in the axial direction and disposed adjacent to one end and / or the other end of the protective cover in the axial direction, the extension portion being formed such that the outer diameter of the end of the extension portion on the opposite side of the side connected to the pleated portion in the axial direction is smaller than the inner diameter of the pleated side valley of the pleated portion, the extension portion being configured such that when the protective cover is compressed in the axial direction, at least a portion of the extension portion is displaced into the interior of the pleated portion.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, a shield with a short shield length during compression and which suppresses the increase of restoring force caused by compression can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cover opening and closing device with a cover according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a protective cover according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3A Is Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the cover opening and closing device with the cover in the open position.

[0018] Figure 3B It is covered from Figure 3A A partial sectional view of the cover opening and closing device in a state close to that of the vehicle body.

[0019] Figure 3C It is covered from Figure 3B A partial cross-sectional view of the cover opening and closing device in a closed position, closer to the vehicle body.

[0020] Figure 3D It is covered from Figure 3C A partial sectional view of the cover opening and closing device in a forward position, as it approaches the vehicle body further.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a diagram that schematically illustrates the relationship between the shield length and the shield's resilience.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a side view of the protective cover with a high rigidity section.

[0023] Figure 6A yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along the VIA-VIA line.

[0024] Figure 6B It is along Figure 5 Axial cross-sectional view of the protective cover.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional view of the protective cover in a modified example.

[0026] Figure 8 It is installed Figure 7 A partial sectional view of the cover opening and closing device with the cover in the closed position.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of another variation of the protective cover. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Hereinafter, a protective cover according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiment shown below is merely an example, and the protective cover of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. Furthermore, in this specification, "perpendicular to A" and similar expressions do not only refer to a direction that is completely perpendicular to A, but also include the case where it is substantially perpendicular to A. Additionally, in this specification, "parallel to B" and similar expressions do not only refer to a direction that is completely parallel to B, but also include the case where it is substantially parallel to B. Furthermore, in this specification, "C-shape" and similar expressions do not only refer to a complete C-shape, but also include the case where the shape is reminiscent of a C-shape (approximately C-shaped).

[0029] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the protective cover 1 in this embodiment is a cylindrical cover that extends from one end 1a to the other end 1b along the X-axis, which forms the central axis of the protective cover 1, and is capable of stretching and contracting along the X-axis. The protective cover 1 is configured to be in an elongated state that can stretch in the X-axis direction. Figure 1 The state of the double-dotted line and the state of compression in the X-axis direction ( Figure 1The shield 1 transitions between its extended and compressed states. In both its extended and compressed states, the shield 1 protects the radially inner interior space of the shield 1 and any other spaces communicating with it (e.g., the interior space of a different cylindrical component connected to a different cylindrical component) from the influence of the external environment (e.g., preventing the intrusion of water, dust, etc.). The shield 1 is installed on the mounting object, for example, protecting the interior space and any designated parts of the mounting object disposed in other spaces from the influence of the external environment. The shield 1 is not particularly limited as long as it can protect a specific part of the mounted object, and can be applied to any mounting object requiring protection.

[0030] Shield 1, for example, Figure 1 As shown, it is applied to an object M, which has a base B and is capable of being in a remote position relative to the base B. Figure 1 The position of the double-dotted line) and the position of the proximal position ( Figure 1 The movable part L moves between the position of the solid line in the middle. The cover 1 is mounted on the mounting object M in the following manner: one end 1a of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction is mounted on the movable part L, and the other end 1b of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction constitutes a free end that is released when the movable part L is in the far position. The cover 1 is configured such that when the movable part L approaches the base B from the far position toward the proximal position, the other end 1b of the cover 1 abuts against the base B. The cover 1 covers the opening B1 provided in the base B by the other end 1b of the cover 1 abutting against the base B. The cover 1 is in an extended state of its natural length when it approaches the base B by the movable part L until it abuts against the base B. The cover 1 is in a compressed state in the X-axis direction by moving further toward the proximal position by the movable part L, thereby transferring to a compressed state between the movable part L and the base B. Figure 1 (The state of the solid line). When the cover 1 is in contact with the base B, during the transition between the extended state and the compressed state, it covers the opening B1 of the base B, protecting the opening B1 from external environmental influences (e.g., inhibiting the intrusion of water, dust, etc.). If the movable part L moves in the opposite direction from the proximal position to the distal position, the cover 1 returns to the extended state by its own restoring force. However, the cover 1 can also be installed on the mounting object M in such a way that the other end 1b of the cover 1 is installed on the base B and extends or retracts by relative movement between the movable part L and the base B.

[0031] As for the installation object M, there are no special restrictions, for example... Figure 1 The shown vehicle has a cover opening / closing device M for the cover L used for refueling or power supply. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the cover opening and closing device M, which is to be installed, includes: a part of the vehicle body (hereinafter referred to as vehicle body B) as the base; and a cover L as a movable part, which opens and closes the fuel supply or power supply space (in the fuel supply or power supply space provided on the vehicle body or adjacent to the power supply port) Figure 1 The space between the cover L (represented by a solid line) and the vehicle body B can be opened and closed. The cover L is configured to be able to open in a remote position (remote position) to access the fuel replenishment or power supply space. Figure 1 The position marked by the double-dotted line) and the closed position (near position) of the space for closing fuel supply or power supply. Figure 1 The cover L is also configured to move between the position of the solid line in the middle. It can be further moved towards the vehicle body B from the closed position to a forward position (at the position of the solid line in the middle). Figure 1 In the middle, move further down from the position of the solid line.

[0032] The cover opening and closing device M also includes: a locking component (not shown) for locking / unlocking the cover L relative to the vehicle body B; a locking component drive unit (not shown) for moving the locking component to the locked and unlocked positions; and an operating unit OP (see reference). Figure 1 (This is) operated to drive the locking component's drive unit. For example... Figure 1 As shown, a cover mounting member L1 is provided on the cover L, with one end 1a in the X-axis direction for mounting the cover 1. The cover mounting member L1 has a mounted portion L11 for mounting the cover 1 at one end 1a and a pressing portion L12 for pressing the operating portion OP to operate the operating portion OP. When the cover L is in the closed position, it is further pressed toward the vehicle body B and moves to the forward position, thereby pressing the operating portion OP (in) via the pressing portion L12. Figure 1 (Press downwards). By pressing the operating unit OP, the operating unit OP is operated, thereby driving the locking member drive unit, which includes a motor, etc. The locking member, operated by driving the locking member drive unit, moves between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locked position is a position in which the cover L is engaged and locked in the closed position, and the unlocked position is a position in which the engagement with the cover L is released and the cover L can be moved to the open position.

[0033] In the cover opening and closing device M, as the cover L moves, the cover 1 mounted on the cover L also moves. Midway through the movement of the cover L from the open position to the closed position, the other end 1b of the cover 1 abuts against the vehicle body B, covering the opening B1 of the vehicle body B. When the cover L is between the position where the other end 1b of the cover 1 abuts against the vehicle body B and the closed position (and forward position), the cover 1 covers the opening B1 of the vehicle body B in a compressed state compressed in the X-axis direction, preventing water, dust, etc., from seeping into the locking member drive unit and other components provided inside the vehicle body B through the opening B1. The cover 1 separates from the vehicle body B by moving the cover L in the opposite direction from the closed position (and forward position) to the open position, and returns to its extended state by its own restoring force. Furthermore, the base B against which the cover 1 abuts can also be a housing mounted on the vehicle body and housing the locking member, the locking member drive unit, and the operating unit OP.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, the protective cover 1 includes: a pleated portion 2, which alternately has pleated side peaks 21 and pleated side valleys 22 along the X-axis; and an extension portion 3, which is connected adjacent to the pleated portion 2 in the X-axis direction and is disposed adjacent to the other end 1b of the protective cover 1 in the X-axis direction. The protective cover 1 is configured to be able to extend and retract in the X-axis direction by extending and retracting the pleated portion 2 and the extension portion 3. In this embodiment, in the protective cover 1, a mounting portion MP is provided at one end 1a of the protective cover 1 for mounting the movable portion L of the mounting object M, and an abutting portion AP is provided at the other end 1b of the protective cover 1 for abutting the base B of the mounting object M.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the mounting part MP is installed on the mounted portion L11 of the cover mounting member L1, which is a movable part of the cover L, when the cover 1 is installed on the cover opening and closing device M, which is the object to be installed. The mounting part MP is configured to fit into the mounted portion L11 of the cover mounting member L1, and is mounted on the mounted portion L11. Figure 2 As shown, the mounting part MP is provided at one end 1a of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction and is connected to the pleated part 2 in the X-axis direction. The mounting part MP is formed in a ring shape, and an opening is formed at one end 1a of the cover 1 that communicates with the internal space of the radially inner side of the cover 1. By fitting the mounting part MP with the mounted part L11 of the cover mounting member L1, the opening at one end 1a of the cover 1 is closed from the external environment. The mounting part MP is not particularly limited as long as it is formed so that even if the cover 1 is stretched or retracted while in the state of fitting with the mounted part L11 of the cover mounting member L1, it can be made of elastically deformable rubber or synthetic resin, etc. However, one end 2a of the pleated part 2 can also form one end 1a of the cover 1 and be mounted on the mounted part L11 of the cover mounting member L1.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the contact part AP is the part that abuts against the vehicle body B, which is the base, when the cover 1 is installed on the cover opening and closing device M, which is the object of installation. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the abutment portion AP is provided at the other end 1b of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction and is connected to the extension portion 3 in the X-axis direction. The abutment portion AP is formed in annular shape, and an opening is formed at the other end 1b of the cover 1 that communicates with the internal space of the radially inner side of the cover 1. The abutment portion AP abuts against the vehicle body B, thereby closing the opening at the other end 1b of the cover 1 from the external environment. The abutment portion AP is not particularly limited as long as it is formed to abut against the vehicle body B and can prevent the abutment state with the vehicle body B from being released even if the cover 1 is extended or retracted. It can be formed of elastically deformable rubber, synthetic resin, etc. However, the other end 3b of the extension portion 3 may also be configured to form the other end 1b of the cover 1 and abut against the vehicle body B.

[0037] like Figure 2 As shown, the pleated portion 2 is formed as a hollow cylindrical shape extending along the X-axis between one end 2a and the other end 2b, and is configured to be able to extend and retract along the X-axis. One end 2a of the pleated portion 2 is directly or indirectly (directly in this embodiment) connected to the mounting portion MP, and the other end 2b of the pleated portion 2 is directly or indirectly (directly in this embodiment) connected to one end 3a of the extension portion 3. In this embodiment, the pleated portion 2 is integrally formed with the mounting portion MP and the extension portion 3, but it can also be formed separately from the mounting portion MP and the extension portion 3. When the cover 1 is installed on the cover opening and closing device M, which is the object to be installed, the pleated portion 2 is compressed as the cover 1 is compressed between the cover L and the vehicle body B, and extends as the cover 1 extends as the cover L separates from the vehicle body B. In this embodiment, the pleated portion 2 is formed as a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section perpendicular to the X-axis, but it can also be formed as a cylindrical shape with a quadrilateral or other cross-sections. Furthermore, the pleated portion 2 is not particularly limited as long as it can stretch and contract along the X-axis, and can be formed from elastically deformable materials such as rubber or synthetic resin.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the pleated portion 2 has a pleated shape, in which annular pleated portion side peaks 21 protruding radially outward and annular pleated portion side valleys 22 recessed radially inward are alternately formed along the X-axis of the cover 1. The pleated portion side peaks 21 and pleated portion side valleys 22 are alternately and continuously arranged in the X-axis direction, thereby forming the wall of the pleated portion 2. In the pleated portion 2, the wall formed by the pleated portion side peaks 21 and pleated portion side valleys 22 prevents water, dust, etc. from intruding into the internal space formed radially inward. When the cover 1 is installed on a cover opening and closing device M, which is the object of installation, as Figure 1 As shown, when the cover 1 is installed on the cover mounting member L1 of the cover L, the pressing part L12 of the cover mounting member L1 is disposed in the internal space radially inward of the pleated part 2. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each pleated part 2 has two pleated side peaks 21 and two pleated side valleys 22. However, as long as at least one pleated side peak 21 and at least one pleated side valley 22 are provided in a way that allows for extension and retraction in the X-axis direction, the number of each is not particularly limited, and more than three pleated side peaks 21 and more than three pleated side valleys 22 may also be provided. Additionally, the pleated part 2 only needs to have at least one pleated side peak 21 and at least one pleated side valley 22, and may also have a connecting part or other structures other than the pleated side peaks 21 and pleated side valleys 22.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, the extension portion 3 is formed as a hollow cylindrical section extending along the X-axis between one end 3a and the other end 3b, and is configured to be able to extend and retract in the X-axis direction. One end 3a of the extension portion 3 is directly or indirectly (directly in this embodiment) connected to the other end 2b of the pleated portion 2, and the other end 3b of the extension portion 3 is directly or indirectly (directly in this embodiment) connected to the abutment portion AP. In this embodiment, the extension portion 3 is integrally formed with the pleated portion 2 and the abutment portion AP, but it can also be formed separately from the pleated portion 2 and the abutment portion AP. In addition, in this embodiment, the extension portion 3 is connected to the other end 2b of the pleated portion 2 and is disposed adjacent to the other end 1b of the protective cover 1, but it can also be connected to one end 2a of the pleated portion 2 and disposed adjacent to one end 1a of the protective cover 1, or it can be connected to one end 2a and the other end 2b of the pleated portion 2 on both sides in the X-axis direction, separated by the pleated portion 2, and disposed adjacent to one end 1a and the other end 1b of the protective cover 1. When the cover 1 is installed on the cover opening and closing device M, which is the object of installation, the extension part 3 is compressed as the cover 1 is compressed between the cover L and the vehicle body B, and extends as the cover 1 extends as the cover L separates from the vehicle body B. In this embodiment, the extension part 3 is formed as a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section perpendicular to the X-axis, but it can also be formed as a cylindrical shape with a quadrilateral cross-section or other shapes. In addition, as long as the extension part 3 can extend and retract in the X-axis direction, its constituent material is not particularly limited, and it can be formed of elastically deformable rubber, synthetic resin, etc.

[0040] In this embodiment, the extension 3 is configured such that, when the cover 1 is in a compressed state, the restoring force of the extension 3 in the X-axis direction is less than the restoring force of the pleated portion 2 in the X-axis direction. In this case, compared to the case where the cover 1 is formed entirely by the pleated portion 2, the increase in the restoring force of the cover 1 as a whole due to compression can be suppressed. When the cover 1 is applied to the cover opening and closing device M, by suppressing the increase in the restoring force in the X-axis direction due to compression of the cover 1, the situation where the cover L is pressed up by the restoring force of the cover 1 and floats off the vehicle body surface when it is in the closed position is suppressed.

[0041] The extension portion 3 only needs to be configured such that the restoring force of the extension portion 3 in the X-axis direction is less than the restoring force of the pleated portion 2 in the X-axis direction when the cover 1 is in a compressed state; its shape is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the extension 3 is formed such that the outer diameter OD1 of the end of the extension 3 on the opposite side (the other end 3b in this embodiment) of the side connected to the wrinkled portion 2 in the X-axis direction is smaller than the inner diameter ID of the wrinkled portion side valley 22 of the wrinkled portion 2. Figures 3C to 3D As shown, the extension 3 is configured such that when the cover 1 is compressed in the X-axis direction, at least a portion of the extension 3 displaces into the interior (radially inward) of the folded portion 2. By configuring the extension 3 in this way, even if the wall thickness of the components constituting the folded portion 2 and the extension 3 are approximately the same, the restoring force of the extension 3 in the X-axis direction can be made smaller than that of the folded portion 2. This is because, as will be described in detail below, when the extension 3 is compressed in the X-axis direction and at least a portion of it displaces into the interior of the folded portion 2, it bends in a radially overlapping manner, thereby increasing the radial restoring force, but the restoring force in the X-axis direction does not increase as much as the radial restoring force.

[0042] For example, while thinning the wall of the cover can reduce the restoring force, it also degrades durability and may break during handling or use. Conversely, thickening the wall of the cover increases its length during compression, and if compression is performed to shorten its length, the restoring force increases. Therefore, it is difficult to apply to locations with limited space for the cover, such as the fuel supply or power supply space of the cover opening and closing device M. Furthermore, even if it can be applied to the cover opening and closing device M, the reaction force (restoring force) acting on the cover L increases, causing the surface of the cover L to float relative to the surrounding vehicle body surface, creating a height difference between the surface of the cover L and the surrounding vehicle body surface, which may compromise the aesthetic design.

[0043] In this embodiment, the extension portion 3 is configured such that when the cover 1 is compressed in the X-axis direction, at least a portion of the extension portion 3 is displaced into the interior of the folded portion 2. This reduces the restoring force without thinning the extension portion 3, thus suppressing the degradation of durability and the reduction in strength caused by thinning. Furthermore, by making the restoring force of the extension portion 3 in the X-axis direction smaller than that of the folded portion 2, the restoring force of the cover 1 as a whole in the X-axis direction can be reduced. As described above, when the cover L is in the closed position, the situation where the cover L is pressed against the reaction force (restoring force) of the cover 1 and lifts off the vehicle body surface can be suppressed. In addition, when the cover 1 is compressed, at least a portion of the extension portion 3 is displaced into the interior of the folded portion 2. This suppresses the increase in restoring force caused by compression compared to the case where the cover 1 is formed solely by the folded portion 2, and also shortens the length of the cover 1 when compressed. Therefore, when the cover 1 is applied to the cover opening and closing device M, the length of the cover 1 when compressed can be shortened, so the cover 1 can also be accommodated in the narrow fuel supply or power supply space between the cover L and the vehicle body B.

[0044] The extension portion 3 only needs to be configured such that at least a portion of the extension portion 3 is displaced into the interior of the folded portion 2 when the cover 1 is compressed in the X-axis direction; its construction is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the extension portion 3 includes: an extension portion side peak portion 31, disposed adjacent to the pleated portion 2; an extension portion side valley portion 32, disposed adjacent to one end 1a and / or the other end 1b (in this embodiment, the other end 1b) of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction; and a connecting portion 33, connecting the extension portion side peak portion 31 and the extension portion side valley portion 32. The extension portion side peak portion 31 protrudes radially outward and is formed into an annular shape, while the extension portion side valley portion 32 is recessed radially inward and is formed into an annular shape. Furthermore, the connecting portion 33 is formed as a cylindrical shape that narrows from the extension portion side peak portion 31 toward the extension portion side valley portion 32 and extends along the X-axis direction. In this embodiment, each extension portion 3 is provided with one extension portion side peak portion 31, one extension portion side valley portion 32, and one connecting portion 33. Figures 3C to 3D As shown, the connecting portion 33 is configured such that when the protective cover 1 is compressed in the X-axis direction, at least a portion of the connecting portion 33 displaces into the interior (radially inward) of the folded portion 2. By providing the extension side peak portion 31 adjacent to the folded portion 2 and the extension side valley portion 32 adjacent to one end 1a and / or the other end 1b (the other end 1b in this embodiment) of the protective cover 1, the connecting portion 33 easily bends radially inward when the protective cover 1 is compressed. Thus, it is not necessary to ensure extra space for bending the extension portion 3 on the radially outer side of the protective cover 1.

[0045] The extension portion 3 only needs to be configured such that at least a portion of the extension portion 3 is displaced into the interior of the folded portion 2 when the cover 1 is compressed in the X-axis direction; its size is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the extension portion 3 is formed such that the length D1 in the X-axis direction between the side peak portion 31 and the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion is longer than the length D2 in the X-axis direction between the side peak portion 21 and the side valley portion 22 of the wrinkle portion. Therefore, when the cover 1 is compressed, the deformation of the wrinkle portion 2 radially outward can be suppressed, and the connecting portion 33 can deform easily, so at least a portion of the connecting portion 33 can easily displace into the interior of the wrinkle portion 2. Because at least a portion of the connecting portion 33 can easily displace into the interior of the wrinkle portion 2, the increase in the restoring force in the X-axis direction of the extension portion 3 can be suppressed.

[0046] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the extension 3 is formed such that the outer diameter OD2 of the side peak 31 of the extension is smaller than the outer diameter OD3 of the side peak 21 of the pleated portion. Therefore, for example, when the cover 1 is applied to the cover opening and closing device M that is to be installed, such as... Figure 3C As shown, when the cover 1 is compressed, the side peak 31 of the extension portion can be prevented from contacting the vehicle body B, which serves as the base portion, thus further shortening the length of the cover 1 during compression.

[0047] The extension portion 3 may also be formed with a higher rigidity in the side valley portion 32 than in other parts of the extension portion 3. By increasing the rigidity of the side valley portion 32, deformation of the side valley portion 32 is suppressed when the cover 1 is compressed, and bending of the connecting portion 33 is promoted, making it easier for the connecting portion 33 to enter the interior of the fold portion 2. In addition, as deformation of the side valley portion 32 is suppressed, deformation of one end 1a and / or the other end 1b (the other end 1b in this embodiment) of the cover 1 adjacent to the side valley portion 32 in the axial X direction is also suppressed, thus suppressing axial tilting of the opening of one end 1a and / or the other end 1b of the cover 1. Thus, for example, when the cover 1 is used after being mounted on the mounting object M, the contact surface between one end 1a and / or the other end 1b of the cover 1 and the base B is suppressed from floating, and water or dust is suppressed from entering from the opening of one end 1a and / or the other end 1b of the cover 1.

[0048] To improve the rigidity of the side valley portion 32 of the extension, for example, as Figure 2As shown, a tongue portion 34 may also be provided in the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion. The tongue portion 34 extends radially inward from the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion and is formed in a ring shape along the X-axis of the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion. By providing a tongue portion 34 extending radially inward in the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion adjacent to one end 1a and / or the other end 1b (the other end 1b in this embodiment), the size of the opening at one end 1a and / or the other end 1b of the protective cover 1 can be reduced, thereby further suppressing the intrusion of water, dust, etc. from the opening at one end 1a and / or the other end 1b of the protective cover 1.

[0049] Next, refer to Figures 3A to 3D and Figure 4 The telescopic operation of the cover 1 will be explained below. Hereinafter, the telescopic operation of the cover 1 will be explained using the case where the cover 1 is applied to a cover opening / closing device M, which is the object of installation. However, the cover of the present invention is not limited to the following example and can be applied to other applications. Furthermore, the telescopic operation of the cover 1 described below is an example, and the telescopic operation of the cover of the present invention is not limited to the following example.

[0050] Figures 3A to 3D This indicates that the cover L is in the open position relative to the vehicle body B (see reference). Figure 3A ) via the closed position (refer to Figure 3C Move forward to the next position (reference) Figure 3D The change in the extension / retraction state of the shield 1 when it moves or moves in the opposite direction. Additionally, Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates the relationship between the length of the shield 1 in the X-axis direction (horizontal axis) and the restoring force of the shield 1 in the X-axis direction (vertical axis). Figure 4 The labels IIIA to IIID shown represent the... Figures 3A to 3D The corresponding shield length. Additionally, in Figures 3A to 3D For ease of understanding, only the upper half of the shield 1 is shown in the cross section, but the lower half of the cross section also shows the same behavior as the upper half of the cross section.

[0051] When cover L is in the open position (refer to...) Figure 3A The other end 1b of the protective cover 1 does not abut against the vehicle body B, and is in a state of natural length extension, and does not have restoring force in the X-axis direction (refer to...). Figure 4 When the cover L approaches the vehicle body B from its open position, the other end 1b of the cover 1 abuts against the vehicle body B, but at that point it is in its naturally elongated state. If the cover L further approaches the vehicle body B from this position in the X-axis direction, the cover 1... Figure 4 The restoring force changes as shown in stages I, II, and III, and as... Figures 3B to 3DAs shown, the cover L is pressed against the vehicle body B and compressed in the X-axis direction, thus entering a compressed state. Conversely, when the cover L moves from the forward position (refer to...) in the X-axis direction... Figure 3D When moving away from vehicle body B, such as Figure 4 As shown in stages III, II, and I, the restoring force changes, and the shield 1 elongates in the X-axis direction through its own restoring force, returning to its natural length.

[0052] Next, the transition of the protective cover 1 from the elongated state to the compressed state and from the compressed state to the elongated state will be described in detail.

[0053] If the cover L moves closer to the vehicle body B from the position where it contacts the vehicle body B at the other end 1b of the cover 1, then as Figure 3B As shown, the extension portion 3, whose restoring force in the X-axis direction is relatively smaller than that of the wrinkled portion 2, is compressed first. As the extension portion 3 is compressed, the valley portion 32 on the extension portion side of the extension portion 3 displaces towards the wrinkled portion 2 along the X-axis direction, and the connecting portion 33 of the extension portion 3 bends, forming a peak-side bend 33a adjacent to the peak portion 31 on the extension portion side and a valley-side bend 33b adjacent to the valley portion 32 on the extension portion side, and displaces towards the interior (radially inward) of the wrinkled portion 2. At this time, the extension portion 3 has an S-shaped cross-section with bends in the peak portion 31, peak-side bend 33a, valley-side bend 33b, and valley portion 32 on the extension portion side. From the time the cover 1 is in the extended state, the tilt angle of the connecting portion 33 relative to the X-axis increases as it moves towards the interior of the wrinkled portion 2. Figure 3B As shown, if the valley-side curved portion 33b moves to the periphery of the radially inner side of the extended portion peak portion 31, the connecting portion 33 extends at an angle nearly perpendicular to the axis X. The extended portion 3, compressed in the axis X direction, is configured to bend such that the peak-side curved portion 33a and the valley-side curved portion 33b overlap radially, respectively, and a restoring force acts radially. The extended portion 3 pushes the extended portion peak portion 31 radially outward by this radial restoring force. From the extended state to the compressed state, the restoring force of the connecting portion 33 in the axis X direction gradually increases, and due to the increased restoring force of the connecting portion 33, the wrinkled portion 2 is also slightly compressed in the axis X direction, and the restoring force of the wrinkled portion 2 in the axis X direction gradually increases. Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown in stage I, the restoring force of shield 1 increases as the shield length decreases.

[0054] When cover L from Figure 3B When the position shown is further close to the vehicle body B, as Figure 3CAs shown, the valley-side curved portion 33b of the connecting portion 33 is displaced to a position radially inward of the valley portion 22 of the wrinkled portion 2, and the connecting portion 33 is inclined relative to the X-axis in the opposite direction to the elongation. By inclining the connecting portion 33 relative to the X-axis in the opposite direction to the elongation, the extension-side peak portion 31, which was pushed radially outward, is displaced radially inward, and the restoring force of the extension portion 3 in the X-axis direction decreases. Accompanying this, the wrinkled portion 2, which is slightly compressed by the restoring force of the extension portion 3, slightly elongates along the X-axis, and the restoring force of the wrinkled portion 2 in the X-axis direction also decreases. Therefore, as... Figure 4 As shown in stage II, the restoring force of shield 1 decreases as the shield length decreases. Here, as... Figure 3C As shown, the extension 3 is configured such that, when compressed in the X-axis direction, it bends in such a way that the peak-side bend 33a and the valley-side bend 33b overlap radially, thereby exerting a restoring force in the radial direction. As a result, the restoring force of the extension 3 in the X-axis direction decreases, and the restoring force of the cover 1 in the X-axis direction also decreases.

[0055] When cover L from Figure 3C When the closed position shown is further close to vehicle body B, such as Figure 3D As shown, the extension 3 moves almost undeformed towards the wrinkle 2 in the X-axis direction, and the wrinkle 2 is compressed along the X-axis. The valley-side bend 33b of the connecting part 33 moves to a position radially inward of the wrinkle-side peak 21 of the wrinkle 2. Because the length of the wrinkle 2 in the X-axis direction is shortened, the restoring force of the wrinkle 2 in the X-axis direction increases. Therefore, as... Figure 4 As shown in stage III, the restoring force of the shield 1 increases as the shield length decreases. In stage III, the extension 3 is also configured to bend radially with the peak-side bend 33a and the valley-side bend 33b overlapping, thus exerting a restoring force primarily in the radial direction. Furthermore, the pleats 2 are configured to bend in an overlapping manner along the X-axis, exerting a restoring force primarily in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the X-axis restoring force of the extension 3 decreases, while the X-axis restoring force of the pleats 2 increases. Consequently, the X-axis restoring force of the shield 1 is primarily achieved through the increased restoring force of the pleats 2.

[0056] Conversely, when the cover L from Figure 3D When the forward position shown moves away from the vehicle body B in the X-axis direction, as... Figure 3C As shown, the folded portion 2, whose restoring force in the X-axis direction is greater than that of the extension portion 3, elongates first. As the folded portion 2 elongates to near its natural length, the restoring force decreases, and the extension portion 3 displaces from the inside of the folded portion 2 toward the outside of the folded portion 2 in the X-axis direction. With the elongation of the folded portion 2, the restoring force in the X-axis direction of the folded portion 2 decreases; therefore, as... Figure 4 As shown in stage III, as the fold 2 elongates and the length of the shield increases, the restoring force of the shield 1 decreases.

[0057] When cover L from Figure 3C When the closed position shown is moved away from vehicle body B in the X-axis direction, as... Figure 3B As shown, instead of the wrinkled portion 2 with reduced restoring force, the extended portion 3 elongates due to the restoring force in the X-axis direction of the extended portion 3. At this time, the valley-side curved portion 33b of the extended portion 3 displaces from the inside of the wrinkled portion 2 to the outside of the wrinkled portion 2 in the X-axis direction, and the angle of the connecting portion 33 relative to the X-axis gradually increases. Moreover, the connecting portion 33 extends at an angle close to the vertical direction relative to the X-axis, and the restoring force acting radially outward pushes the side peak portion 31 of the extended portion radially outward. Up to this point in time, the restoring force of the connecting portion 33 in the X-axis direction gradually increases, and through the increased restoring force of the connecting portion 33, the wrinkled portion 2 is also slightly compressed in the X-axis direction, and the restoring force of the wrinkled portion 2 in the X-axis direction gradually increases. Therefore, as Figure 4 As shown in stage II, the restoring force of shield 1 increases as the shield length increases.

[0058] When cover L from Figure 3B When the position shown moves away from the vehicle body B in the X-axis direction, as... Figure 3A As shown, the connecting portion 33 is displaced from the inside of the wrinkled portion 2 to a position on the outside in the X-axis direction, tilting relative to the X-axis towards the side opposite to the maximum compression. Consequently, the peak-side bend 33a and the valley-side bend 33b disappear from the connecting portion 33, the bent connecting portion 33 returns to its original state, and the extended-side peak 31, which was pushed radially outward, returns to its original position. In this stage, as... Figure 4 As shown in stage I, the restoring force of shield 1 decreases as the shield length increases.

[0059] As can be seen from the above description, the shield 1 is configured to have a state of minimal restoring force between its naturally elongated state and its most compressed state. Figure 4 In the context of the state between stage II and stage III, the minimum restoring force state is one in which the restoring force in the X-axis direction changes from decreasing (or increasing) to increasing (or decreasing) as the compression ratio increases (or decreases). The cover 1 can maintain a quasi-stable compressed state under the minimum restoring force state throughout the entire compression process. When the cover 1 is applied to the cover opening / closing device M, which is the installation target, by setting the closed position of the cover L to a position corresponding to this minimum restoring force state, it is possible to further suppress the cover L from lifting off the vehicle body surface when in the closed position.

[0060] As described above, when the shield 1 is used with its end in the X-axis direction (the other end 1b in this embodiment) as a free end, it needs to recover from a compressed state to an elongated state solely through its own restoring force, without receiving external force assistance. To facilitate the shield 1's easy recovery to an elongated state solely through its own restoring force, Figures 5-9 In the protective cover 1 shown, a high-rigidity portion 35, which has a higher rigidity than other portions of the circumferential direction, is provided in a portion of the extension portion 3. The extension portion 3 is configured such that, when the protective cover 1 is in a compressed state, the restoring force of the extension portion 3 in the axial X direction is less than the restoring force of the folded portion 2 in the axial X direction, but by providing the high-rigidity portion 35 in a portion of the circumferential direction of the extension portion 3, it can easily return to an elongated state. Specifically, by making the rigidity of a portion of the circumferential direction of the extension portion 3 higher than the rigidity of other portions in the same circumferential direction, the timing of the recovery action when the extension portion 3 returns to an elongated state can be staggered in the circumferential direction, making the recovery action easier. For example, in this embodiment, regarding the... Figure 3C The state shown Figure 3B As described above, to achieve the transition of the state shown, if all parts of the extension portion 3 in the circumferential direction are to be simultaneously extended along the axial X direction, the entire circumferential side peak portion 31 of the extension portion needs to be pushed radially outward simultaneously. This requires increasing the outer diameter of the extension portion side peak portion 31, necessitating a large restoring force. In contrast, by providing a high-rigidity portion 35 in a portion of the circumferential direction of the extension portion 3, the extension portion side peak portion 31 located on the axial X direction extension line at the circumferential position where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided initially does not increase its diameter but instead moves radially outward. Other circumferential parts of the extension portion side peak portion 31 follow this displacement, thus enabling a restoring action without requiring such a large force.

[0061] The high-rigidity part 35 only needs to be provided in a portion of the circumference of the extension part 3, so that the timing of the recovery action of the extension part 3 is offset in the circumference. The circumferential position of the high-rigidity part 35 is not particularly limited. Figures 5-9 In the example shown, the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided only at one circumferential location of the extension portion 3, but it may also be provided at multiple circumferential locations of the extension portion 3. When the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided at multiple circumferential locations of the extension portion 3, it is preferable to provide it at a position asymmetrical with respect to axis X (a position offset circumferentially from a position symmetrical with respect to axis X). By providing the high-rigidity portion 35 at a position asymmetrical with respect to axis X, during the recovery operation at multiple circumferential locations where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the expansion of the outer diameter of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion is suppressed by pushing multiple portions of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion in opposite directions. Therefore, the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion can be easily pushed radially outward locally, making the recovery operation of the extension portion 3 easier.

[0062] The high-rigidity part 35 only needs to be provided in a portion of the circumference of the extension part 3 so that the timing of the recovery action of the extension part 3 is offset in the circumferential direction; the position of the high-rigidity part 35 in the X-axis direction is not particularly limited. For example, in Figure 5 and Figures 6A-6B In the illustrated embodiment, the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided in a circumferential portion of the extension side peak portion 31, and has an extension portion 35a extending radially inward and / or outward (radially inward in the illustrated example) toward the extension side peak portion 31, and is formed as a thick wall thicker than other portions of the extension portion 3. By providing the high-rigidity portion 35 in the extension side peak portion 31, when the extension portion 3 recovers, the extension side peak portion 31 is displaced radially outward, and the restoring force to return to its original position is increased, making overall recovery easier. In addition, by increasing the wall thickness to improve rigidity, the high-rigidity portion 35 can be formed more easily compared to cases where rigidity is improved using other components. Moreover, when the protective cover 1 is manufactured using a mold, mold forming is easy, and the protective cover 1 can be manufactured easily.

[0063] The high-rigidity portion 35 provided on the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion only needs to be formed with a wall thickness thicker than other parts of the extension portion 3, and its wall thickness is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the part of the side peak portion 31 on which the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the maximum thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 on the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion is preferably 1.2 times or more the thickness of other parts of the extension portion 3, and more preferably 1.25 times or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of making the part of the side peak portion 31 on which the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided easier to deform under compression, the maximum thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 on the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion is preferably 1.5 times or less the thickness of other parts of the extension portion 3, more preferably 1.4 times or less, and even more preferably 1.3 times or less. In addition, as Figure 6B As shown, the high-rigidity portion 35 of the extension side peak portion 31 is preferably formed such that the top 31a of the extension side peak portion 31, which has the largest outer diameter in the X-axis direction, has the largest thickness. By forming the high-rigidity portion 35 such that the top 31a of the extension side peak portion 31 has the largest thickness, deformation during compression of the portion of the extension side peak portion 31 in which the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided can be easily performed.

[0064] The high-rigidity portion 35 provided on the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion only needs to be provided in a portion of the circumferential direction of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, and its circumferential length is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the part of the side peak portion 31 on which the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably more than 1 / 20 of the circumferential length of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, more preferably more than 1 / 15, and even more preferably more than 1 / 10. In addition, from the viewpoint of improving the asymmetry of the radial outward extension of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably less than 1 / 4 of the circumferential length of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, more preferably less than 1 / 6, and even more preferably less than 1 / 8. In addition, as Figure 6A As shown, the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably formed such that the thickness of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion continuously decreases from the maximum thickness portion toward both sides in the circumferential direction. Therefore, when the extension portion 3 returns from the compressed state to the elongated state, it gradually recovers from the maximum thickness portion toward both sides in the circumferential direction in the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, thus making it easier to return to the elongated state.

[0065] High rigidity part 35, for example, can also be as follows Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in the modified example, the connecting portion 33 has a protrusion 35b that protrudes radially inward and / or outward (radially outward in the illustrated example) from the connecting portion 33 at a position adjacent to the valley portion 32 on the extension side and bending during the compression of the cover 1. The high-rigidity portion 35 is formed with a wall thickness thicker than other parts of the extension portion 3 due to the presence of the protrusion 35b. By providing the high-rigidity portion 35 at the valley portion 33b adjacent to the valley portion 32 on the extension side, the restoring force of the valley portion 33b where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided is increased, thereby increasing the force that pushes the peak portion 31 on the extension side outward, and the extension portion 3 can more easily return to its elongated state. Here, by increasing the wall thickness to improve rigidity, the high-rigidity portion 35 can be formed more easily compared to the case where other components are used to improve rigidity. Moreover, when the cover 1 is manufactured using a mold, the mold forming is easy, and the cover 1 can be manufactured easily.

[0066] The high-rigidity portion 35, which is disposed adjacent to the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion, only needs to be formed with a wall thickness that is thicker than other portions of the extension portion 3, and its wall thickness is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the circumferential portion of the extension portion 3 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is disposed, the wall thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1.1 times or more than the wall thickness of other portions of the extension portion 3, more preferably 1.3 times or more, and even more preferably 1.5 times or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of facilitating deformation during compression of the circumferential portion of the extension portion 3 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is disposed, the wall thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 2 times or less than the wall thickness of other portions of the extension portion 3, more preferably 1.8 times or less, and even more preferably 1.6 times or less.

[0067] The high-rigidity portion 35 only needs to be provided in a portion of the circumferential direction of the connecting portion 33 in the valley side bend 33b, and its circumferential length is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the connecting portion 33 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1 / 20 or more of the circumferential length of the connecting portion 33, more preferably 1 / 15 or more, and even more preferably 1 / 10 or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of improving the asymmetry of the radially outward extension of the extension side peak 31, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1 / 4 or less of the circumferential length of the connecting portion 33, more preferably 1 / 6 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 8 or less.

[0068] High rigidity part 35, for example, can also be as follows Figure 9 As shown in the variant example, the high-rigidity portion 35 is continuously provided along a plane including the X-axis, extending from the side peak 31 of the extension portion via the connecting portion 33 to the side valley 32 of the extension portion. The high-rigidity portion 35 has a protrusion 35c that protrudes radially inward and / or outward (radially outward in the illustrated example) from the extension portion 3. The protrusion 35c is continuously provided along a plane including the X-axis, extending from the side peak 31 of the extension portion via the connecting portion 33 to the side valley 32 of the extension portion. The high-rigidity portion 35, by having the protrusion 35c, is formed with a wall thickness thicker than other parts of the extension portion 3. By providing the high-rigidity portion 35 along approximately the entire length of the extension portion 3 in the X-axis direction, the restoring force of the circumferential portion of the extension portion 3 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided is increased, thereby increasing the force that pushes the side peak 31 of the extension portion radially outward, and the extension portion 3 can more easily return to its elongated state. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the high-rigidity portion 35 is not provided in the folded portion 2, but only in the extension portion 3.

[0069] The high-rigidity portion 35, which extends from the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion through the connecting portion 33 to the side valley portion 32 of the extension portion, can be formed with a wall thickness thicker than other portions of the extension portion 3; its wall thickness is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the circumferential portion of the extension portion 3 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the wall thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1.1 times or more than the wall thickness of other portions of the extension portion 3, more preferably 1.3 times or more, and even more preferably 1.5 times or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of facilitating deformation during compression of the circumferential portion of the extension portion 3 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the wall thickness of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 2 times or less than the wall thickness of other portions of the extension portion 3, more preferably 1.8 times or less, and even more preferably 1.6 times or less.

[0070] The high-rigidity portion 35 only needs to be provided in a portion of the circumferential direction of the connecting portion 33, and its circumferential length is not particularly limited. However, from the viewpoint of improving the restoring force of the portion of the connecting portion 33 where the high-rigidity portion 35 is provided, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1 / 20 or more of the circumferential length of the connecting portion 33, more preferably 1 / 15 or more, and even more preferably 1 / 10 or more. In addition, from the viewpoint of improving the asymmetry of the radially outward extension of the side peak portion 31 of the extension portion, the circumferential length of the high-rigidity portion 35 is preferably 1 / 4 or less of the circumferential length of the connecting portion 33, more preferably 1 / 6 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 8 or less.

[0071] Label Explanation

[0072] 1. Protective shield

[0073] 1a One end of the axial direction of the protective cover

[0074] 1b The other end of the axial direction of the shield

[0075] 2. Folds

[0076] 2a One end of the axial direction of the pleat

[0077] 2b The other end of the axial direction of the pleat

[0078] 21. Side peaks of the folded area

[0079] 22. Folded area and side valley

[0080] 3. Extension

[0081] 3a One end of the axial extension

[0082] 3b The other end of the axial extension

[0083] 31. Side peak of the extension

[0084] 31a Top

[0085] 32. Extension of the side valley

[0086] 33 Connecting parts

[0087] 33a Peak side curvature

[0088] 33b Lateral bend in the valley

[0089] 34 Tongue portion

[0090] 35 High-rigidity section

[0091] 35a Extension

[0092] 35b protrusion

[0093] 35c protrusion

[0094] AP arrival section

[0095] B. Base (Vehicle Body)

[0096] B1 Opening

[0097] D1 The axial length between the side peak and the side valley of the extension section.

[0098] D2 Axial length between the side peak and side valley of the wrinkle.

[0099] ID fold side valley inner diameter

[0100] L Movable part (lid)

[0101] L1 Protective Cover Mounting Components

[0102] L11 Installed Part

[0103] L12 Pressing Part

[0104] M Installation object (cover opening and closing device)

[0105] MP Installation Department

[0106] The outer diameter of the other end of the OD1 extension

[0107] Outer diameter of the side valley of the OD2 extension

[0108] Outer diameter of the side peak of the OD3 fold

[0109] OP Operations Department

[0110] X-axis.

Claims

1. A protective cover, which is a cylindrical cover extending along an axial direction and capable of telescoping in said axial direction, wherein, The protective cover has the following features: The folded portion alternately has folded portion side peaks and folded portion side valleys along the axial direction; and An extension portion is connected adjacent to the pleated portion along the axial direction and is disposed adjacent to one end and / or the other end of the protective cover along the axial direction. The extension is formed such that the outer diameter of the axial end of the extension opposite to the side connected to the folded portion is smaller than the inner diameter of the folded portion side valley portion of the folded portion. The extension is configured such that when the shield is compressed in the axial direction, the extension, whose axial restoring force is relatively smaller than that of the folded portion, is compressed first, and at least a portion of the extension is displaced into the interior of the folded portion.

2. The protective cover according to claim 1, wherein, The extension portion includes: an extension portion side peak portion disposed adjacent to the pleated portion; an extension portion side valley portion disposed adjacent to one end and / or the other end of the axial direction of the protective cover; and a connecting portion connecting the extension portion side peak portion and the extension portion side valley portion. The connecting portion is configured such that, when the protective cover is compressed in the axial direction, at least a portion of the connecting portion is displaced into the interior of the folded portion.

3. The protective cover according to claim 2, wherein, The extension is formed such that the axial length between the side peak and the side valley of the extension is longer than the axial length between the side peak and the side valley of the wrinkle.

4. The protective cover according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The extension is formed such that the outer diameter of the side peak of the extension is smaller than the outer diameter of the side peak of the wrinkle.

5. The protective cover according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The extension is formed such that the rigidity of the side valley portion of the extension is higher than the rigidity of the other portions of the extension.

6. The protective cover according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The extension is configured to bend radially in an overlapping manner when compressed in the axial direction, thereby exerting a restoring force in the radial direction.

7. The protective cover according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The shield is configured to have a minimum restoring force state between the elongated state and the compressed state, which is a state in which the axial restoring force changes from decreasing to increasing as the compression ratio increases.

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