Shade device

Abstract

This shade device (20) comprises: a screen (40); a winding device (30); a main cover (50) to which a tip edge (42) of the screen (40) is fixed; a side cover (60) supported at an end of the main cover (50) so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover (50); and a slider (70) connected to the end of the main cover (50) so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction. The side cover (60) changes in orientation in synchronization with the main cover (50) changing in orientation. The slider (70) moves toward and away from the main cover (50) in accordance with the distance between a pair of guide rails (22) in conjunction with movement of a pair of runners (26). The slider (70) changes the orientation of the main cover (50) as the slider (70) moves along the longitudinal direction. The slider (70) moves the side cover (60) in the longitudinal direction as the slider (70) moves along the longitudinal direction.

Description

Shade device

[0001] This disclosure relates to a shade device used for a rear window of a vehicle or the like.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle roller blind system for shading a rear window. The vehicle roller blind system includes a pull-out end provided at the distal end of a cloth sheet, and slide pieces are built into both ends of the pull-out end. The pull-out end has a variable length and covers the exit opening of the sheet.

[0003] European Patent Application Publication No. 2522535

[0004] According to the vehicle roller blind system disclosed in Patent Document 1, by varying the length of the pull-out end, it is easy to close the exit opening of the sheet.

[0005] However, simply varying the length of the pull-out end may make it difficult to close the gap between the pulled-out cloth sheet and the window.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to make it easy to achieve both closing the pull-out opening of the shade and closing the gap between the shade and the window.

[0007] The shade device is a shade device that switches between a retracted state and an deployed state by the movement of a pair of runners along a pair of guide rails arranged so that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base end to the tip end, and comprises a screen having a base edge and a tip edge opposite to the base edge, which unfolds between the pair of guide rails to cover the window from the inside of the vehicle, a winding device located on the base end side of the pair of guide rails and which winds up the screen from the base edge side, a main cover formed in an elongated shape extending along the tip edge and to which the tip edge is fixed, and a side cover supported at the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover. The shade device comprises a slider connected to the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction, wherein the side cover is supported at the end of the main cover so as to change its orientation in synchronization with the orientation change of the main cover, the slider moves toward and toward the main cover in accordance with the distance between the pair of guide rails as the pair of runners move, the slider is connected to the end of the main cover so as to change the orientation of the main cover as it moves along the longitudinal direction, and furthermore, the slider moves the side cover in the longitudinal direction as it moves along the longitudinal direction.

[0008] This shade device makes it easy to both close the opening for pulling out the shade and close the gap between the shade and the window.

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the shade device in a retracted state according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the same shade device in an unfolded state. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing how the main cover changes its orientation. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the pull-out member and a pair of sliders. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the movement of the side cover relative to the main cover. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the end of the pull-out member. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the end of the pull-out member. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of Figure 6. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the end of the pull-out member. Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the end of the main cover. Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the slider holder and the slider. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII of Figure 7. Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining the changes in the orientation and length of the pull-out member. Figure 14 is a diagram showing one manufacturing process of the shade device. Figure 15 is a diagram showing another manufacturing process of the shade device. Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the rod-shaped part and insertion hole according to a first modified example. Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the rod-shaped part and insertion hole according to a second modified example.

[0010] The following describes a shade device according to an embodiment of this invention.

[0011] <Overall Configuration of the Shade Device> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the shade device 20 in the retracted state, and Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the shade device 20 in the deployed state. The retracted state is when the screen 40 is retracted, and the deployed state is when the screen 40 is deployed to spread out. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing how the main cover 50 changes its posture in accordance with the extension of the screen 40.

[0012] In Figure 3, U, D, F, and B indicate directions in a vehicle where the shade device 20 may be installed, with U being upward, D downward, F forward, and B backward. Upward and downward are sometimes collectively referred to as the vertical direction, and forward and backward are sometimes collectively referred to as the front-rear direction. In Figure 3, the direction extending towards the back of the page is to the right, and the direction extending towards the front of the page is to the left. Rightward and leftward are sometimes collectively referred to as the left-right direction.

[0013] As shown in Figure 3, the shade device 20 according to this disclosure is provided, for example, on a vehicle window 10. In this embodiment, the window 10 is a rear window provided at the rear B of the vehicle. The window 10 is formed in a trapezoidal shape, for example, an isosceles trapezoid, where the width in the left-right direction of the vehicle (the direction extending from the back of the page to the front of the page in Figure 3) narrows as it moves upward U. The window 10 is installed at an inclination with respect to the vertical direction (up and down direction) of the vehicle. For example, the window 10 is installed at an inclination toward the front F of the vehicle. The window 10 partitions at least a part of the vehicle's passenger compartment. In Figure 3, the space extending in front F of the window 10 and below D of the window 10 is the passenger compartment.

[0014] A mounting panel member 12 is located below D of the window 10. The mounting panel member 12 is, for example, a package tray. The mounting panel member 12 is located on the vehicle interior side of the lower edge of the window 10 (the end of the window 10 at the rear D in Figure 3). The mounting panel member 12 has a surface panel portion 13 that is exposed to the vehicle interior side. The surface panel portion 13 is closer to a horizontal orientation than the window 10. For example, the surface panel portion 13 extends horizontally (in the front-rear direction in Figure 3) from the lower edge of the window 10 below D of the window 10.

[0015] A storage slot 13h (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as slot 13h) is formed in the surface panel portion 13. The slot 13h is an elongated opening that extends along the width direction of the window 10 (the left-right direction of the vehicle, and the direction extending from the back of the page to the front of the page in Figure 3) and opens upward U.

[0016] The stored screen 40 is stored in a rolled-up state below the surface panel portion 13 D. The screen 40 is pulled out above the surface panel portion 13 U through the slot 13h. The pulled-out screen 40 can spread out and unfold along the inner surface (the side facing the passenger compartment) of the window 10. As a result, the screen 40 can shield the window 10 from the passenger compartment.

[0017] Since the screen 40 is pulled out through the slot 13h, the length of the slot 13h in the left-right direction (the direction extending from the back of the paper to the front of the paper in Figure 3) is equal to or greater than the maximum width of the portion of the screen 40 that can be unfolded on the inner surface of the window 10. For example, the length of the slot 13h in the left-right direction may be equal to or greater than the length of the base edge 41 of the screen 40 (see Figure 2). Also, the opening width in the short-side direction of the slot 13h (the front-to-back direction in Figure 3) is greater than the thickness of the screen 40.

[0018] Frame members are provided on both sides of the window 10 in the width direction (left-right direction). The frame members are, for example, pillars. A ceiling portion 16 is provided in front of the window 10 F. The ceiling portion 16 may protrude into the vehicle interior from the upper edge of the window 10 (the end of the window 10 in front of F in Figure 3).

[0019] Furthermore, the shade device 20 may be applied to windows other than the window 10 located at the rear B of the vehicle. For example, the shade device 20 may be applied to the side windows or roof windows of the vehicle. Also, it is not necessary for the window to which the shade device 20 is applied to be trapezoidal.

[0020] The shade device 20 comprises a pair of guide rails 22, a pair of runners 26, a winding device 30, a screen 40, a main cover 50, a pair of side covers 60, and a pair of sliders 70 (see Figure 4).

[0021] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pair of guide rails 22 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as rails 22) are elongated members made of resin, metal, or the like. The rails 22 have guide grooves 22g. The guide grooves 22g open to each other. The runner 26 moves along the guide grooves 22g. The pair of rails 22 may extend in a straight line, or they may be curved in whole or in part to the extent that they can guide the runner 26 to move.

[0022] The pair of rails 22 are arranged such that the spacing between them gradually decreases from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b. In this embodiment, the base end 22a of the rail 22 is the lower end located downward D when attached to the window 10, and the tip end 22b of the rail 22 is the upper end located upward U when attached to the window 10.

[0023] In this embodiment, the base ends 22a of a pair of rails 22 are fixed to both ends of the winding device 30. As a result, the pair of rails 22 are supported such that the spacing between them gradually decreases from the base ends 22a to the tip ends 22b. The pair of rails 22 may be arranged along the frame member on the outside in the width direction of the window 10. In other words, the pair of rails 22 may be arranged along the edges at both ends in the left-right direction of the trapezoidal window 10.

[0024] The shade device 20 can be switched between a retracted state and an unfolded state by moving a pair of runners 26 along a pair of rails 22. More specifically, the retracted state is when the pair of runners 26 are positioned at the base ends 22a of the pair of rails 22. The unfolded state is when the pair of runners 26 are positioned at the front ends 22b of the pair of rails 22. The shade device 20 can be switched between a retracted state and an unfolded state by moving the pair of runners 26 back and forth between the base ends 22a and the front ends 22b of the pair of rails 22.

[0025] The screen 40 has a base edge 41 and a tip edge 42 that faces the base edge 41. In this embodiment, the base edge 41 is the lower edge of the screen 40, and the tip edge 42 is the upper edge of the screen 40. The tip edge 42 is shorter than the base edge 41.

[0026] The screen 40 is configured to unfold between a pair of rails 22 to cover the window 10 from the inside of the vehicle.

[0027] For example, the screen 40 is formed in a shape that can shield the window 10. The screen 40 is formed by cutting, sewing, welding, etc., a mesh-like fabric, a resin sheet, etc., according to the shape of the window 10. In this case, the screen 40 is formed in an isosceles trapezoidal shape that matches the shape of the window 10.

[0028] The winding device 30 is located on the base end 22a side of the pair of rails 22. The winding device 30 is a device that winds up the screen 40 from the base edge 41 side.

[0029] More specifically, the winding device 30 includes a winding shaft 32 and a case 34.

[0030] The winding shaft 32 is formed in an elongated shape, longer than the base edge 41 of the screen 40. The base edge 41 of the screen 40 is connected to the winding shaft 32. The winding shaft 32 is formed to a length that allows the screen 40 to be wound up.

[0031] The case 34 is formed in the shape of a long case. The winding shaft 32 is supported within the case 34 so as to be rotatable around its central axis. The winding shaft 32 is biased in one rotational direction (winding direction) by a winding attachment mechanism such as a coil spring.

[0032] A space is formed inside the case 34 that can accommodate the winding shaft 32 and the screen 40 wound on the winding shaft 32. A slit 34S is formed on a part of the outer circumference of the case 34, which connects the space to the outside of the case 34 and allows the screen 40 to be pulled out.

[0033] When the shade device 20 is in the retracted state, the winding shaft 32 is biased by the winding tension mechanism and rotates in the winding direction, and the screen 40 is wound onto the winding shaft 32. On the other hand, when the shade device 20 is in the deployed state, the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 is located outside the case 34, and as this leading edge 42 is pulled along the rail 22, the winding shaft 32 rotates in the unwinding direction against the biasing force of the winding tension mechanism. As a result, the screen 40 is unwinded from the winding shaft 32 and can be unfolded along the window 10.

[0034] As described above, the pair of rails 22 are held in a predetermined position by being fixed to the winding device 30. However, the pair of rails 22 do not need to be fixed to the winding device 30. The pair of rails 22 may be fixed to a frame member or to other members. Also, even if the window 10 is not trapezoidal, the pair of rails 22 may be arranged such that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, the winding device 30 is positioned, for example, below D the slot 13h of the surface panel portion 13. The slit 34S is positioned below D the slot 13h. Therefore, the screen 40 is pulled out from the winding shaft 32 through the slit 34S and slot 13h to the upper U of the surface panel portion 13. The screen 40 spreads out from slot 13h along the passenger compartment side surface of the window 10.

[0036] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a pull-out member 50P is connected to the leading edge 42 of the screen 40. The pull-out member 50P comprises a main cover 50 and a pair of side covers 60.

[0037] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the drawer member 50P and a pair of sliders 70. A pair of sliders 70 are provided at both ends of the drawer member 50P. The pair of sliders 70 are connected to a pair of runners 26 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0038] By moving a pair of runners 26 along a pair of rails 22, the drawing member 50P moves between the base end portion 22a and the tip end portion 22b along the pair of rails 22.

[0039] When the drawing member 50P is positioned between the base end portions 22a of the pair of rails 22, the screen 40 is wound up by the winding device 30 and is put in a stored state. When the drawing member 50P is positioned between the tip end portions 22b of the pair of rails 22, the screen 40 is drawn out from the winding device 30 and is put in a deployed state.

[0040] <Regarding the overall configuration and movement of the drawing member> FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the movement of the side cover 60 with respect to the main cover 50.

[0041] The drawing member 50P is a member including the main cover 50 and at least one side cover 60. In the present embodiment, the drawing member 50P includes a pair of side covers 60.

[0042] The main cover 50 is formed in an elongated shape extending along the leading edge 42 of the screen 40. The leading edge 42 is fixed to the main cover 50. Thereby, the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 is kept in a straight state.

[0043] The pair of side covers 60 are provided at both ends of the main cover 50. At least a part of the side cover 60 is provided so as to project from the end of the main cover 50 in the direction in which the main cover 50 extends. The side cover 60 is supported so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. By moving the side cover 60 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the protruding length by which the side cover 60 projects from the main cover 50 can be adjusted. By moving the side cover 60 and adjusting the protruding length, the length of the drawing member 50P can be adjusted.

[0044] The pair of side covers 60 are supported at both ends of the main cover 50 so as to change their postures in synchronization with the change in the posture of the main cover 50. Therefore, when the posture of the main cover 50 changes, the postures of the pair of side covers 60 also change in the same manner.

[0045] Both ends of the lead-out member 50P are guided by a pair of rails 22 via a pair of sliders 70 and a pair of runners 26. The distance between the pair of rails 22 is different between the base end portion 22a side and the tip end portion 22b side. Therefore, the length of the lead-out member 50P is adjusted according to the position of the lead-out member 50P in the longitudinal direction of the pair of rails 22.

[0046] For example, in the stored state shown in FIG. 1, the tip edge 42 of the screen 40 is disposed between the pair of base end portions 22a. In the stored state shown in FIG. 1, the length of the lead-out member 50P is adjusted to be shorter than the distance between the base end portions 22a of the pair of rails 22.

[0047] In the stored state shown in FIG. 1, the tip edge 42 is disposed at a position corresponding to, for example, the slot 13h. The length of the lead-out member 50P is preferably adjusted so that the gap between the lead-out member 50P and the opening edge of the slot 13h can be made as small as possible in a state where the lead-out member 50P fits into the slot 13h.

[0048] In the deployed state shown in FIG. 2, the tip edge 42 of the screen 40 is disposed between the pair of tip end portions 22b. In the deployed state shown in FIG. 2, the length of the lead-out member 50P becomes shorter than the length of the lead-out member 50P in the stored state and is adjusted to be shorter than the distance between the tip end portions 22b of the pair of rails 22.

[0049] In the present embodiment, the pair of sliders 70 are connected to both ends of the main cover 50 so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The pair of sliders 70 are connected to the pair of runners 26.

[0050] Therefore, as the pair of runners 26 move along the pair of rails 22, the pair of sliders 70 also move along the extending direction of the rails 22. That is, the distance between the pair of sliders 70 is also adjusted according to the distance between the pair of rails 22.

[0051] For example, when the pull-out member 50P moves toward the tip 22b side of the pair of rails 22, the slider 70 moves along the rails 22 in a direction P1 that tilts toward the longitudinal center of the pull-out member 50P (see Figure 5). As a result, the slider 70 moves toward the longitudinal center of the main cover 50.

[0052] Furthermore, for example, when the pull-out member 50P moves toward the base end 22a side of the pair of rails 22, the slider 70 moves along the rails 22 in a direction P2 that is inclined outward in the longitudinal direction of the pull-out member 50P (see Figure 5). As a result, the slider 70 moves outward in the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50.

[0053] The slider 70 is connected to the side cover 60 such that, as the slider 70 moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the side cover 60 moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. For example, the slider 70 is connected from the end of the main cover 50 through the side cover 60 to the runner 26. The portion of the slider 70 that passes through the side cover 60 is connected to the side cover 60 such that the slider 70 and the side cover 60 are kept in a constant positional relationship along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50.

[0054] As the pair of sliders 70 move along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the position of the pair of sliders 70 relative to the main cover 50 in the longitudinal direction can be adjusted. By adjusting the position of the pair of sliders 70 relative to the main cover 50, the protruding length of the pair of side covers 60 relative to the main cover 50 is adjusted. This adjusts the length of the pull-out member 50P to correspond to the distance between the pair of rails 22.

[0055] Furthermore, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P is adjusted according to the position of the pull-out member 50P in the longitudinal direction of the pair of rails 22.

[0056] For example, in the stored state, the pull-out member 50P is positioned between the base ends 22a of the pair of rails 22, blocking the slot 13h. The slot 13h is an opening formed in the surface panel portion 13. The surface panel portion 13 is oriented horizontally. In order to minimize the gap between the pull-out member 50P and the edge of the opening of the slot 13h, it is preferable that the pull-out member 50P be oriented along the surface panel portion 13, for example, in a horizontal orientation.

[0057] The design is improved by having the drawer member 50P cover the slot 13h with as little gap as possible. In addition, it is difficult for foreign objects to enter the inside of the surface panel 13 through the slot 13h.

[0058] In the extended state, the pull-out member 50P is located between the tip portions 22b of the pair of rails 22 and is positioned on the interior side relative to the upper edge of the window 10.

[0059] For example, due to constraints imposed by the surrounding members of the rail 22, it may be difficult to set the guide groove 22g of the rail 22 to extend beyond the upper edge of the window 10. In this case, it may be difficult to position the pair of sliders 70 to extend beyond the upper edge of the window 10. If this occurs, the upper portion of the window 10 may be exposed to the passenger compartment above the pull-out member 50P supported by the pair of sliders 70. Therefore, in the deployed state, in order to minimize the gap between the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 and the window 10 when viewed from inside the passenger compartment, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P is changed to a non-horizontal position. For example, the orientation of the end of the pull-out member 50P is changed to a position higher than the pair of sliders 70. In this state, the pull-out member 50P may be in an oblique position or in a vertical position along the direction of gravity (up and down direction in Figure 3). In this embodiment, when deployed, the pull-out member 50P is positioned at an angle with its rear end raised upward U, for example, at a 45-degree angle to the horizontal (see the pull-out member 50P located at the uppermost U in Figure 3).

[0060] For example, when viewed from the front of the vehicle, the leading edges 42 of the pair of sliders 70 and screen 40 are positioned lower than the ceiling portion 16, and the pull-out member 50P spreads out between the ceiling portion 16 and the leading edges 42 of the screen 40, overlapping with the ceiling portion 16. This makes it difficult for light from the outside to enter the vehicle interior, and also makes it difficult to see inside the vehicle interior from the outside.

[0061] The pull-out member 50P changes from the above-mentioned posture in the stored state to the above-mentioned posture in the deployed state by moving from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b of the pair of rails 22. In Figure 3, the postures of the pull-out member 50P corresponding to the base end 22a, the tip end 22b, and the position in between the two of the pair of rails 22 are depicted. As shown in Figure 3, the pull-out member 50P may change its posture so that it gradually tilts more as it moves from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b of the pair of rails 22. More specifically, the pull-out member 50P may change its posture so that the main cover 50 rises from the front-to-back direction (horizontal direction) to the up-to-down direction (vertical direction) as it moves along the pair of rails 22 from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b.

[0062] In this embodiment, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P can be changed by adjusting the position of the slider 70 relative to the main cover 50.

[0063] In other words, the pair of sliders 70 are connected to the pair of runners 26. When observed in the direction in which the pair of rails 22 are aligned (the direction extending from the back of the page to the front of the page in Figure 3), the sliders 70 maintain a constant posture relative to the runners 26 and move together with the runners 26. That is, when viewed in the direction in which the pair of rails 22 are aligned, the pair of runners 26 move while maintaining a constant posture relative to the guide grooves 22g.

[0064] By adjusting the position of the pair of sliders 70 relative to the main cover 50 in the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the orientation of the main cover 50 relative to the pair of sliders 70 is changed when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The pair of side covers 60 can change their orientation to the same orientation in sync with the main cover 50.

[0065] Therefore, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P is changed as the pair of runners 26 move along the pair of rails 22.

[0066] The change in the orientation of the pull-out member 50P is an orientation change that can be observed by viewing it along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, and in this embodiment, it is an orientation change around the central axis of the pair of sliders 70.

[0067] <Configuration for changing the length and orientation of the drawer member> A specific example for realizing the operation of the drawer member 50P described above will be explained.

[0068] Figures 6 and 7 are perspective views showing the end of the pull-out member 50P. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in Figure 6. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the end of the pull-out member 50P. Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the end of the main cover 50. Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the slider holder 56 and the slider 70.

[0069] As described above, the drawer member 50P comprises a main cover 50 and a side cover 60. A slider 70 is supported at the end of the drawer member 50P so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The slider 70 extends from the end of the main cover 50 and is exposed at the end of the side cover 60 via the side cover 60. The slider 70 is connected to a runner 26 and moves together with the runner 26.

[0070] The following explanation focuses on one end of the drawer member 50P. The other end of the drawer member 50P may have a similar configuration.

[0071] The main cover 50 is an elongated member that extends beyond the leading edge of the screen 40. The main cover 50 has an insertion hole 56h into which the slider 70 is inserted so as to be movable back and forth. The insertion hole 56h into which the slider 70 is inserted may be a through hole or a bottomed hole. In this embodiment, the insertion hole 56h is a through hole.

[0072] In this embodiment, the main cover 50 comprises a main body portion 52, a cover portion 54, and a slider holder 56. In other words, the main cover 50 is constructed by combining multiple parts.

[0073] It is not necessary for the main cover 50 to be composed of multiple parts; it may be composed of a single part. If the main cover 50 is composed of multiple parts, the manner in which it is divided is not limited to the above example, and it may be divided at any point.

[0074] The main body portion 52 is a metal part that extends along the leading edge 42 of the screen 40. The main body portion 52 may be an extruded metal part, such as aluminum. If the main body portion 52 is a metal part, the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 will be kept firmly in a straight position.

[0075] The main body portion 52 may have a cylindrical portion 52a and rib portions 52b1 and 52b2 (see Figure 10). The cylindrical portion 52a is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The rib portions 52b1 and 52b2 are elongated portions that protrude from the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 52a. Rib portion 52b2, which is a part of the rib portions 52b1 and 52b2, may be curved to form a partial cylinder or a cylinder.

[0076] The slider holder 56 is a component supported at the end of the main body 52, to which the slider 70 is movably connected.

[0077] More specifically, the slider holder 56 comprises a guide cylinder portion 56a and an opening edge portion 56b. The slider holder 56 may be made of resin.

[0078] The guide tube portion 56a is formed in a cylindrical shape. The guide tube portion 56a is formed with an external shape that allows it to be inserted into the tube portion 52a of the main body portion 52.

[0079] The opening edge portion 56b is a flange-like portion that protrudes outward from the opening at one end of the guide cylinder portion 56a. In this embodiment, the opening edge portion 56b protrudes most significantly in the portion corresponding to the rib portion 52b2. A screw insertion hole 56bh is formed in the opening edge portion 56b.

[0080] With the guide cylinder portion 56a inserted into the cylinder portion 52a, the opening edge portion 56b contacts the opening end of the cylinder portion 52a. In this state, the screw insertion hole 56bh is positioned to correspond to the opening of the rib portion 52b2.

[0081] The cover portion 54 is a resin component that extends along the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 and covers at least a portion of the outer circumference of the main body portion 52.

[0082] For example, the cover portion 54 is a molded part made of resin. The cover portion 54 comprises an enclosure portion 54a that partially surrounds the outer circumference of the main body portion 52, and a pair of wall portions 54b that close both ends of the enclosure portion 54a.

[0083] The enclosure portion 54a includes a main plate portion 54a1 and an extended enclosure portion 54a2. The main plate portion 54a1 is formed in the shape of an elongated plate. The main plate portion 54a1 is formed in a shape that closes the slot 13h, for example.

[0084] The extended enclosure portion 54a2 curves from one edge of the main plate portion 54a1 toward one main surface of the main plate portion 54a1, and extends toward the other edge of the main plate portion 54a1 while maintaining a distance from that main surface. A space capable of accommodating the main body portion 52 is formed between the main plate portion 54a1 and the extended enclosure portion 54a2.

[0085] An elongated slit 54aS is formed between the other edge of the main plate portion 54a1 and the leading edge of the extended enclosure portion 54a2, through which the screen 40 can pass. As the orientation of the pull-out member 50P changes relative to the winding device 30, the position of the screen 40 pulled out from the main body portion 52 within the cover portion 54 may also change. The slit 54aS is set to an opening width that avoids interference with the screen 40, in accordance with the change in the pull-out angle of the screen 40 relative to the main body portion 52.

[0086] A wall portion 54b is provided so as to straddle the longitudinal end of the main plate portion 54a1 and the longitudinal end of the extended enclosure portion 54a2. The wall portion 54b extends in a direction perpendicular to the main plate portion 54a1. The wall portion 54b separates the space enclosed by the main plate portion 54a1 and the extended enclosure portion 54a2 from the space outside thereof.

[0087] The main body portion 52 is positioned inside the main plate portion 54a1 and the extended enclosure portion 54a2, between the pair of wall portions 54b.

[0088] The end face of the opening edge 56b of the slider holder 56, which is attached to the end of the main body portion 52, is positioned opposite the inner surface of the wall portion 54b.

[0089] An opening 54bh1 corresponding to the insertion hole 56h is formed in the wall portion 54b. The opening of the insertion hole 56h opens to the outside of the end of the main cover 50 through the opening 54bh1.

[0090] A screw insertion hole 54bh2 is formed in the wall portion 54b at a position corresponding to the screw insertion hole 56bh.

[0091] The screw S is inserted into the screw insertion holes 54bh2 and 56bh and screwed into the rib portion 52b2. This keeps the main body portion 52, the cover portion 54, and the slider holder 56 in a combined state. In this state, the slider holder 56 is prevented from rotating relative to the main body portion 52 and the cover portion 54. Note that the wall portion 54b may be omitted. In this case, the screw S may be inserted into the screw insertion hole 56bh without going through the cover portion 54 and screwed into the rib portion 52b2. Alternatively, in this case, the inward-facing portion of the enclosure portion 54a may be separately screwed to the outer circumference of the main body portion 52, thereby keeping the main body portion 52 and the cover portion 54 in a combined state.

[0092] The slider 70 is connected to the end of the main cover 50 so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. As the slider 70 moves along the longitudinal direction, the orientation of the main cover 50 is changed.

[0093] More specifically, the slider 70 has a rod-shaped portion 72 that extends from the longitudinal outer side of the main cover 50, through the side cover 60, toward the main cover 50. The rod-shaped portion 72 is inserted into an insertion hole 56h of the main cover 50 so as to be movable back and forth. The slider 70 may be a molded part made of resin.

[0094] A spiral guide is formed on one of the outer circumferences of the rod-shaped portion 72 and the inner circumference of the insertion hole 56h, and a guide receiving portion that moves along the spiral guide is formed on the other (see Figures 8 and 11).

[0095] In this embodiment, a spiral groove 72g is formed on the outer circumference of the rod-shaped portion 72 as a spiral guide. A spiral projection 56hp is also formed on the inner circumference of the insertion hole 56h as a guide receiving portion. The spiral groove 72g and the spiral projection 56hp extend in a helix shape with the same spiral pitch. The width and height of the spiral projection 56hp are set to be large enough to move along the spiral groove 72g.

[0096] In this embodiment, a spiral groove 72g is formed along the entire longitudinal direction of the rod-shaped portion 72. A spiral projection 56hp is formed along the entire longitudinal direction of the insertion hole 56h. A spiral groove may be formed on a part of the longitudinal direction of the rod-shaped portion. A spiral projection may be formed on a part of the longitudinal direction of the insertion hole.

[0097] In this embodiment, two radially opposing spiral grooves 72g are formed in the rod-shaped portion 72. Also, two radially opposing spiral protrusions 56hp are formed in the insertion hole 56h. The number of spiral grooves and spiral protrusions is arbitrary and may be one or three or more. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is described in which a combination of a spiral guide and a guide receiver is provided at each end of the main cover 50. However, a combination of a spiral guide and a guide receiver may be provided at only one end of the main cover 50. For example, a configuration in which a spiral protrusion fits into a spiral groove may be applied to one end of the main cover and one end of the slider, while a configuration without a spiral shape, in which a round rod rotatably fits into a round hole, may be applied to the other end of the main cover and the other end of the slider.

[0098] With the rod-shaped portion 72 inserted into the insertion hole 56h, the spiral projection 56hp is fitted into the spiral groove 72g. As the rod-shaped portion 72 moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the spiral projection 56hp moves along the inside of the spiral groove 72g, causing the main cover 50 to change its orientation around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion 72. For example, when the rod-shaped portion 72 moves in the insertion direction relative to the insertion hole 56h, the orientation of the main cover 50 is changed so that it is tilted from a horizontal position. Also, for example, when the rod-shaped portion 72 moves in the withdrawal direction relative to the insertion hole 56h, the orientation is changed in the opposite direction, for example, so that the main cover 50 approaches a horizontal position.

[0099] The slider 70 may have an intermediate connecting portion 74 that is connected to the runner 26. The intermediate connecting portion 74 protrudes from the outer end of the rod-shaped portion 72 in a direction intersecting the rod-shaped portion 72. A connecting hole 74h is formed at the tip of the intermediate connecting portion 74. The intermediate connecting portion 74 of the slider 70 is connected to the runner 26 by inserting the shaft portion 29P of the runner 26 into the connecting hole 74h (see Figure 9). In this state, the tip of the intermediate connecting portion 74 should be in contact with the connecting receiving portion 27 of the runner 26. This should ensure that the slider 70 maintains a constant posture relative to the runner 26 and the guide groove 22g when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The slider 70 may also be able to change its posture around the shaft portion 29P relative to the runner 26. The shaft portion 29P may be a pin that is fitted into the slider 70 and the runner 26.

[0100] With the slider 70 maintained in a constant position relative to the runner 26, the rod-shaped portion 72 moves forward and backward relative to the main cover 50, thereby changing the orientation of the pull-out member 50P relative to the runner 26 and the rail 22.

[0101] The side cover 60 is supported so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, with the side cover 60 covering the outside of the end of the main cover 50. The side cover 60 may be a molded part made of resin. The enclosure portion 62 is formed in a shape that can surround the end of the enclosure portion 54a from the outer circumference and can extend on the outer extension of the enclosure portion 54a in the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50.

[0102] More specifically, the side cover 60 includes an enclosure portion 62 and a wall portion 64.

[0103] The enclosure portion 62 includes a main plate portion 62a1 and an extended enclosure portion 62a2. The main plate portion 62a1 is formed in an elongated plate shape and can cover the outward-facing surface of the main plate portion 54a1. The main plate portion 54a1 may be formed to gradually narrow in width towards the longitudinal outward direction of the main cover 50.

[0104] The extended enclosure portion 62a2 curves from one edge of the main plate portion 62a1 towards one main surface of the main plate portion 62a1, and extends to the other edge of the main plate portion 62a1 while maintaining a distance from that main surface. The extended enclosure portion 62a2 can cover the outward-facing surface of the extended enclosure portion 54a2.

[0105] A space is formed between the main plate portion 62a1 and the extended enclosure portion 62a2 that can accommodate the end of the main cover 50 and the slider 70.

[0106] The inner surface of the enclosure portion 62 has a shape corresponding to the outward-facing surface of the enclosure portion 54a. Therefore, with at least a portion of the enclosure portion 62 covering the outward-facing surface of the enclosure portion 54a, the side cover 60 can move along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. In other words, the side cover 60 can move forward and backward relative to the main cover 50 while being guided by the outer circumferential surface of the main cover 50.

[0107] An intervening member 61 may be interposed on the inner surface of the enclosure portion 62. The intervening member 61 may be a member that reduces friction between the enclosure portion 62 and the enclosure portion 54a. The intervening member 61 may be fixed to the inner surface of the enclosure portion 62. The intervening member 61 may be, for example, felt or nonwoven fabric. The felt or nonwoven fabric reduces friction between the enclosure portion 62 and the enclosure portion 54a, allowing the enclosure portion 62 to move smoothly relative to the enclosure portion 54a. In addition, the felt or nonwoven fabric can prevent friction scratches on the enclosure portion 54a and suppress rattling noises between the enclosure portion 54a and the enclosure portion 62. The felt or nonwoven fabric may be fixed to the enclosure portion 62 with adhesive or double-sided tape. The intervening member 61 that prevents friction scratches and suppresses rattling noises may be, for example, rubber. If the intervening member 61 is made of rubber, the intervening member 61 and the side cover 60 may be molded using two-shot molding.

[0108] A slit 62aS is formed between the other edge of the main plate portion 62a1 and the tip edge of the extended enclosure portion 62a2, overlapping with the slit 54aS or located on an extension of the slit 54aS. The side of the screen 40 may pass through the slit 62aS.

[0109] The wall portion 64 is provided so as to straddle the longitudinal outer end of the main plate portion 62a1 and the longitudinal outer end of the extended enclosure portion 62a2. The wall portion 64 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50 and separates the space inside the enclosure portion 62 from the space outside it. The wall portion 64 may be located inside the outer edge of the enclosure portion 62.

[0110] A through-hole 64h is formed in the wall portion 64 through which the rod-shaped portion 72 passes. The rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 passes through the through-hole 64h, through the space enclosed by the enclosure portion 62, and is inserted into the insertion hole 56h of the main cover 50.

[0111] The slider 70 is configured to move the side cover 60 in the longitudinal direction as the main cover 50 moves along the longitudinal direction.

[0112] Here, the slider 70 is rotatable around the axis of the rod-shaped portion 72 relative to the side cover 60, but maintains a constant positional relationship with the side cover 60 in the longitudinal direction.

[0113] More specifically, the rod-shaped portion 72 has a retaining projection 73P. The retaining projection 73P is located away from the outer end of the rod-shaped portion 72. In other words, the retaining projection 73P is located away from the intermediate connecting portion 74. The distance between the retaining projection 73P and the intermediate connecting portion 74 is such that the wall portion 64 can be placed there, and may be, for example, greater than or equal to the thickness of the wall portion 64, and less than or equal to twice that thickness. The retaining projection 73P protrudes partially in the circumferential direction of the rod-shaped portion 72.

[0114] The through hole 64h has a partial recess 64hg in the circumferential direction that is partially recessed, allowing the retaining projection 73P to pass through. When the rod-shaped portion 72 is passed through the through hole 64h with the retaining projection 73P aligned with the partial recess 64hg in the circumferential direction of the through hole 64h, the retaining projection 73P can extend beyond the periphery of the through hole 64h and be positioned within the enclosure portion 62. When the retaining projection 73P is shifted away from the partial recess 64hg in the circumferential direction of the through hole 64h, the retaining projection 73P can catch on the periphery of the through hole 64h. This keeps the rod-shaped portion 72 from coming out of the through hole 64h.

[0115] In this embodiment, two anti-removal projections 73P are formed facing each other on the outer circumferential surface of the rod-shaped portion 72, and two partial recesses 64hg are formed facing each other on the periphery of the through hole 64h. The number of anti-removal projections 73P and partial recesses 64hg is arbitrary; there may be one or three or more.

[0116] In the usage state of the shade device 20 (the state in which the shade device 20 is assembled to the vehicle and used by the user), it is preferable that the retaining projection 73P is set in a position where it does not overlap with the partial recess 64hg within the range in which the slider 70 changes the orientation of the pull-out member 50P.

[0117] This point will be explained with reference to Figure 12. Specifically, the slider 70 moves forward and backward relative to the main cover 50, causing the main cover 50 to change its orientation relative to the slider 70. The orientation of the pull-out member 50P in the stored state is defined as the stored position. The orientation of the pull-out member 50P in the deployed state is defined as the deployed position. In Figure 12, the side cover 60 of the pull-out member 50P in the stored position is shown by a solid line. The side cover 60 in the deployed position is shown by a dashed-dot line.

[0118] When assembling the shade device 20, the rod-shaped portion 72 is inserted into the through hole 64h, and the retaining projection 73P is positioned at the location of the partial recess 64hg in the circumferential direction of the through hole 64h. By performing the above insertion operation before the slider 70's posture is constrained by the rail 22 and before the slider 70 is inserted into the insertion hole 56h, the posture constraints of the slider 70 relative to the side cover 60 can be reduced. Therefore, regardless of the storage and deployment postures, the rod-shaped portion 72 can pass through the through hole 64h such that the retaining projection 73P is positioned inside the wall portion 64 through the partial recess 64hg.

[0119] In the assembled state of the shade device 20, the slider 70 is connected to the runner 26 and inserted into the insertion hole 56h of the main cover 50.

[0120] In this state, the range of orientation changes of the pull-out member 50P relative to the slider 70 is limited to between the stored position and the deployed position. This orientation change range is set, for example, according to the shape of the spiral projection 56hp and the spiral groove 72g, and the range of movement of the slider 70.

[0121] Therefore, the retaining projection 73P is positioned outside the range R in which the partial recess 64hg may exist, within the range in which the slider 70 changes the orientation of the pull-out member 50P. As a result, in the normal use state by the user, the retaining projection 73P is positioned so as not to overlap with the partial recess 64hg within the range in which the main cover 50 changes its orientation.

[0122] As described above, with the rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 passing through the through hole 64h, the intermediate connecting portion 74 is positioned on the outside of the wall portion 64, and the retaining projection 73P is positioned on the inside.

[0123] Therefore, when the slider 70 moves toward the main cover 50, the intermediate connecting part 74 pushes against the outer surface of the wall part 64. As a result, the side cover 60 moves toward the main cover 50, and the length of the pull-out member 50P is shortened.

[0124] Conversely, when the slider 70 moves away from the main cover 50, the retaining projection 73P contacts the periphery of the through hole 64h at a position shifted from the partial recess 64hg, pushing against the inner surface of the wall portion 64. As a result, the side cover 60 moves away from the main cover 50, and the length of the pull-out member 50P increases.

[0125] <Explanation of the operation of the pull-out member accompanying the movement of the slider> Figure 13 is a diagram for illustrating the posture and length of the pull-out member 50P in the stored state and the extended state. The lower part of Figure 13 shows the pull-out member 50P in the stored state, and the upper part of Figure 13 shows the pull-out member 50P in the extended state.

[0126] The length of the drawer member 50P is adjusted according to the distance between the pair of rails 22. Therefore, the drawer member 50P in the extended state is shorter than the drawer member 50P in the retracted state.

[0127] Furthermore, the pull-out member 50P is positioned to a suitable orientation for covering the device in both the stored and unfolded states. In this embodiment, in the stored state, it is positioned to a suitable orientation for closing the slot 13h, in this case, a horizontal orientation. In the unfolded state, it is positioned to a suitable orientation for closing the gap between the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 and the window 10, in this case, an oblique orientation. The orientation of the pull-out member 50P may be understood as the orientation of the main plate portions 54a1 and 62a1.

[0128] By changing the state from the stored state to the deployed state, the runner 26 moves along the rail 22, and as a result, the slider 70 connected to the runner 26 moves toward the main cover 50 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The slider 70 pushes the side cover 60, causing the side cover 60 to move a distance L toward the main cover 50 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. In this state, the main cover 50 may maintain its position in the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50.

[0129] When the rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 is inserted into the insertion hole 56h, the spiral projection 56hp moves along the spiral groove 72g. As a result, the main cover 50 rotates around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion 72. The side cover 60 also rotates in sync with the main cover 50. Since the rod-shaped portion 72 passes through the through hole 64h of the side cover 60, the side cover 60 can rotate smoothly without interfering with the slider 70. As a result, the pull-out member 50P changes its orientation from a horizontal position PP1 to an oblique position PP2.

[0130] Conversely, by changing the state from the deployed state to the stored state, the runner 26 moves along the rail 22, and as a result, the slider 70 connected to the runner 26 moves to the outside of the main cover 50 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The side cover 60 is pushed by the retaining projection 73P of the slider 70, causing the side cover 60 to move to the outside of the main cover 50 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. The main cover 50 may maintain its position in the longitudinal direction.

[0131] When the rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 is pulled out from the insertion hole 56h, the spiral projection 56hp moves along the spiral groove 72g. As a result, the pull-out member 50P rotates in the opposite direction around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion 72. This changes the orientation of the pull-out member 50P from an oblique position PP2 to a horizontal position PP1. In this way, the movement of the slider 70 synchronizes the length adjustment and orientation change of the pull-out member 50P.

[0132] <Example of Manufacturing Process> An example of the manufacturing process for this shade device 20 will be explained below.

[0133] For example, as shown in Figure 14, the rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 is passed through the through-hole 64h of the side cover 60. At this time, the retaining projection 73P is aligned with the partial recess 64hg so that the retaining projection 73P passes through the partial recess 64hg and beyond the through-hole 64h to be positioned inside the wall portion 64. After this, when the slider 70 is rotated, the retaining projection 73P is positioned away from the partial recess 64hg, and the slider 70 is prevented from being removed from the through-hole 64h.

[0134] As shown in Figure 15, a separate main cover 50 is prepared, which is formed by combining the main body 52, the cover 54, and the slider holder 56.

[0135] Then, the side cover 60 is placed over the end of the main cover 50 from the longitudinal outside of the main cover 50, and the rod-shaped portion 72 of the slider 70 is inserted into the insertion hole 56h. At this time, the position of the slider 70 relative to the side cover 60 is set to a predetermined position suitable for the desired position change, and the rod-shaped portion 72 is inserted into the insertion hole 56h, and the spiral projection 56hp is fitted into the spiral groove 72g.

[0136] In this way, the side cover 60 and the slider 70 are assembled to both ends of the main cover 50.

[0137] Next, the intermediate connecting section 74 of the pair of sliders 70 is connected to the pair of runners 26. The pair of runners 26 are movably supported on the pair of rails 22 at both ends of the winding device 30, thereby manufacturing the shade device 20.

[0138] <Effects, etc.> With the shade device 20 configured as described above, the runner 26 moves along one of the pair of rails 22, which are arranged so that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base end 22a to the tip end 22b, causing the slider 70 to move along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50.

[0139] Here, the side cover 60 is supported at the end of the main cover 50 so as to change its orientation in sync with the orientation change of the main cover 50. The slider 70 is also connected to the end of the main cover 50 so as to change the orientation of the main cover 50 as it moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. Therefore, when the slider 70 moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the orientation of the main cover 50 and the side cover 60 can be changed. This makes it easy to change the orientation of the main cover 50 and the side cover 60 between an orientation that closes the slot 13h and an orientation that closes the gap between the screen 40 and the window 10.

[0140] Furthermore, as the slider 70 moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, it moves the side cover 60 along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50. Therefore, by moving the side cover 60 outward along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, the length of the pull-out member 50P can be easily adjusted according to the spacing between the pair of rails 22, and the slot 13h, which is the opening for pulling out the screen 40, can be easily closed.

[0141] Therefore, it is possible to properly close the slot 13h and properly close the gap between the leading edge 42 of the screen 40 and the window 10.

[0142] In this embodiment, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P is changed by moving a pair of sliders 70 at both ends of the pull-out member 50P. As a result, the orientation of the pull-out member 50P can be smoothly changed and its length can be adjusted.

[0143] Furthermore, the rod-shaped portion 72 has a retaining projection 73P, and the through hole 64h has a partial recess 64hg. Therefore, when the rod-shaped portion 72 is passed through the through hole 64h, the retaining projection 73P passes through the partial recess 64hg, allowing the retaining projection 73P to be positioned closer to the main cover 50 than the wall portion 64. In addition, the retaining projection 73P is set in a position that does not overlap with the partial recess 64hg within the range in which the slider 70 changes the orientation of the main cover 50. Therefore, in normal use by the user, when the slider 70 moves away from the main cover 50, the retaining projection 73P contacts the wall portion 64, allowing the side cover 60, including the wall portion 64, to move away from the main cover 50. This allows the slider 70 to be easily assembled to the main cover 50 via the side cover 60. Furthermore, a configuration in which the side cover 60 is moved by the slider 70 can be easily realized.

[0144] Furthermore, a spiral groove 72g is formed on one of the outer circumferences of the rod-shaped portion 72 and the inner circumference of the insertion hole 56h as a spiral guide, and a spiral projection 56hp is formed on the other as a guide receiving portion that moves along the spiral guide. As a result, the rod-shaped portion 72 moves back and forth relative to the insertion hole 56h, and the spiral projection 56hp moves along the spiral groove 72g, allowing the main cover 50 to smoothly change its orientation around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion 72.

[0145] Furthermore, the side cover 60 is supported so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover 50, while overlapping the outside of the end of the main cover 50. Therefore, it is not necessary to form a space inside the end of the main cover for the side cover to fit into, and the structure for supporting the movable side cover 60 can be simplified and miniaturized. For example, by making the inner surface of the side cover 60 conform to the shape of the outer surface of the end of the main cover 50, the side cover 60 can be supported so as to be movable at the end of the main cover 50. Also, since the structure for supporting the side cover 60 on the main cover 50 can be simplified, it is easier to incorporate a structure for connecting the slider 70 to the end of the main cover 50.

[0146] Furthermore, the main cover 50 has a combined structure of multiple parts, including a metal body 52, a resin cover 54, and a slider holder 56. Therefore, the metal body 52 makes it easier to ensure the rigidity of the main cover 50. The resin cover 54 also makes it easier to shape the main cover 50 to seal the gap between the screen 40 and the window 10, or to seal the slot 13h. Additionally, by making the slider holder 56 a separate part from the body 52 and cover 54, it is easier to realize a structure in which the slider 70 is movably connected. For example, it is easier to give the slider holder 56 a spiral shape.

[0147] {Modification} In this embodiment, an example is described in which the shade device 20 comprises a pair of side covers 60 and a pair of sliders 70. It is also conceivable that the shade device may be configured such that the side covers 60 and sliders 70 are assembled only on one end of the main cover 50.

[0148] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a spiral projection 56hp is formed in the insertion hole 56h and a spiral groove 72g is formed in the rod-shaped portion 72. The spiral relationship between the concave and concave parts may be reversed, and the spiral projection or groove may be formed in only one of the insertion hole or the rod-shaped portion.

[0149] For example, as shown in the first modified example in Figure 16, a screw groove 156hg may be formed in the insertion hole 156h corresponding to the insertion hole 56h as a screw guide, and a screw projection 172p may be formed in the rod-shaped portion 172 corresponding to the rod-shaped portion 72 as a guide receiving portion.

[0150] Furthermore, in the embodiment and the first modified example, the spiral protrusions and spiral grooves are shaped to partially protrude or recess from portions having the same radius of curvature, but they are not required to have such shapes.

[0151] As shown in the second modified example in Figure 17, the entire circumferential direction of the insertion hole 256h corresponding to the insertion hole 56h is flattened while forming a spiral, and the side edges of the flattened portion may form a spiral groove 256hg. In other words, the spiral groove 256hg may be a shape in which the most recessed parts in the circumferential direction of the insertion hole 256h are connected in a spiral.

[0152] Similarly, the entire circumferential direction of the rod-shaped portion 272 corresponding to the rod-shaped portion 72 may form a flattened shape while forming a spiral, and the side edges of the flattened portion may form a spiral projection 272p. In other words, the spiral projection 272p may be a shape in which the most protruding parts in the circumferential direction of the rod-shaped portion 272 are connected in a spiral shape.

[0153] In other words, the spiral protrusions and spiral grooves only need to be the parts that form a spiral, such as the most recessed or most protruding sections.

[0154] Furthermore, it is not essential that both the insertion hole and the rod-shaped portion have a helical projection and a helical groove. For example, a helical groove may be formed in either the insertion hole or the rod-shaped portion, and a partial, non-helical projection that can move along the helical groove may be formed in the other. Alternatively, a helical projection may be formed in either the insertion hole or the rod-shaped portion, and a partial, non-helical groove that can move along the helical projection may be formed in the other.

[0155] Furthermore, the spiral projections or grooves formed in the insertion hole or rod-shaped portion may be partial in the longitudinal direction of the insertion hole or rod-shaped portion. In this case, linear projections or grooves may be connected to other parts. For example, by making a part of the guide groove formed in the insertion hole spiral and the rest linear, and configuring the rod-shaped portion so that the partial projection moves along the guide groove, the range in which the main cover changes its orientation can be arbitrarily set.

[0156] In this case, for example, the range in which the main cover changes its orientation can be set to the range outside the longitudinal direction of the main cover, the range inside the range of movement of the side cover, or an intermediate range between these. In other words, the slider can change the orientation of the main cover during a certain period of the insertion process into the insertion hole.

[0157] Furthermore, the configurations described in the above embodiments and each of the modified examples can be combined as appropriate, as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0158] This embodiment discloses the following aspects.

[0159] The first embodiment is a shade device that switches between a retracted state and an deployed state by moving a pair of runners along a pair of guide rails arranged such that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base end to the tip end, comprising: a screen having a base edge and a tip edge opposite to the base edge, which unfolds between the pair of guide rails to cover the window from the inside of the vehicle; a winding device located on the base end side of the pair of guide rails and which winds up the screen from the base edge side; a main cover formed in an elongated shape extending along the tip edge and having the tip edge fixed; and a side cover supported at the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover. A shade device comprising: a slider connected to the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction, the side cover being supported at the end of the main cover so as to change its orientation in synchronization with the orientation change of the main cover, the slider moving toward or away from the main cover in accordance with the distance between the pair of guide rails as the pair of runners move, the slider being connected to the end of the main cover so as to change the orientation of the main cover as it moves along the longitudinal direction, and further, the slider moving along the longitudinal direction so as to move the side cover in the longitudinal direction.

[0160] In this shade device, the slider moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover as the runner moves along one of a pair of guide rails, which are arranged so that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base to the tip.

[0161] In this shade system, the side covers are supported at the ends of the main cover so that they change their orientation in sync with the change in the orientation of the main cover. Furthermore, the slider is connected to the ends of the main cover so that it changes the orientation of the main cover as it moves along its longitudinal direction. Therefore, when the slider moves along the longitudinal direction of the main cover, the orientation of both the main cover and the side covers can be changed. This makes it easier to change the orientation of the main cover and side covers to close the gap between the screen and the window.

[0162] Furthermore, in this shade device, the slider moves the side cover along the longitudinal direction of the main cover as the main cover moves along its longitudinal direction. Therefore, by moving the side cover outward along the longitudinal direction of the main cover, it is easier to close the opening for pulling out the screen.

[0163] The second embodiment is a shade device according to the first embodiment, wherein the slider has a rod-shaped portion extending from the outer longitudinal side of the main cover through the side cover toward the main cover, the side cover has a wall portion having a through hole through which the rod-shaped portion passes, the rod-shaped portion has a retaining projection that partially protrudes in the circumferential direction of the rod-shaped portion at a position away from the outer end of the rod-shaped portion, the through hole has a partial recess that is partially recessed in the circumferential direction to allow the passage of the retaining projection, and the retaining projection is set in a position where it does not overlap with the partial recess within the range in which the slider changes the orientation of the main cover.

[0164] In this case, when the rod-shaped portion is passed through the through-hole, the retaining projection passes through the partial recess, allowing the retaining projection to be positioned closer to the main cover than the wall. By setting the retaining projection to a position that does not overlap with the partial recess within the range in which the slider changes the orientation of the main cover, when the slider moves away from the main cover, the retaining projection contacts the wall, allowing the side cover, including the wall, to move away from the main cover. This allows the slider to be easily assembled to the main cover via the side cover. Furthermore, a configuration in which the side cover is moved by the slider can be easily realized.

[0165] A third embodiment is a shade device according to the first or second embodiment, wherein the slider has a rod-shaped portion extending from the outer longitudinal side of the main cover through the side cover toward the main cover, the main cover has an insertion hole through which the rod-shaped portion moves forward and backward as the slider moves along the longitudinal direction, a screw guide is formed on one of the outer circumference of the rod-shaped portion and the inner circumference of the insertion hole, and a guide receiving portion is formed on the other that moves along the screw guide, and as the slider moves along the longitudinal direction, the guide receiving portion moves along the screw guide, causing the main cover to change its orientation around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion.

[0166] In this case, the guide receiver moves along the spiral guide, allowing the main cover to smoothly change its orientation around the central axis of the rod-shaped section.

[0167] The fourth embodiment is a shade device according to any one of the first to third embodiments, wherein the side cover is supported so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction, with the side cover covering the outside of the end of the main cover.

[0168] In this case, the inner surface of the side cover is shaped to match the outer surface of the main cover's edge, and it is easy to incorporate a structure that connects the slider to the edge of the main cover.

[0169] A fifth embodiment is a shade device relating to any one of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the main cover includes a metal body portion extending along the front edge, a resin cover portion extending along the front edge and covering at least a portion of the outer circumference of the body portion, and a slider holder supported at the end of the body portion and to which the slider is movably connected.

[0170] In this case, the metal body makes it easier to ensure the rigidity of the main cover. Furthermore, the resin cover makes it easier to shape the main cover to seal the gap between the screen and the window, or to seal the opening for pulling out the screen. Additionally, by making the slider holder a separate part from the body and cover, it is easier to create a structure in which the slider is movably connected.

[0171] The above description is illustrative in all respects, and the invention is not limited thereto. It is understood that countless variations not illustrated can be conceivable without falling outside the scope of this invention.

[0172] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-168833, filed on 27 September 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A shade device that switches between a retracted state and an deployed state by the movement of a pair of runners along a pair of guide rails arranged such that the distance between them gradually decreases from the base end to the tip end, comprising: a screen having a base edge and a tip edge opposite to the base edge, which unfolds between the pair of guide rails to cover the window from the inside of the vehicle; a winding device located on the base end side of the pair of guide rails and winding up the screen from the base edge side; a main cover formed in an elongated shape extending along the tip edge, with the tip edge fixed; a side cover supported at the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the main cover; and a slider connected to the end of the main cover so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction, wherein the side cover is supported at the end of the main cover so as to change its orientation in synchronization with the orientation change of the main cover, and the slider moves toward and away from the main cover in accordance with the distance between the pair of guide rails as the pair of runners move. The slider is connected to the end of the main cover so as it moves along the longitudinal direction, it changes the posture of the main cover, and the slider further moves the side cover along the longitudinal direction as it moves along the longitudinal direction, a shade device.

2. A shade device according to claim 1, wherein the slider has a rod-shaped portion extending from the outer longitudinal side of the main cover through the side cover toward the main cover, the side cover has a wall portion having a through hole through which the rod-shaped portion passes, the rod-shaped portion has a retaining projection that partially protrudes in the circumferential direction of the rod-shaped portion at a position away from the outer end of the rod-shaped portion, the through hole has a partial recess that is partially recessed in the circumferential direction to allow the passage of the retaining projection, and the retaining projection is set in a position such that it does not overlap with the partial recess within the range in which the slider changes the orientation of the main cover.

3. A shade device according to claim 1, wherein the slider has a rod-shaped portion extending from the outer side of the main cover in the longitudinal direction, through the side cover, toward the main cover, the main cover has an insertion hole through which the rod-shaped portion moves forward and backward as the slider moves along the longitudinal direction, a screw guide is formed on one of the outer circumference of the rod-shaped portion and the inner circumference of the insertion hole, and a guide receiving portion is formed on the other that moves along the screw guide, and as the slider moves along the longitudinal direction, the guide receiving portion moves along the screw guide, causing the main cover to change its orientation around the central axis of the rod-shaped portion.

4. A shade device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the side cover is supported so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction, with the side cover covering the outside of the end of the main cover.

5. A shade device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the main cover comprises: a metal body portion extending along the tip edge; a resin cover portion extending along the tip edge and covering at least a portion of the outer circumference of the body portion; and a slider holder supported at the end of the body portion and to which the slider is movably connected.

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