Sun visor with handle lock function

Abstract

To provide a sun visor with a handle lock function having a light shielding function and an anti-theft function as the sun visor, and capable of being easily stored after releasing the anti-theft function.SOLUTION: A sun visor for a vehicle is provided with a fixing section (2) mounted to a pillar (P) of a vehicle body or to a roof frame (RF), a connecting shaft (3) having a base end connected to the fixing section (2), a frame (4) having a base end connected to the front end of the connecting shaft (3), a sun visor body (5) connected in the axial direction of the frame (4), and a locking means (6), wherein the connecting shaft (3) is provided so as to be able to swing in multiple directions with the base end connected to the fixing section (2) as a fulcrum, the frame (4) is provided so as to be able to swing in multiple directions with the base end connected to the connecting shaft (3) as a fulcrum, and the locking means (6) is provided with a grip section (6a) capable of engaging with a steering wheel provided to the front end of the frame (4), and a locking section (6b) capable of locking the steering wheel in the engaged state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a sun visor with a steering wheel lock function, and more particularly to a sun visor with a steering wheel lock function that has a vehicle theft prevention function while being a sun visor. [Background technology]

[0002] A sun visor is typically provided on the driver's side of a vehicle to protect the driver's eyes from sunlight, ensure visibility, and ensure driving safety. Such sun visors generally include a fixing portion for fixing to the roof frame or pillar (A-pillar) on the front side of the vehicle body, a support shaft connected to the fixing portion, and a sun visor body supported so as to be rotatable about the axis of the support shaft. The sun visor body can be moved between a storage position and an in-use position and fixed in the desired position. Therefore, if sunlight is too bright, the sun visor can be blocked by rotating the sun visor body about the axis of the support shaft from a storage position (storage position) in which the sun visor body faces the ceiling and fixing it in a position (in-use position) in which the tip of the sun visor body is moved toward the windshield. Conventionally, technologies have been proposed that add other functions to such sun visors. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a sun visor that has a storage bag on one side of the sun visor body for storing parking tickets, receipts, etc., as a use other than shading.

[0003] In recent years, the number of vehicle thefts has increased and become a serious problem in Japan, and various measures have been proposed to limit steering wheel operation when parking (for example, Patent Documents 2 to 4). Patent Document 2 discloses an anti-theft device that can connect a steering wheel to a seat belt and brake and fix them in a predetermined position. Patent Document 3 discloses an anti-theft device that can connect a steering wheel and a shift knob with an extendable frame and fix them in a predetermined position. Furthermore, Patent Document 4 discloses an anti-theft device in which a pair of rod-shaped members are provided so that they can move toward and away from each other via a connecting part that connects them, and the pair of rod-shaped members are equipped with a locking part for fixing them in a desired position, and it describes that by attaching the pair of rod-shaped members so that they sandwich the steering wheel, it is possible to restrict operation of the steering wheel. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-100795 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 7377183 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-100481 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-60925 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, conventional sun visors only have a light-blocking function, or if they are included, they are simply a structure with a storage case attached to the back of the sun visor body, and none of them take vehicle theft prevention into consideration. Furthermore, Patent Documents 2 to 4 describe anti-theft devices with a steering wheel locking function, but do not describe or suggest any function as sun visors. Furthermore, the anti-theft devices in Patent Documents 2 to 4 only describe methods of removing the devices and storing them in the back seat or trunk, raising concerns about their handling after use. Furthermore, these anti-theft devices are often stored in another location after removal, which creates the problem of reduced frequency of use.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above circumstances, the present invention provides a sun visor with a handlebar lock function that has a light-blocking function and an anti-theft function as a sun visor and can be easily stored after the anti-theft function is deactivated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The sun visor with handle lock function of the first invention is a sun visor for a vehicle, and comprises: a fixed portion attached to a pillar or roof frame of the vehicle body; an axial connecting shaft whose base end is connected to the fixed portion; an axial frame whose base end is connected to the tip of the connecting shaft; a plate-shaped sun visor body connected along the axial direction of the frame; and locking means, wherein the connecting shaft is arranged to be swingable in multiple directions around the base end connected to the fixed portion as a fulcrum; the frame is arranged to be swingable in multiple directions around the base end connected to the connecting shaft as a fulcrum; and the locking means comprises a gripping portion arranged at the tip of the frame for engaging with the steering wheel, and a locking portion for locking the steering wheel in the engaged state. A sun visor with a handle lock function according to a second aspect of the present invention is the same as that according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the connecting shaft is provided with a pair of swingable mechanisms on both ends, and is connected to the fixed part via a first swingable mechanism on the base end side, and is connected to the frame via a second swingable mechanism on the tip end side, and the connecting shaft is configured so as to be swingable in multiple directions relative to the fixed part and fixable at a predetermined position via the first swingable mechanism, and so as to be swingable in multiple directions relative to the frame and fixable at a predetermined position via the second swingable mechanism. It is characterized by: A sun visor with a handlebar lock function according to a third aspect of the present invention is the sun visor according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, characterized in that the frame is provided so as to be extendable and contractible along the axial direction. The sun visor with handle lock function of the fourth invention is characterized in that, in the third invention, the frame comprises a base frame and a slide frame that can be extended and retracted in the axial direction from the tip of the base frame and can be fixed at a predetermined position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the first aspect of the present invention, by locking the locking portion of the locking means while the connecting shaft and the frame are swung so that the steering wheel can be engaged with the grip portion of the locking means provided on the tip of the frame, the steering wheel can be locked while connected to the pillar or roof frame of the vehicle body. This allows the visor to be placed in a state where the anti-theft function is activated (used position). After releasing the locking portion, the frame is moved toward the inner surface of the vehicle ceiling, and in this state, the sun visor body is rotated around the axis of the frame to lock the visor in a position where one surface of the sun visor body is aligned with the inner surface of the vehicle roof (stored position). In other words, the visor can be easily switched from the used position to the stored position. Furthermore, the visor can be easily stored. In the stored position, the sun visor body can be rotated around the axis of the frame to be aligned with the windshield (shading position) like a typical sun visor, protecting the driver's eyes from sunlight. Therefore, a sun visor with a steering wheel lock function can be provided that functions as a sun visor and has an anti-theft function, while also being easily stored even after the anti-theft function is deactivated. According to the second aspect of the present invention, the frame and the sun visor body can be smoothly moved to a desired position via the swingable mechanism of the connecting shaft. According to the third and fourth aspects of the present invention, the frame can be extended and contracted, and therefore, in the storage position, the frame can be contracted to store compactly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sun visor 1 with a handle lock function according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sun visor with a handle lock function 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention in a use position. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sun visor with a handle lock function 1 according to the present embodiment in a stored position. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a sun visor with a handle lock function 1 according to the present embodiment in a light blocking position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The sun visor with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is a device that is attached to a vehicle and used, and like a general sun visor, it can protect the driver's eyes from sunlight while driving, and can also function as an anti-theft device.It is also characterized by the fact that it can be easily stored after the anti-theft device has been deactivated.

[0011] (vehicle) First, before describing the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment, a vehicle to which the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment is attached will be briefly described. 2 to 4, the vehicle to which the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is attached is not particularly limited in terms of model or use, as long as it has a steering wheel SW and a roof frame RF or pillar P (so-called A-pillar P, hereinafter simply referred to as pillar P) that constitutes the vehicle body. For example, any vehicle that can be fitted with a general sun visor can be used, and examples include, but are not limited to, not only passenger cars but also large vehicles such as buses and dump trucks, as well as heavy machinery.

[0012] 2 to 4, the driver's seat area of ​​the vehicle is equipped with a windshield WS, a ceiling R, a door, and a steering wheel SW (so-called handle). A roof frame RF is provided on the ceiling R near the upper end of the windshield WS, and pillars P are provided to support this roof frame RF.

[0013] Generally, the roof frame RF and the pillar P are covered with an interior cover member, but in Figures 2 to 4, they are shown in a state where they are not covered with the interior cover member (the roof frame RF and the pillar P are exposed) in order to make it easier to understand the installation status of the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment.

[0014] A typical sun visor is attached to the roof frame RF located in front and above the driver's seat or to a pillar P located diagonally above and in front of the driver's seat. The roof frame RF and pillar P are components that make up the vehicle body frame, and therefore have great strength. The sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment is attached to the roof frame RF or pillar P, which have great strength.

[0015] For example, the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can be attached to the same location (roof frame RF or pillar P) where a regular sun visor was removed. In this case, even if a criminal tries to tear the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment off the vehicle body, it cannot be easily destroyed because it is firmly connected and fixed to the vehicle body. This improves crime prevention performance. The sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment can be attached to the roof frame RF or pillar P on the front side of the vehicle, so it is not limited to the driver's seat side of the vehicle and can also be attached to the passenger seat side.

[0016] (Sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment) The sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment is detachably attached to the roof frame RF or pillar P of the vehicle as described above. The sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following description will be made on the case where the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is attached to a pillar P on the driver's seat side as a representative example.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the sun visor with handle lock function 1 of this embodiment includes a fixed part 2, a shaft-shaped connecting shaft 3 whose base end is connected to the fixed part 2, a frame 4 provided with a plate-shaped sun visor body 5 connected to the tip of the connecting shaft 3, and a locking means 6.

[0018] (Fixed part 2) The fixed part 2 is a rigid member, and its base end is connected and fixed to the pillar P. The base end of the connecting shaft 3, which will be described later, is connected to the tip of the fixed part 2. The shape of the fixed part 2 is not particularly limited, and various shapes can be used, such as a metal shaft, a rectangular shape, a cylindrical shape, or a conical shape.

[0019] The structure and method of the fixing portion 2 are not particularly limited as long as the base end can be connected to and fixed to the pillar P. For example, the structure may be one that can be detachably connected and fixed using screws, bolts, etc., or may be directly connected and fixed by welding, etc. In the former case, for example, the fixing part 2 may be provided with a flange F that protrudes outward from the base end, and this flange F may have a through-hole formed therein for inserting a screw, bolt, etc. so as to penetrate from the front to the back. Note that the number of this flange F may be one or two or more. 1 shows a state in which the flange F of the fixing portion 2 is connected and fixed to the pillar P with the screw S. However, when the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment is connected and fixed to the pillar P, the pillar P is covered and hidden by the cover member, so the base end of the fixing portion 2 cannot be seen from the outside.

[0020] (connecting axis 3) The base end of the connecting shaft 3 is connected to the tip of the fixed part 2. This connecting shaft 3 is a shaft-shaped member that is capable of swinging in multiple directions with the base end connected to the fixed part 2 as a fulcrum, and is also configured to be capable of swinging in multiple directions with the tip connected to the frame 4 as a fulcrum. In other words, the connecting shaft 3 is capable of swinging the frame 4 in multiple directions relative to the fixed part 2. Furthermore, this connecting shaft 3 is configured so that it can be fixed in a swinging state relative to the fixed part 2 and the frame 4.

[0021] Specifically, the connecting shaft 3 includes a rigid shaft-shaped connecting member 3a and swingable mechanisms (first swingable mechanism 3b and second swingable mechanism 3c) provided on both ends of the connecting member 3a. The first swingable mechanism 3b is provided on the base end side of the connecting member 3a and is configured so as to be connectable to the tip end of the fixed part 2. The second swingable mechanism 3c is provided on the tip end side of the connecting member 3a and is configured so as to be connectable to the base end of the frame 4. The connecting member 3a of the connecting shaft 3 is swingable in multiple directions around a base end connected to the fixed part 2 via the first swingable mechanism 3b as a fulcrum, and can be fixed in a swingable position by the first swingable mechanism 3b. Similarly, the connecting member 3a of the connecting shaft 3 is swingable in multiple directions around a tip end connected to the frame 4 via the second swingable mechanism 3c as a fulcrum, and can be fixed in a swingable position by the second swingable mechanism 3c.

[0022] The structure of this swing mechanism is not particularly limited as long as it can swing the connection member 3a in multiple directions relative to the fixed part 2 and / or the frame 4 as described above, and any known mechanism can be used.

[0023] For example, a known ball joint type movable mechanism can be used as the swingable mechanism. A ball joint type movable mechanism, for example, comprises a ball portion having a sphere and a socket portion having a space inside to accommodate the sphere, and the socket portion is provided with elastically deformable rubber or the like that comes into contact with the surface of the sphere fitted into the inner surface and functions as a cushioning material that can maintain the sphere held in a predetermined position.

[0024] For example, by employing a first swingable mechanism 3b including a ball portion coupled to the base end of the connecting member 3a and a socket portion coupled to the tip of the fixing portion 2, the tip side of the connecting member 3a can be made to swing in multiple directions around the tip of the fixing portion 2 as a fulcrum, and the connecting member 3a can be fixed at a predetermined position. Similarly, by employing a second swingable mechanism 3c including a ball portion coupled to the tip of the connecting member 3a and a socket portion coupled to the base end of the frame 4, the tip side of the frame 4 can be made to swing in multiple directions around the tip of the connecting member 3a as a fulcrum, and the connecting member 3a can be fixed at a predetermined position.

[0025] Furthermore, for example, the swingable mechanism may be configured to include a swinging portion having a swing axis, a rotating portion having a rotating axis, and a rigid shaft-shaped connecting member that connects the two. The swinging portion is connected to the base end of the connecting member so as to be able to swing the connecting member about the swing axis, and the rotating portion is connected to the tip end of the connecting member so as to be able to swing the connecting member about the rotation axis. The swinging portion and the rotating portion are configured to maintain a state in which the connecting member is held in a predetermined swing or rotated position. For example, various known structures can be used as holding means provided on such swinging portion and rotating portion, such as an engagement structure having a protrusion and a recess that can accommodate the protrusion, or a structure that holds the connecting member by using pressure contact with an interference member or the like.

[0026] For example, a first swingable mechanism 3b is employed, which includes a swingable portion connected to the tip of the fixed portion 2, a rotating portion connected to the base end of the connecting member 3a, and a connecting member connecting the swingable portion and the rotating portion. The swingable portion of the first swingable mechanism 3b has a swing axis that intersects with the axial direction of the fixed portion 2, and can rotate the connecting member around this swing axis. The rotating portion of the first swingable mechanism 3b has a rotation axis that is parallel to the axial direction of the connecting member 3a and has approximately the same axis center, and can rotate the connecting member around this rotation axis. In this case, since the connecting member 3a can be rotated while swinging, the tip side of the connecting member 3a can be swingable in multiple directions with the tip of the fixed portion 2 as a fulcrum, and the connecting member and the connecting member 3a can be fixed at a predetermined position. Similarly, a second swingable mechanism 3c is employed, which includes a rotating part connected to the tip of the connecting member 3a, a swinging part connected to the base end of the frame 4, and a connecting member connecting the swinging part and the swinging part. The rotating part of this second swingable mechanism 3c has a rotation axis that is parallel to the axial direction of the connecting member 3a and has approximately the same axis center, and the connecting member can be rotated around this rotation axis. The swinging part of this second swingable mechanism 3c has a swing axis that intersects the axial direction of the frame 4, and the connecting member can be rotated around this swing axis. In this case, since the frame 4 can be swung while the connecting member is rotated, the tip side of the frame 4 can be swung in multiple directions around the tip of the connecting member 3a as a fulcrum, and the frame 4 and the connecting member 3a can be fixed at a predetermined position.

[0027] The above-mentioned oscillating mechanism may be configured such that the oscillating and rotating parts of both oscillating mechanisms are interchanged, or such that only one of the parts is interchanged, and either configuration can provide the same function as described above.

[0028] In the above example, the connecting shaft 3 is described as having a pair of swingable mechanisms at both ends of the connecting member 3a, but the connecting member 3a may have a structure including multiple joints. Specifically, the connecting member 3a may be a shaft-shaped member formed in a flexible manner. In such a structure, the connecting shaft 3 may be provided with a connecting member 3a provided with a plurality of joints and a pair of swingable mechanisms (first swingable mechanism 3b and second swingable mechanism 3c) provided at both ends of the connecting shaft 3. Alternatively, the connecting shaft 3 may be provided with a connecting member 3a provided with a plurality of joints, and both ends of the connecting member 3a connected to the fixed part 2 and the frame 4 may each be provided with the swingable mechanism (first swingable mechanism 3b and second swingable mechanism 3c), i.e., each joint may be swingable in multiple directions.

[0029] For example, in the former case, the connecting shaft 3 includes a connecting member 3a provided with a plurality of joints and a pair of swingable mechanisms (a first swingable mechanism 3b and a second swingable mechanism 3c) provided at both ends thereof, and each joint of this connecting member 3a can have the same structure as the swingable mechanism described above. Note that a description of the structure of each joint in this case will be omitted as it is the same structure as described above.

[0030] In the latter case, the connecting shaft 3 can be configured to include a flexible shaft-shaped connecting member 3a, a base end of the connecting member 3a that connects to the fixed part 2, and a base end of the connecting member 3a that connects to the frame 4. The base end and the tip end of this connecting member 3a are the parts that function as the above-mentioned swingable mechanism (first swingable mechanism 3b and second swingable mechanism 3c). Such flexible connecting member 3a can have, for example, a structure in which a substantially columnar member is wound spirally, or a structure in which multiple substantially spherical members (made of metal, resin, or the like) are connected to each other so that they can swing sequentially along a specific direction. A specific example of the latter structure is a member having a spherical portion at one end and a fitting portion at the other end that can fit the spherical portion, and by fitting the spherical portions and the fitting portions of adjacent members together, the two members are connected to each other so that they can swing in multiple directions. An example of such a structure is a so-called flexible arm. In such a flexible connecting member 3a, a pair of adjacent members corresponds to each joint.

[0031] (Frame 4) A frame 4 is connected to the tip of the connecting shaft 3. A plate-shaped sun visor body 5 is provided on the frame 4, the base end of which is connected along the axial direction.

[0032] The frame 4 is formed of a rigid shaft-shaped member. For example, the frame 4 is formed of a metal bar, pipe, plate-like member, etc. The frame 4 is formed to a length that allows the steering wheel to be engaged by a grip portion 6a of a locking means 6, which is provided at the tip of the frame 4 and will be described later, when the frame 4 is swung relative to the connecting shaft 3 (for example, when the axial direction of the frame 4 and the axial direction of the connecting shaft 3 are parallel, i.e., when the frame 4 and the connecting shaft 3 are aligned in a substantially straight line).

[0033] The frame 4 may have an extendable structure. If the frame 4 is extendable, the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment can be stored compactly in a storage position described later.

[0034] The frame 4 can be configured to include a base frame 4a and a slide frame 4b that can be extended and retracted in the axial direction from the tip of the base frame 4a and can be fixed at a predetermined position. Specifically, the length of the frame 4 can be adjusted by extending and retracting the slide frame 4b from the base frame 4a.

[0035] The base frame 4a of the frame 4 is not particularly limited as long as it is a rod-shaped member that can accommodate the slide frame 4b in a retractable manner. For example, the base frame 4a may be a shaft member such as a hollow pipe-shaped member or a member with a C-shaped cross section. If it is a pipe-shaped member, the slide frame 4b can be housed therein, and if it is a C-shaped member, both ends of the slide frame 4b in the minor axis direction can be engaged and housed in the inner spaces formed within both ends. The slide frame 4b is a shaft-shaped member that can be housed within the base frame 4a and is formed to be equal to or slightly longer than the length of the base frame 4a. The slide frame 4b is provided so that, when housed within the base frame 4a, the slide frame 4b can move relative to the base frame 4a along the axial direction of the base frame 4a and can be fixed at a predetermined position.

[0036] The slide frame 4b does not have to be a single piece, and may be configured as a telescopic structure by combining multiple hollow shaft members. In such a configuration, the sun visor body 5 is provided on the base frame 4a of the frame 4, and the grip portion 6a of the locking means 6 is provided on the tip of the most forward slide frame 4b of the multiple slide frames 4b.

[0037] Furthermore, a known structure can be adopted as the structure that enables the slide frame 4b to be fixed at a predetermined position. Although known structures will be shown below, it goes without saying that the structures that enable the slide frame 4b to be fixed at a predetermined position are not limited to these structures. The slide frame 4b may be fixed at a predetermined position relative to the base frame 4a by a locking portion 6b of the locking means 6, which will be described later. Specifically, the slide frame 4b and the base frame 4a may be connected and fixed by the locking portion 6b so that through holes formed in the slide frame 4b and the base frame 4a communicate with each other. Details will be described later.

[0038] For example, a structure can be employed in which the outer peripheral surface of the internal slide frame 4b is pressed and fixed by tightening a male screw attached to the base frame 4a. Furthermore, for example, a structure can be adopted in which a plurality of holes are set at predetermined intervals in the slide frame 4b and the claws of the joint member attached to the base frame 4a are fitted into the holes, thereby fixing the slide frame 4b to the base frame 4a without using screws and allowing the length to be adjusted. Furthermore, for example, through holes are formed at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal direction of the base frame 4a, and a spring-biased pin is provided on the slide frame 4b. With this configuration, it is possible to adopt a structure in which the length of the frame 4 can be adjusted by moving the slide frame 4b in the axial direction and protruding the pin from the base frame 4a by a predetermined length, and then protruding and locking the pin into the through hole.

[0039] Furthermore, a locking portion 6b of the locking means 6, which will be described later, may be used to fix the slide frame 4b at a predetermined position. For example, a plurality of through holes are formed at predetermined intervals along the axial direction of the slide frame 4b and the base frame 4a. The through holes of the base frame 4a and the slide frame 4b are formed so that the axial centers of the through holes of both the base frame 4a and the slide frame 4b coincide when the slide frame 4b is moved along the axial direction of the base frame 4a. Therefore, when the slide frame 4b is moved along the axial direction of the base frame 4a to extend the length of the frame 4, the through holes of the base frame 4a and the slide frame 4b can be aligned. In this state, by connecting and fixing both through holes with the locking portion 6b of the locking means 6 (described later), the slide frame 4b can be fixed at a position after being moved a predetermined distance along the axial direction of the base frame 4a.

[0040] When the frame 4 has an extendable structure, it may have a structure that prevents the slide frame 4b and the like from slipping off and becoming detached from the base frame 4a and the like. For example, in a structure including a base frame 4a and a slide frame 4b, an engagement piece is provided that protrudes inward from the edge of the tip opening of the base frame 4a, while an engagement flange that protrudes outward is provided at the base end of the slide frame 4b. In this case, even if the base end of the slide frame 4b moves to the tip of the base frame 4a, the engagement flange catches on the engagement piece, preventing the slide frame 4b from separating from the base frame 4a.

[0041] (Sun visor body 5) The sun visor body 5 is a plate-like member made of a material that can block light. For example, the sun visor body 5 is formed in a rectangular shape, and the base end of the long side is connected to the frame 4 along the axial direction of the frame 4. Note that, in the case where the frame 4 has a structure including a base frame 4a and a slide frame 4b, the sun visor body 5 is connected to the base frame 4a along the axial direction.

[0042] The sun visor body 5 is not particularly limited in material or structure as long as it can perform the light-blocking function. For example, the sun visor body 5 can be formed of a resin material with light-blocking properties, or it can be formed of wood or metal, or any material used in known sun visors. Furthermore, for example, the sun visor body 5 may have a structure in which a resin frame is covered with a resin sheet with light-blocking properties.

[0043] As described above, the sun visor body 5 is provided so that the base end of the long side is connected to the frame 4. The structure for connecting the sun visor body 5 to the frame 4 is not particularly limited. For example, the sun visor body 5 may be provided so that the base end of the long side is directly connected to the frame 4 or the base frame 4a. In this case, since the base end of the frame 4 or the base frame 4a is connected to the swing mechanism of the connecting shaft 3, the sun visor body 5 can be rotated around the central axis of the frame 4 or the base frame 4a by moving the tip end of the sun visor body 5 with the base end as a fulcrum.

[0044] The sun visor body 5 may also be attached so as to be connected to the frame 4 or the base frame 4a via a known sun visor support shaft. Such a sun visor support shaft may, for example, have a gripping portion that can grip and fix the frame 4 in the circumferential direction and a connecting portion that can connect and fix the sun visor body 5. With the sun visor body 5 attached, moving the tip of the sun visor body 5 allows the sun visor body 5 to rotate around the central axis of the frame 4 or the base frame 4a.

[0045] (Locking means 6) The locking means 6 has a hook-shaped gripping portion 6a that engages with the steering wheel SW provided at the tip of the frame 4 or the slide frame 4b, and a locking portion 6b that can lock the steering wheel SW in the engaged state. Specifically, the locking means 6 can be attached so that the steering wheel SW is detachably housed in the housing space within the gripping portion 6a, and when the steering wheel SW is attached so that it can be engaged, the locked portion 6b can lock the engaged steering wheel SW so that it cannot be used (see FIG. 4).

[0046] For example, the locking means 6 can form a ring-shaped storage space inside using a hook-shaped gripping portion 6a and a locking portion 6b. The gripping portion 6a has a storage space inside for storing a part of the wheel of the steering wheel SW (hereinafter simply referred to as the steering wheel SW), and an opening is formed in this storage space with an opening for storing the steering wheel SW from the outside. The locking portion 6b is a member that closes the opening of this opening. In other words, when the gripping portion 6a is locked with the locking portion 6b, a ring-shaped space is formed inside. When the steering wheel SW is stored in this storage space and locked with the locking portion 6b, it is possible to prevent the steering wheel SW from slipping out. As long as it has this kind of configuration, various structures such as known locking mechanisms, for example, locking mechanisms used to lock the rear wheel of a bicycle or locking mechanisms used in chain locks, can be used as the locking means 6. Specific examples will be given below, but it goes without saying that the locking means 6 is not limited to these structures as long as it has the above functions.

[0047] The locking unit 6b can be provided with various types of keys, such as a type that locks by inserting the key into a cylinder, a dial lock type, or a push button type. The locking unit 6b is locked using this key. The key may be provided so that both the key unit and the cylinder are detachable, or the cylinder may be fixedly connected to the grip unit 6a and / or the frame 4. In this case, the method for locking the cylinder may be a dial lock or push button type, or a structure without a key unit, or the cylinder may be locked using the key unit. An example of a detachable key is a padlock as shown in Figure 1. Detachable keys such as padlocks generally have a key part and a cylinder for inserting the key part to lock the lock. Such detachable keys may be left attached in a stored position, or may be removed and stored in a designated location at all times.

[0048] First, a case where the locking unit 6b employs a fixed link type key will be described. Examples of the fixed connection type structure include, but are not limited to, the following structures.

[0049] For example, the locking means 6 may have a structure including a gripping portion 6a formed of a rigid metal chain or wire connected to the tip of the frame 4 or slide frame 4b, and a locking portion 6b for fixing both ends of the gripping portion 6a in a contacting state. When the gripping portion 6a is in a ring shape, the space formed inside it becomes the accommodation space for the steering wheel SW.

[0050] Furthermore, the locking means 6 includes a locking portion 6b having a shape similar to the gripping portion 6a, which may be, for example, approximately C-shaped, U-shaped, or U-shaped. The gripping portion 6a and the locking portion 6b are connected at their base ends, and are connected so that their tips can swing toward and away from each other using this base end as a fulcrum. The base end of the gripping portion 6a is connected to the tip of the frame 4 or the slide frame 4b. The gripping portion 6a and the locking portion 6b are connected and fixed by the locking portion 6b when their tips are in contact. When the tips of this pair of gripping portions 6a are in contact with each other, a space formed inside serves as a storage space for inserting the steering wheel SW.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, the locking means 6 includes a generally U-shaped gripping portion 6a connected to the tip of the frame 4 or the slide frame 4b, and a locking portion 6b provided to close the tip opening of the gripping portion 6a. The locking portion 6b is a rod-shaped member, and its base end is swingably connected to the gripping portion 6a. The two can be connected and fixed together with the tip of the locking portion 6b abutting against the gripping portion 6a. When the tip opening of the gripping portion 6a is closed by the locking portion 6b, a space formed inside serves as a storage space for inserting the steering wheel SW.

[0052] Next, a detachable key will be described. The detachable key structure can include, but is not limited to, the following structures. In the detachable type, as described above, a storage space may be formed inside by the grip portion 6a and the detachable locking portion 6b, but a structure may also be used in which the locking portion 6b is spaced apart from the grip portion 6a when locked. In other words, the steering wheel SW may be locked by restricting and fixing the movement of the slide frame 4b with the locking portion 6b in a state in which the steering wheel SW is engaged within the storage space of the hook-shaped grip portion 6a.

[0053] For example, the locking means 6 has a gripping portion 6a formed in a U-shape, a C-shape, or a U-shape. The base end of this gripping portion 6a is connected to the tip of the frame 4 or the slide frame 4b. The gripping portion 6a is designed to be able to engage with the steering wheel SW when in the usage position.

[0054] 1, the grip portion 6a is formed of a plate-shaped base end portion 6a3 connected to the tip of the frame 4 or the slide frame 4b, a bottom portion 6a2 connected to the tip of the base end portion 6a3 so as to stand upright, and a tip end portion 6a1 connected to the tip of the bottom portion 6a2 so as to stand upright. If the bottom portion 6a2 is curved, the grip portion 6a can be formed into a U-shape or a C-shape. The space formed by the tip end portion 6a1, the bottom portion 6a2, and the base end portion 6a3, which is located inward from the shortest line connecting the tip of the tip end portion 6a1 and the base end portion 6a3, serves as a storage space for storing the steering wheel SW (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0055] Meanwhile, the locking unit 6b is configured to fix the slide frame 4b to the base frame 4a at a predetermined position along the axial direction of the base frame 4a. For example, the base frame 4a may be provided with a dial-lock type locking unit 6b that can protrude from and retract the slide frame 4b at the tip of the base frame 4a and fix it at a predetermined position (see FIGS. 1 and 2). Specifically, the locking unit 6b has a plurality of through-holes formed at predetermined intervals along the axial direction of the slide frame 4b and the base frame 4a, as described above. These through-holes are formed so that when the slide frame 4b is moved to a predetermined position along the axial direction of the base frame 4a, the through-holes of the base frame 4a and the slide frame 4b align (i.e., the centers of the two through-holes align). The locking unit 6b of the locking means 6 inserts the two through-holes together to lock them. An example of such a locking unit 6b is a padlock as shown in FIG. 1. There are no particular limitations on the style or model of this padlock, and various types, such as key-type and dial-lock types, can be used as long as they can be inserted through both of the above-mentioned through holes to lock.

[0056] When the above-described detachable configuration is adopted as the locking means 6, the steering wheel SW is accommodated in the accommodation space formed in the hook-shaped gripping portion 6a, and in the engaged state, the slide frame 4b can be fixed to the base frame 4a by the locking portion 6b, as shown in Fig. 2. That is, as shown in Fig. 2, the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment is arranged so as to be positioned on the line connecting the pillar P and the steering wheel SW. Specifically, the connecting shaft 3, frame 4, and gripping portion 6a are arranged so as to be positioned on the line connecting the tip of the fixing portion 2 and the steering wheel SW. In this case, with the steering wheel SW in contact with the inner surface of the gripping portion 6a, the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can hold the steering wheel SW in a pulled state against the pillar P. In other words, it can be set in a locked state in which the movement of the steering wheel SW is restricted (see FIG. 2). This state is the use position of the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment.

[0057] (Installation of the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment to a vehicle) A method for attaching the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function according to this embodiment will be described below, taking as an example a case where the sun visor is attached to a vehicle using screw holes in an existing sun visor.

[0058] First, remove the existing sun visor attached to the vehicle from the roof frame RF or the pillar P. Generally, existing sun visors are attached to the roof frame RF or the pillar P with screws, bolts, etc., so that after removal, screw holes are formed in the roof frame RF, etc. By aligning these screw holes with the through holes of the flange F provided in the fixing portion 2 of the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment and threading in the screws, bolts, etc., the fixing portion 2 can be connected and fixed to the roof frame RF, etc. In other words, the sun visor with handle lock function 1 of this embodiment can be attached to the location where the existing sun visor was removed. Moreover, since this attachment location is a structural member of the vehicle that has a strong strength as described above, it is possible to prevent destructive acts such as tearing off the sun visor with handle lock function 1 of this embodiment.

[0059] In the above example, the fixing portion 2 of the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment is fixed with screws, bolts, etc., but it is also possible to connect and fix it without using screws, bolts, etc. For example, the fixing portion 2 of the sun visor 1 with a handle lock function of this embodiment may be directly connected and fixed to the roof frame RF, etc. by welding, etc.

[0060] (How to use the sun visor 1 with handle lock function according to this embodiment) Since the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is configured as described above, when it is attached to the vehicle, the driver can easily place it in a use position where the steering wheel SW is locked and in a storage position where the lock is released by simply grasping the frame 4 and the sun visor body 5 with their hands and swinging them to the desired position. Moreover, from the storage position, it can be transitioned to a light-blocking position by the sun visor body 5, just like a general sun visor. In the following, a case where the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is attached to the pillar P on the driver's seat side as described above will be described as a representative example.

[0061] (Stored position) First, the storage position of the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment will be described as shown in Figure 3. In this storage position, the frame 4 is positioned so that its axial direction is aligned with the ceiling R near the windshield WS and is approximately parallel to the left-right direction of the vehicle. In this state, if the sun visor body 5 is aligned so that one surface 5bs (back surface) faces the inner surface of the ceiling R, the sun visor body 5 is released from the light-blocking position.

[0062] This will be explained in detail below. 1, in the sun visor with handle lock function 1 of this embodiment, the frame 4 and the fixed part 2 are connected via a swing mechanism (first swing mechanism 3b and second swing mechanism 3c) of the connecting shaft 3 provided therebetween. Specifically, the tip of the connecting member 3a of the connecting shaft 3 is connected to the base end of the frame 4 via the second swing mechanism 3c, and the base end of the connecting member 3a is connected to the tip of the fixed part 2 via the second swing mechanism 3c. Therefore, for example, when the frame 4 is gripped and moved by hand, the tip of the connecting member 3a connected to the base end of the frame 4 can be swung in multiple directions following the movement of the base end of the frame 4. At the same time, the tip of the connecting member 3a can be swung in multiple directions with the tip of the fixing part 2 as a fulcrum. In other words, the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment is formed so that when the frame 4 is gripped and moved by hand, the frame 4 and the connecting shaft 3 can be swung in multiple directions with the tip of the fixing part 2 as a fulcrum. Therefore, as shown in Figure 3, by arranging the frame 4 on the ceiling R near the windshield WS so that its axial direction is approximately parallel to the left-right direction of the vehicle and arranging one surface 5bs (back surface) of the sun visor body 5 facing the inner surface of the ceiling R, the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment can be placed in a stored position.

[0063] (Shading position) Next, the light-blocking position of the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment shown in Fig. 4 will be described. This light-blocking position refers to the state in which, in the stored position, the tip of the sun visor body 5 is swung so that the other surface 5fs (front surface) of the sun visor body 5 faces the inner surface of the windshield WS. In other words, this is the same state as when operated in the same way as a general sun visor. Specifically, when in the stored position, the sun visor body 5 of the sun visor with handle lock function 1 of this embodiment is arranged so that one surface (back surface) faces the inner surface of the ceiling R. The sun visor body 5 is connected to the frame 4. The frame 4 is connected to the connecting member 3a of the connecting shaft 3 via the second swing mechanism 3c, so that the frame 4 can be rotated around the central axis of the frame 4. Therefore, for example, if the sun visor body 5 is rectangular and the base end of the long side is connected to the frame 4, by grasping the tip of the long side with a hand and pulling downward, the tip of the sun visor body 5 can be rotated around the central axis of the frame 4, with the base end of the long side of the sun visor body 5 as a fulcrum. Then, by fixing the other surface 5fs (front surface) of the sun visor body 5 in a state close to the inner surface of the windshield WS, the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment can be placed in a light-blocking position. This operation is the same as for existing sun visors. Note that even if a structure is adopted in which the sun visor body 5 is connected to the frame 4 via a sun visor support shaft, the sun visor body 5 can be rotated around the central axis of the frame 4 in the same manner as described above.

[0064] (Usage posture) Next, the usage posture of the sun visor 1 with handle lock function according to this embodiment shown in FIG. 2 will be described. This usage position refers to a state in which the steering wheel SW is locked by the locking means 6 and the steering wheel SW and the vehicle pillar P are connected by the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment.

[0065] The sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is set from the stored position to the use position when the driver parks the vehicle and leaves the vehicle.

[0066] For example, the driver grips the frame 4 of the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment in the stored position and moves it until the grip portion 6a of the locking device 6 provided at the tip of the frame 4 can be connected to the steering wheel SW (see FIGS. 1 to 3). As described above, in the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment, the frame 4 and the fixed portion 2 are connected via the swing mechanism (first swing mechanism 3b and second swing mechanism 3c) of the connecting shaft 3 provided between them. Therefore, by gripping and moving the frame 4, the frame 4 and the connecting shaft 3 of the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment can be swung in multiple directions around the tip of the fixed portion 2 as a fulcrum. Then, the driver moves the grip portion 6a of the locking device 6 to the steering wheel SW. If the grip portion 6a of the locking device 6 and the steering wheel SW are separated at this time, the driver can simply extend the slide frame 4b of the frame 4 (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0067] Next, the steering wheel SW is accommodated in the accommodation space formed in the gripping portion 6a through the opening of the gripping portion 6a of the locking means 6. At this time, if the locking means 6 is configured to form a ring-shaped accommodation space inside with the gripping portion 6a and the locking portion 6b, the opening of the gripping portion 6a is locked with the locking portion 6b. Then, the steering wheel SW can be locked in a state where it is gripped in the ring-shaped space formed by the gripping portion 6a and the locking portion 6b. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2, if the locking means 6 is configured to engage the steering wheel SW with the gripping portion 6a, restrict the movement of the slide frame 4b, and include a locking portion 6b that can be connected and fixed to the base frame 4a, the steering wheel SW can be locked by locking the locking portion 6b with the steering wheel SW accommodated and engaged in the accommodation space of the gripping portion 6a. This state is called a state where the steering wheel SW is locked (or locked) by the locking means 6.

[0068] As described above, the steering wheel SW can be locked by the locking means 6 of the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment, so the steering wheel SW can be connected and fixed to the pillar P, which has a strong strength, of the vehicle. This state is the use position of the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment (see FIG. 2). Therefore, even if a criminal tries to destroy the steering wheel SW locked by the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment, it cannot be easily destroyed because it is connected to and fixed to the pillar P, which has great strength. Therefore, by using the sun visor with steering wheel lock function 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to improve crime prevention performance.

[0069] (Display means) The sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can be equipped with a display means for displaying information. This display means includes a display unit having an information display portion for displaying information. The display portion is formed of a plate-shaped member and can be attached to the surface of the sun visor body 5 facing the windshield WS (for example, the back surface 5bs) when the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment is in the use position. In this state, the information display portion can display text such as "Steering wheel locked." This alerts criminals from outside that the vehicle's anti-theft function is activated, thereby deterring crimes and further improving crime prevention performance.

[0070] The information display section of the display unit can be, for example, one in which predetermined characters are written in light-reflective paint, or one in which predetermined characters are displayed using a light source that employs an edge-light system. For example, the latter information display unit includes a display plate formed of a plate-shaped member and a light source provided on its back surface. This light source can be, for example, an LED light source electrically connected to an external power source or a battery by wiring. When light is irradiated from the light source, information such as predetermined characters or patterns is displayed on the display plate, which can be seen from the front side of the display plate. For example, the information display unit can be formed by printing information such as predetermined characters or patterns (e.g., the words "steering wheel locked") using paint of a predetermined color. It is also possible to form the information display unit by forming through holes in the shape of the predetermined characters or patterns in a light-shielding plate or the like.

[0071] (summary) As described above, the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can be simply attached to the pillar P or roof frame RF of the vehicle to protect the driver's eyes from sunlight (see FIG. 4) like a typical sun visor, and also function as an anti-theft device for the vehicle (see FIG. 2). Moreover, after use, it can be easily stored (stowed) by simply arranging it along the inner surface of the ceiling R like a typical sun visor (see FIG. 3). This eliminates the need to store the sun visor 1 with a steering wheel lock function of this embodiment in another location after use. Therefore, compared to conventional anti-theft devices that require installation from another location such as the trunk, the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can be easily moved downward from the stored position to the used position, and can be easily stored after use. In other words, the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment can be easily moved from the stored position to the used position while the driver is seated, just like a regular seat belt. Therefore, the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment completely eliminates the need for the cumbersome operation of removing a security device from the trunk or the like and installing it, as in the past. Therefore, when the driver leaves the vehicle, he or she will always switch the sun visor 1 with steering wheel lock function of this embodiment from the stored position to the used position, just like fastening a seat belt while driving. This increases the frequency with which the steering wheel SW is locked, thereby effectively preventing the vehicle from being stolen. Moreover, when in the stored position, the sun visor can be used in the same way as a regular sun visor. In other words, by using the sun visor 1 with handle lock function of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve the anti-theft function while also achieving the light blocking function of the sun visor, and moreover, it is possible to dramatically increase the frequency with which the anti-theft function is achieved. [Industrial Applicability]

[0072] The sun visor with steering wheel lock function of the present invention is suitable as a device for preventing vehicle theft by installing it in a vehicle and locking the steering wheel. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1 Sun visor with steering wheel lock function 2 Fixed part 3 Connecting shaft 3a Connecting member 3b Swingable mechanism 3c Swing mechanism 4 frames 5 Sun visor body 6 Locking means 6a Gripping part 6b Locking section F Flange of fixed part P-pillar R Car ceiling RF roof frame S screw SW steering wheel WS Windshield

Claims

1. A sun visor for a vehicle, a fixing portion that is attached to a pillar or a roof frame of a vehicle body; a shaft-shaped connecting shaft whose base end is connected to the fixed portion; a shaft-shaped frame having a base end connected to a tip end of the connecting shaft; a plate-shaped sun visor body connected along the axial direction of the frame; and a locking means, The connecting shaft is The base end connected to the fixed portion is provided as a fulcrum so as to be swingable in multiple directions, The frame is The base end connected to the connecting shaft is provided as a fulcrum so as to be swingable in multiple directions, The locking means is The frame is provided with a gripping portion that can be engaged with the steering wheel provided at the tip thereof, and a locking portion that can lock the steering wheel in the engaged state. A sun visor with a steering lock function.

2. The connecting shaft is It has a pair of swingable mechanisms on both ends, The device is connected to the fixed portion via a first swingable mechanism on the base end side, and is connected to the frame via a second swingable mechanism on the tip end side, The connecting shaft is The first swing mechanism allows the frame to swing in multiple directions relative to the fixed part and be fixed at a predetermined position, and the second swing mechanism allows the frame to swing in multiple directions relative to the frame and be fixed at a predetermined position.

2. The sun visor with a handle lock function according to claim 1.

3. The frame is Formed to be expandable along the axial direction 3. The sun visor with a handle lock function according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The frame is The slide frame is provided so as to be able to protrude from the tip of the base frame along the axial direction and to be able to be fixed at a predetermined position.

4. The sun visor with a handle lock function according to claim 3.

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