U.S. patent application number 14/905714 was filed with the patent office on 2016-09-22 for curtain accessory.
This patent application is currently assigned to TACHIKAWA CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is TACHIKAWA CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Takenobu EBATO, Tatsuya EGAMI, Sigeharu MATSUO, Tadashi OKAMURA, Koui TACHIKAWA, Yoshihiro TAKAYAMA, Kazuto YAMAGISHI, Masaya YAMAGUCHI.
Application Number | 20160270578 14/905714 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52346247 |
Filed Date | 2016-09-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160270578 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TACHIKAWA; Koui ; et
al. |
September 22, 2016 |
CURTAIN ACCESSORY
Abstract
To improve the safety of a curtain accessory for bunching a
curtain. A curtain accessory for bunching a curtain includes at
least one of members consisting of a tassel, a tassel hook, and a
tassel auxiliary part for ensuring safety when attaching the tassel
to the tassel hook. A coupling mechanism is disposed on the at
least one member or between the adjacent members. The coupling
mechanism is configured in such a manner that, when a load applied
to the tassel exceeds a predetermined value, the coupling mechanism
is decoupled, as well as can be recoupled after decoupled.
Inventors: |
TACHIKAWA; Koui; (Tokyo,
JP) ; YAMAGISHI; Kazuto; (Tokyo, JP) ; MATSUO;
Sigeharu; (Tokyo, JP) ; YAMAGUCHI; Masaya;
(Tokyo, JP) ; EGAMI; Tatsuya; (Tokyo, JP) ;
EBATO; Takenobu; (Tokyo, JP) ; TAKAYAMA;
Yoshihiro; (Tokyo, JP) ; OKAMURA; Tadashi;
(Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TACHIKAWA CORPORATION |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
TACHIKAWA CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
52346247 |
Appl. No.: |
14/905714 |
Filed: |
July 16, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
July 16, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2014/068940 |
371 Date: |
May 4, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A44B 99/005 20130101;
E06B 9/326 20130101; A47H 19/00 20130101; E06B 2009/3265
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47H 19/00 20060101
A47H019/00; A44B 99/00 20060101 A44B099/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 18, 2013 |
JP |
2013-149983 |
Sep 30, 2013 |
JP |
2013-206011 |
Oct 16, 2013 |
JP |
2013-215878 |
Oct 16, 2013 |
JP |
2013-215879 |
Nov 7, 2013 |
JP |
2013-231570 |
Feb 4, 2014 |
JP |
2014-019560 |
Claims
1-26. (canceled)
27. A curtain accessory for bunching a curtain, comprising: at
least one of a tassel, a tassel hook, and a tassel auxiliary part
for ensuring safety when attaching the tassel to the tassel hook,
wherein a coupling mechanism is disposed on the at least one member
or between the adjacent members, and the coupling mechanism is
configured in such a manner that, when a load applied to the tassel
exceeds a predetermined value, the coupling mechanism is decoupled,
as well as can be recoupled after decoupled.
28. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the tassel or the
tassel auxiliary part is provided with a circular part, and the
coupling mechanism comprises a separation part configured to
separate the circular part to make the circular part
noncircular.
29. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the coupling
mechanism comprises a separation part configured to separate the
tassel or the tassel auxiliary part from adjacent another member by
a pulling force.
30. The curtain accessory of claim 29, wherein the tassel auxiliary
part comprises an insertion part into which a looped tassel cord of
the tassel can be inserted, and the separation part comprises a
clip configured to sandwich the tassel hook.
31. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the coupling
mechanism is covered by a hiding member or a decoration member.
32. The curtain accessory of claim 28, wherein the curtain
accessory comprises both the tassel and the tassel auxiliary part,
the separation part is disposed on the tassel auxiliary part, a
looped tassel cord to which the tassel auxiliary part is locked is
disposed on one edge of the tassel, the looped tassel cord being
configured in such a manner that the looped tassel cord cannot be
hooked on the tassel hook, and another looped tassel cord to be
hooked on the tassel hook is disposed on another edge of the
tassel.
33. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the coupling
mechanism comprises a separation part that separates the tassel
hook into a plurality of portions by an external force.
34. The curtain accessory of claim 33, wherein the tassel hook
comprises a base to be fixed to a fixing standing surface, a
protruding shaft protruding from the base, and a hooking part which
is supported by the protruding shaft and on which the tassel or the
tassel auxiliary part is to be hooked, and the separation part is
disposed between the protruding shaft and the hooking part.
35. The curtain accessory of claim 34, wherein the tassel hook has
a slope which is inclined so as to be lowered toward a trigger
disposed on the separation part, and the coupling mechanism is
decoupled when the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part contacts the
trigger and applies a force to the trigger.
36. The curtain accessory of claim 33, wherein the tassel hook
comprises a base to be fixed to a fixing standing surface, a
protruding shaft protruding from the base, and a hooking part which
is supported by the protruding shaft and on which the tassel or the
tassel auxiliary part is to be hooked, and the separation part is
disposed between the base and the protruding shaft.
37. The curtain accessory of claim 36, wherein a holding cord is
disposed between the base and the protruding shaft, wherein the
holding cord is configured to hold the hooking part so that the
hooking part is prevented from falling down even when the coupling
mechanism is decouple.
38. The curtain accessory of claim 33, wherein the tassel hook
comprises a mount to be fixed to a fixing standing surface, a base
to be locked to the mount, a protruding shaft protruding from the
base, and a hooking part which is supported by the protruding shaft
and on which the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part is to be
hooked, and the separation part is disposed between the base and
the mount.
39. The curtain accessory of claim 38, wherein the mount comprises
a base locking part for locking the base and a slide groove along
which the base is to slide approximately vertically, and when the
tassel or the tassel auxiliary part contacts the protruding shaft
or the hooking part and applies a force to the protruding shaft or
the hooking part, the base slides down along the slide groove, and
the coupling mechanism is decoupled.
40. The curtain accessory of claim 27, further comprising holding
means configured to hold at least one or a part thereof of the
members consisting of the tassel, the tassel hook, and the tassel
auxiliary part, the at least one member or the part thereof being
prevented from falling down when the coupling mechanism is coupled,
so that the at least one member or the part thereof is prevented
from falling on a floor even when the coupling mechanism is
decoupled.
41. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the coupling
mechanism has a fitting structure.
42. The curtain accessory of claim 41, wherein the fitting
structure is a rotating fitting structure and is configured in such
a manner that the fitting structure can be refitted after decoupled
by rotating the fitting structure manually.
43. The curtain accessory of claim 27, wherein the curtain
accessory comprises the tassel hook, the coupling mechanism is a
displacement mechanism configured to displace a structure of the
tassel hook, and the displacement mechanism is configured in such a
manner that, when a load applied to the tassel hook through the
tassel exceeds a predetermined value, the displacement mechanism
displaces the structure of the tassel hook to unlock the tassel
and, after unlocking the tassel, can restore the displaced
structure to an original state to lock the tassel to the tassel
hook again.
44. The curtain accessory of claim 43, wherein the tassel hook
comprises a base to be fixed to a fixing standing surface and a
rotating hook having a hooking part, and the displacement mechanism
is configured to, when a load applied to the rotating hook through
the tassel exceeds a predetermined value, causes the rotating hook
to rotate relative to the base so as to drop the tassel.
45. The curtain accessory of claim 44, wherein the displacement
mechanism has an opening hole which is formed in the base and into
which the rotating hook can be inserted and a rotating mechanism
that is disposed in the opening hole of the base and rotatably
supports the rotating hook.
46. The curtain accessory of claim 43, wherein the displacement
mechanism further comprises energizing means configured to energize
the rotating hook so that the rotating hook is rotated in a reverse
direction after the tassel is dropped.
47. The curtain accessory of claim 46, wherein the energizing means
is a weight disposed on the rotating hook, and the rotating hook is
configured to rotate about a rotating shaft disposed between the
hooking part and the weight.
48. The curtain accessory of claim 44, wherein the displacement
mechanism comprises a rotation regulation mechanism configured to
regulate rotation of the rotating hook when a load applied to the
hooking part is equal to or less than a predetermined value.
49. The curtain accessory of claim 48, wherein the rotation
regulation mechanism comprises a rotating hook-side locking part
disposed on the rotating hook and a base-side locking part, wherein
the base-side locking part is configured to, when the load applied
to the hooking part is equal to or less than the predetermined
value, contacts the rotating hook-side locking part to regulate the
rotation of the rotating hook.
50. The curtain accessory of claim 43, wherein the tassel hook
comprises a base to be fixed to a fixing standing surface, a
protruding shaft protruding from the base, and a hooking part which
is supported by the protruding shaft and on which the tassel is to
be hooked, the displacement mechanism comprises a hinge connecting
the protruding shaft and the hooking part and elastic means
configured to hold the protruding shaft and the hooking part in
such a manner that the protruding shaft and the hooking part form
an angle in a predetermined range at the hinge, and the
displacement mechanism is configured to, when the load applied to
the hooking part through the tassel exceeds the predetermined
value, increase the angle at the hinge to drop the tassel.
51. The curtain accessory of claim 50, wherein the elastic means
comprises a flat spring or a torsion spring.
52. The curtain accessory of any one of claim 27, wherein the
coupling mechanism is configured to be decoupled when the load
applied to the tassel exceeds 2 kgf.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a curtain accessory for
bunching a curtain.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] A tassel hook, on which a tassel for bunching a curtain is
hooked, is typically fixed, as disclosed in Patent Literature 1.
Also, loop strings are typically attached to both edges of a tassel
band of a curtain in such a manner that the loop strings are
prevented from slipping off the tassel main body, as disclosed in
Patent Literature 2.
CITATION LIST
Patent Literature
[0003] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
Publication No. 11-169284
[0004] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
Publication No. 2012-165993
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Technical Problem
[0005] However, the conventional technologies disclosed in the
above Literatures have room for improvement in the following
respects.
[0006] For the tassel hook disclosed in Patent Literature 1, a
tassel holder thereof is fixed and therefore does not come off even
when a strong force is applied thereto. Accordingly, when a tassel
is hooked on this tassel hook and forms a loop, a foreign object
may be caught on the loop, causing a safety problem.
[0007] For the tassel disclosed in Patent Literature 2, the loop
strings are fixed to the tassel main body and therefore does not
become detached even when a string force is applied thereto.
Accordingly, when the tassel is hooked on a tassel hook using these
loop strings and forms a loop, a foreign object may be caught on
the loop, causing a safety problem.
[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the
foregoing, and an object thereof is to provide a technology that
improves the safety of a curtain accessory for bunching a
curtain.
Solution to Problem
[0009] The present invention provides a curtain accessory for
bunching a curtain. The curtain accessory includes at least one of
members consisting of a tassel, a tassel hook, and a tassel
auxiliary part for ensuring safety when attaching the tassel to the
tassel hook. A coupling mechanism is disposed on the at least one
member or between the adjacent members. The coupling mechanism is
configured in such a manner that, when a load applied to the tassel
exceeds a predetermined value, the coupling mechanism is decoupled,
as well as can be recoupled after decoupled. In the present
description, the term "curtain accessory" may refer to an single
member, such as a tassel alone, a tassel hook alone, or a tassel
auxiliary part alone, or may refer to two members, such as a
combination of a tassel hook and a tassel auxiliary part, or may
refer to three members, such as a combination of a tassel, a tassel
hook, and a tassel auxiliary part. The term "decoupled" includes
the meaning that a specific area in a member is relatively rotated,
or deformed and thus a tassel is allowed to drop off a tassel hook,
as in seventh and eighth embodiments. In this case, the term
"recoupled" means that the relatively rotated or deformed area is
restored to its original state and thus the tassel hook is allowed
to hold the tassel again.
[0010] According to this configuration, when the load applied to
the tassel exceeds the predetermined value, the tassel is
decoupled. Thus, a curtain accessory having high safety can be
obtained.
[0011] Various embodiments of the present invention are described
below. The embodiments below can be combined with each other.
[0012] Preferably, the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part is
provided with a circular part, and the coupling mechanism includes
a separation part configured to separate the circular part to make
the circle noncircular.
[0013] Preferably, the coupling mechanism includes a separation
part configured to separate the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part
from adjacent another member by a pulling force.
[0014] Preferably, the tassel auxiliary part includes an insertion
part into which a looped tassel cord of the tassel can be inserted,
and the separation part includes a clip configured to sandwich the
tassel hook.
[0015] Preferably, the coupling mechanism is covered by a hiding
member or a decoration member.
[0016] Preferably, the curtain accessory includes both the tassel
and the tassel auxiliary part, the separation part is disposed on
the tassel auxiliary part, a looped tassel cord to which the tassel
auxiliary part is locked is disposed on one edge of the tassel, the
looped tassel cord being configured in such a manner that the
looped tassel cord cannot be hooked on the tassel hook, and another
looped tassel cord to be hooked on the tassel hook is disposed on
another edge of the tassel.
[0017] Preferably, the coupling mechanism includes a separation
part that separates the tassel hook into multiple portions by an
external force.
[0018] Preferably, the tassel hook includes a base to be fixed to a
fixing standing surface, a protruding shaft protruding from the
base, and a hooking part which is supported by the protruding shaft
and on which the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part is to be
hooked, and
[0019] the separation part is disposed between the protruding shaft
and the hooking part.
[0020] Preferably, the tassel hook has a slope which is inclined so
as to be lowered toward a trigger disposed on the separation part,
and the coupling mechanism is decoupled when the tassel or the
tassel auxiliary part contacts the trigger and applies a force
thereto.
[0021] Preferably, the tassel hook includes a base to be fixed to a
fixing standing surface, a protruding shaft protruding from the
base, and a hooking part which is supported by the protruding shaft
and on which the tassel or the tassel auxiliary part is to be
hooked, and the separation part is disposed between the base and
the protruding shaft.
[0022] Preferably, a holding cord configured to hold the hooking
part so that the hooking part is prevented from falling down even
when the coupling mechanism is decoupled is disposed between the
base and the protruding shaft.
[0023] Preferably, the tassel hook includes a mount to be fixed to
a fixing standing surface, a base to be locked to the mount, a
protruding shaft protruding from the base, and a hooking part which
is supported by the protruding shaft and on which the tassel or the
tassel auxiliary part is to be hooked, and the separation part is
disposed between the base and the mount.
[0024] Preferably the mount includes a base locking part for
locking the base and a slide groove along which the base is to
slide approximately vertically, and when the tassel or the tassel
auxiliary part contacts the protruding shaft or the hooking part
and applies a force thereto, the base slides down along the slide
groove, and the coupling mechanism is decoupled.
[0025] Preferably, the curtain accessory further includes holding
means configured to hold at least one or a part thereof of the
members consisting of the tassel, the tassel hook, and the tassel
auxiliary part, the at least one member or the part thereof being
prevented from falling down when the coupling mechanism is coupled,
so that the at least one member or the part thereof is prevented
from falling on a floor even when the coupling mechanism is
decoupled.
[0026] Preferably, the coupling mechanism has a fitting
structure.
[0027] Preferably, the fitting structure is a rotating fitting
structure and is configured in such a manner that the fitting
structure can be refitted after decoupled by rotating the fitting
structure manually.
[0028] Preferably, the curtain accessory includes the tassel hook,
the coupling mechanism is a displacement mechanism configured to
displace a structure of the tassel hook, and the displacement
mechanism is configured in such a manner that, when a load applied
to the tassel hook through the tassel exceeds a predetermined
value, the decoration member displaces the structure of the tassel
hook to unlock the tassel and, after unlocking the tassel, can
restore the displaced structure to an original state to lock the
tassel to the tassel hook again.
[0029] Preferably, the tassel hook includes a base to be fixed to a
fixing standing surface and a rotating hook having a hooking part,
and the displacement mechanism is configured to, when a load
applied to the rotating hook through the tassel exceeds a
predetermined value, causes the rotating hook to rotate relative to
the base so as to drop the tassel.
[0030] Preferably, the displacement mechanism has an opening hole
which is formed in the base and into which the rotating hook can be
inserted and a rotating mechanism that is disposed in the opening
hole of the base and rotatably supports the rotating hook.
[0031] Preferably, the displacement mechanism further includes
energizing means configured to energize the rotating hook so that
the rotating hook is rotated in a reverse direction after the
tassel is dropped.
[0032] Preferably, the energizing means is a weight disposed on the
rotating hook, and the rotating hook is configured to rotate about
a rotating shaft disposed between the hooking part and the
weight.
[0033] Preferably, the displacement mechanism includes a rotation
regulation mechanism configured to regulate rotation of the
rotating hook when a load applied to the hooking part is equal to
or less than a predetermined value.
[0034] Preferably, the rotation regulation mechanism includes a
rotating hook-side locking part disposed on the rotating hook and a
base-side locking part configured to, when the load applied to the
hooking part is equal to or less than the predetermined value,
contacts the rotating hook-side locking part to regulate the
rotation of the rotating hook.
[0035] Preferably, the tassel hook includes a base to be fixed to a
fixing standing surface, a protruding shaft protruding from the
base, and a hooking part which is supported by the protruding shaft
and on which the tassel is to be hooked, the displacement mechanism
includes a hinge connecting the protruding shaft and the hooking
part and elastic means configured to hold the protruding shaft and
the hooking part in such a manner that the protruding shaft and the
hooking part form an angle in a predetermined range at the hinge,
and the displacement mechanism is configured to, when the load
applied to the hooking part through the tassel exceeds the
predetermined value, increase the angle at the hinge to drop the
tassel.
[0036] Preferably, the elastic means includes a flat spring or a
torsion spring.
[0037] Preferably, the elastic means includes a flat spring or a
torsion spring.
[0038] Preferably, the coupling mechanism is configured to be
decoupled when the load applied to the tassel exceeds 2 kgf.
Advantageous Effects of Invention
[0039] According to the present invention, a curtain accessory
having high safety can be obtained.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] FIG. 1 includes diagrams showing the structure and use
aspect of a tassel auxiliary part of a first embodiment which can
be attached to an existing tassel hook or a tassel.
[0041] FIG. 2 includes diagrams showing a mechanism in which
application of a predetermined load to the tassel auxiliary part of
the first embodiment separates a separation part of the tassel
auxiliary part, unloops the looped tassel auxiliary part, and
detaches one tassel cord of the tassel from the tassel hook.
[0042] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a separation
part of a tassel auxiliary part of a modification 1 of the first
embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a separation
part of a tassel auxiliary part of a modification 2 of the first
embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a tassel auxiliary part of a
modification 3 of the first embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a modification 4 of the present
embodiment in which a fall prevention collar 160 is disposed on a
tassel auxiliary part 100.
[0046] FIG. 7(a) is a diagram showing an appearance of a clip-type
tassel auxiliary part of a second embodiment, and FIGS. 7(b) and
7(c) are diagrams showing the inner structure and operation of this
tassel auxiliary part.
[0047] FIG. 8 shows a tassel auxiliary part of a third embodiment,
in which FIG. 8(a) shows a state in which the tassel auxiliary part
is attached to a tassel cord; and FIGS. 8(b) and 8(c) are an
enlarged sectional view or perspective view of a coupling part of
the tassel auxiliary part.
[0048] FIG. 9 includes diagrams showing a configuration in which a
separation part that can be separated by a predetermined pulling
force is disposed on a looped tassel cord of a tassel of a fourth
embodiment, in which FIG. 9(a) is an overall view of the tassel;
and FIG. 9(b) is an enlarged sectional view of the separation part
disposed on the tassel cord.
[0049] FIG. 10 includes diagrams showing a mechanism in which when
a predetermined pulling force is applied to the separation part
disposed on the looped tassel cord of the tassel of the fourth
embodiment, the tassel cord is unlooped, and the tassel hangs
down.
[0050] FIG. 11 includes diagrams showing a separation part built-in
type tassel of a modification 1 of the fourth embodiment.
[0051] FIGS. 12(a) to 12(c) are diagrams showing a mechanism in
which when a predetermined pulling force is applied to a separation
part disposed on a looped tassel cord of a tassel (a string-type
modification having a knot) of a modification 2 of the fourth
embodiment, the tassel cord is unlooped, and the tassel hangs down
or falls, and FIG. 12(d) shows a modification including a
relatively elongated separation part.
[0052] FIG. 13 includes diagrams showing a mechanism in which when
a predetermined pulling force is applied to a separation part
disposed on a looped tassel cord of a tassel (a string-type
modification in which a separation part is disposed in a decoration
member) of a modification 3 of the fourth embodiment, the tassel
cord is unlooped, and the tassel hangs down or falls.
[0053] FIG. 14 includes diagram showing the configuration of a
tassel hook of an embodiment 5-1 in which a separation part which
can be separated by a predetermined pulling force is disposed
between a protruding shaft and a hooking part.
[0054] FIG. 15 includes diagrams showing the configuration of a
tassel hook of an embodiment 5-2 (including a modification
incorporating a holding cord that prevents a protruding shaft from
falling when the protruding shaft is separated) in which a
separation part which can be separated by a predetermined pulling
force is disposed between a base and protruding shaft.
[0055] FIG. 16 includes diagrams showing the configuration of a
tassel hook of a sixth embodiment (vertical slide-type
modification) in which a separation part which can be separated by
a predetermined pulling force is disposed between a base and a
mount.
[0056] FIG. 17 includes diagrams showing the configurations of a
base and a mount of the tassel hook (vertical slide-type
modification) of the sixth embodiment using perspective views.
[0057] FIG. 18 includes diagrams showing an aspect in which a
tassel hook of a seventh embodiment is used with an existing
tassel.
[0058] FIG. 19 is a structure diagram showing the structure of an
existing tassel.
[0059] FIG. 20 includes structure diagrams showing a balance-type
displacement mechanism of the tassel hook of the seventh
embodiment.
[0060] FIG. 21 includes structure diagrams showing a balance-type
displacement mechanism of a tassel hook of a modification 1 the
seventh embodiment.
[0061] FIG. 22 includes sectional views showing the configuration
of a tassel hook of a modification 2 of the seventh embodiment, in
which FIG. 22(a) shows a state before a load exceeding a threshold
is applied to a rotating hook 203; FIG. 22(b) shows a state after
the load exceeding the threshold is applied to the rotating hook
203; and FIG. 22(c) shows a state after the load on the rotating
hook 203 is removed.
[0062] FIG. 23 shows the configuration of a base 202 of the
modification 2 of the seventh embodiment, in which FIG. 23(a) is a
rear view; FIG. 23(b) is an A-A sectional view in FIG. 23 (a); FIG.
23(c) is a front view; and FIG. 23(d) is a bottom view.
[0063] FIG. 24 shows the configuration of a rotating hook 203 of
the modification 2 of the seventh embodiment, in which FIG. 23(a)
is a rear view; FIG. 23(b) is a left side view; and FIG. 23(c) is a
front view.
[0064] FIG. 25 is a rear view showing a state in which the rotating
hook 203 is attached to the base 202 in the modification 2 of the
seventh embodiment.
[0065] FIG. 26 includes perspective views showing the configuration
of a tassel hook of a modification 3 of the seventh embodiment, in
which FIG. 26(a) shows a state before a load exceeding a threshold
is applied to a rotating hook 203; and FIG. 26(b) shows a state
after the load exceeding the threshold is applied to the rotating
hook 203.
[0066] FIGS. 27(a) and 27(b) are perspective views showing a state
in which the rotating hook 203 is detached from a base 202 in the
modification 3 of the seventh embodiment.
[0067] FIG. 28(a) is a perspective view showing a state in which
locking members 31a and 31b and a coil spring 35 are detached from
the rotating hook 203 in the modification 3 of the seventh
embodiment, and FIG. 28(b) is a rear view of the tassel hook of the
modification 3 of the seventh embodiment.
[0068] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the locking members 31a and
31b of the modification 3 of the seventh embodiment.
[0069] FIG. 30 includes structure diagrams showing a hinge-type
displacement mechanism of a tassel hook of an eighth
embodiment.
[0070] FIG. 31 includes diagrams showing an aspect in which the
tassel hook of the eighth embodiment is used with an existing
tassel.
[0071] FIG. 32 includes structure diagrams showing a hinge-type
displacement mechanism of a tassel hook of a modification 1 of the
eighth embodiment.
[0072] FIG. 33 includes structure diagrams showing the hinge-type
displacement mechanism of the tassel hook of the modification 1 of
the eighth embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0073] Now, embodiments of the present invention will be described
with reference to the drawings. Like elements are given like
reference signs throughout the drawings and description thereof
will be omitted as appropriate.
First Embodiment
A Looped Tassel Auxiliary Part
[0074] FIG. 1 includes diagrams showing the structure and use
aspect of a tassel auxiliary part 100 of the present embodiment
which can be attached to an existing tassel hook 200 or a tassel
300. FIG. 2 includes diagrams showing a mechanism in which
application of a predetermined load to the tassel auxiliary part
100 of the present embodiment separates a separation part 114 of
the tassel auxiliary part 100, unloops the looped tassel auxiliary
part 100, and detaches one tassel cord of the tassel 300 from the
tassel hook 200.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 2(a), a curtain accessory 1000 of the
present embodiment is an accessory for bunching a curtain 1100. As
shown in FIG. 2(a), the curtain accessory 1000 includes three
members: the tassel 300, tassel hook 200, and tassel auxiliary part
100. As will be discussed later, the tassel auxiliary part 100 is
an auxiliary part for ensuring safety when the tassel 300 is
attached to the tassel hook 200.
[0076] Note that a set of the three members need not necessarily be
sold as the curtain accessory 1000. That is, the curtain accessory
1000 only has to include at least one (e.g., the tassel auxiliary
part 100) of the three members. Since the tassel auxiliary part 100
shown in FIG. 2(a) can be attached to an existing tassel hook or
tassel, it may be sold alone as the curtain accessory 1000.
[0077] In the curtain accessory 1000 of the present embodiment, a
coupling mechanism [e.g., the separation part 114 shown in FIG.
1(a)] is disposed on at least one (e.g., the tassel auxiliary part
100) of the three members, or between adjacent members (a specific
example will be described later). As shown in FIG. 2(b), the
coupling mechanism (e.g., the separation part 114) is decoupled
when a load applied to the tassel 300 becomes equal to or more than
a predetermined value. This coupling mechanism (e.g., the
separation part 114) is configured in such a manner that it can be
recoupled after decoupled.
[0078] In the curtain accessory 1000 of the present embodiment, the
tassel 300 or tassel auxiliary part 100 is provided with a circular
part [e.g., a loop formed by a cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary
part 100 shown in FIG. 1(a)]. The coupling mechanism includes the
separation part 114 that separates the circular part [e.g., the
loop formed by the tassel auxiliary part 100 shown in FIG. 2(a)] to
make the tassel auxiliary part 100 noncircular [e.g., the tassel
auxiliary part 100 in the shape of a linear string shown in FIG.
2(b)].
[0079] In the curtain accessory 1000 of the present embodiment, the
coupling mechanism is preferably a separation part 114 having a
fitting structure, as shown in FIG. 1(b). The separation part 114
in FIG. 1(b) consists of a male member (first coupling member) 115
and a female member (second coupling member) 116 molded from a
synthetic resin. The female member 116 is formed in a tubular shape
and has a locking groove 117 circumferentially formed on the inner
peripheral surface of the front end thereof.
[0080] The female member 116 has, in the base end thereof, an
insertion hole 118 into which a cord 111a can be inserted. The cord
111a is attached to the female member 116 by inserting an end of
the cord 111a into the insertion hole 118 from the base end side of
the female member 116, mounting a swaging member 119 on the end of
the cord 111a, and swaging the swaging member 119 so that it
contacts a peripheral portion of the insertion hole 118 in the
female member 116, as shown in FIG. 1(b). Thus, the end of the cord
111a is held in the female member 116.
[0081] The male member 115 is attached to an end of a cord 111b by
outsert molding. Specifically, the male member 115 is formed by
performing outsert molding on the single cord 111b at predetermined
intervals. Also, by cutting the cord 111b at the front end of the
molded male member 115, the cord 111b having the male member 115
attached to an end thereof and having a predetermined length is
formed. The other end of the cord 111b is attached to the female
member 116, as described above.
[0082] The front end of the male member 115 is formed with a
diameter that allows the front end can be fitted into the front end
of the female member 116. A protrusion 120 engageable with the
locking groove 117 is circumferentially formed on the outer
peripheral surface of the front end of the male member 115.
[0083] When the front end of the male member 115 is fitted into the
front end of the female member 116, the protrusion 120 is
elastically engaged with the locking groove 117. In this state,
when a force equal to or more than a predetermined value
(preferably, more than 2 kgf) is applied to the male member 115 and
female member 116 in a direction in which both are separated from
each other, the male member 115 and female member 116 are detached
from each other.
[0084] As seen above, the tassel auxiliary part 100 includes the
cord 111, whose ends are connected by the separation part 114. As
shown in FIG. 2(a), the cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part 100
forms a loop and indirectly locks the tassel 300 to the tassel hook
200. In this state, for example, if a dweller or the like is caught
on the tassel 300 or if undue force is applied to the tassel 300
through the curtain, a pulling force 500 is applied to the tassel
auxiliary part 100. Thus, as shown in FIG. 2(b), the male member
115 and female member 116 of the separation part 114 are detached
from each other, so that the tassel auxiliary part 100 is unlooped
(noncircular) and falls on the floor.
[0085] The tassel auxiliary part 100 including the separation part
114 configured thus can produce the following effects.
[0086] (1) For example, if a dweller or the like is caught on the
tassel 300 or if undue force is applied to the tassel 300 through
the curtain, a force equal to or more than a predetermined value is
applied to the male member 115 and female member 116 of the
separation part 114 of the tassel auxiliary part 100 in a direction
in which both are separated from each other. Thus, the male member
115 and female member 116 are detached from each other.
Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the dweller or the like from
being injured when caused on the tassel 300.
[0087] (2) The tassel auxiliary part 100 can be attached to an
existing tassel hook 200 or tassel 300. Thus, the safety of the
curtain accessory can be improved cheaply and easily without having
to buy a new tassel hook 200 or tassel 300 or perform additional
construction.
<Separation Part of Tassel Auxiliary Part of Modification 1 of
First Embodiment>
[0088] The separation part 114 need not necessarily have the
structure shown in FIG. 1(b) and may have any other structure. FIG.
3 is an exploded perspective view showing a separation part of a
tassel auxiliary part of a modification of the first embodiment.
That is, the separation part 114 of the tassel auxiliary part 100
may be a coupling part 16 having a fitting structure as shown in
FIG. 3. The fitting structure of the coupling part 16 is a type of
rotating fitting structure. For this reason, the members of the
coupling part 16 can be refitted together after detached from each
other by rotating them manually.
[0089] As shown in FIG. 3, the coupling part 16 consists of a first
coupling member 27 and a second coupling member 28. In the first
coupling member 27, a first fitting part 29 is formed on one end of
a cord 19 from a synthetic resin. The first fitting part 29 has, on
the front end thereof, a fitting protrusion 30 having a bale-shaped
cross-section obtained by cutting off both sides of a round shank
in parallel. The fitting protrusion 30 has, on the front end
thereof, swelled portions 31 having a diameter swelled in the long
axis direction of the bale shape. Troughs 32 are formed on the
outer peripheral surfaces of both sides in the long axis direction
of the swelled portions 31 in the axis direction of the first
fitting part 29. The front end corners of the swelled portions 31
are chamfered edges 33.
[0090] In the second coupling member 28, a second fitting part 34
is molded on one end of a coupling cord 23 similar to the cord 19
from the same material as the first fitting part 29. The second
fitting part 34 has a hemispherical base end and a front end having
a fitting hole 35. The fitting hole 35 has a bale-shaped opening
into which the swelled portions 31 of the fitting protrusion 30 can
be inserted. The deep section of the fitting hole 35 is formed in a
circle having a diameter that allows the fitting protrusion 30 to
rotate in the fitting hole 35. Accordingly, locking portions 37
configured to engage with the swelled portions 31 are formed at the
opening of the fitting hole 35 so as to be line-symmetrical. The
opening edge of each locking portion 37 is gouged out to form an
arc so that the base end of the fitting protrusion 30 can
rotate.
[0091] The first fitting part 29 and the second fitting part 34
thus configured are fitted together by inserting the swelled
portions 31 of the fitting protrusion 30 into the fitting hole 35
and then rotating the first fitting part 29 in either direction.
Thus, the swelled portions 31 are locked to the locking portions 37
and held in the fitting hole 35. This holding force is set such
that when the typical curtain 1100 is bundled and locked by the
tassel 300, the fitting protrusion 30 and fitting hole 35 are
prevented from being detached from each other by a pulling force
(preferably, less than 1 kgf) acting on the tassel auxiliary part
100 against a minimum holding force required to keep the curtain
bunched. Only when a large pulling force which is larger than a
normal pulling force and is equal to or more than a predetermined
value (preferably, more than 2 kgf) acts on the cord 111 of the
tassel auxiliary part 100, the opening of the fitting hole 35 is
enlarged by the resiliency of the synthetic resin. Thus, the
swelled portions 31 are pulled out of the fitting hole 35,
detaching the fitting protrusion 30 from the fitting hole 35.
[0092] The fitting structure of the coupling part 16 is a type of
rotating fitting structure. That is, the base end of the fitting
protrusion 30 can be rotatably supported on the arc-shaped surfaces
of the locking portions 37. For this reason, the fitting protrusion
30 is fitted into the fitting hole 35 by inserting the swelled
portions 35 of the fitting protrusion 30 into the fitting hole 35
and then rotating the swelled portions 31 by 90 degrees. As a
result, it is possible to reduce the operation force for fitting
the fitting protrusion 30 into the fitting hole 35, as well as to
obtain a sufficient holding force to hold the fitting protrusion 30
in the fitting hole 35. Also, owing to the chamfered edges 33
formed on the front end of the fitting protrusion 30, the fitting
protrusion 30 can be easily fitted into the fitting hole 35. Since
fitting the fitting protrusion 35 into the fitting hole 35 requires
only a small operation force, the fitting protrusion 30 which is
detached can be refitted into the fitting hole 35 without having to
use a tool. Accordingly, if the coupling part 16 is decoupled, a
dweller can easily restore it to the original state. That is, after
the fitting protrusion 30 and the fitting hole 35 of the coupling
part 16 are detached from each other, the fitting protrusion 30 can
be refitted into the fitting hole 35 by rotating the fitting
protrusion 30 in the fitting hole 35. Thus, the looped tassel
auxiliary part 100 can be easily reconstructed.
[0093] The first and second coupling members 27 and 28 are attached
to the cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part by forming hollow
spaces in both ends of the cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part,
inserting the coupling cords 19 and 23 of the first and second
coupling member 27 and 28 into the spaces, and sewing together the
outer covering of the cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part and the
cords 19 and 23.
<Separation Part of Tassel Auxiliary Part of Modification 2 of
First Embodiment>
[0094] The separation part 114 need not necessarily have the
structure shown in FIG. 1(b) or FIG. 3 and may have any other
structure. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a
separation part of a tassel auxiliary part of a modification 2 of
the present embodiment. That is, the separation part 114 of the
tassel auxiliary part 100 may be a coupling part 16 having a
fitting structure as shown in FIG. 4. The fitting structure of the
coupling part 16 is also a type of rotating fitting structure. For
this reason, the members of the coupling part 16 can be refitted
together after detached from each other by rotating them manually.
This structure also can produce effects similar to those of the
structure shown in FIG. 3.
[0095] As shown in FIG. 4, in the coupling part 16, two first
coupling members 41 having the same structure are coupled together
via a tubular second coupling member (second fitting part) 42. As
shown in FIG. 4, each first coupling member 41 is fixed to one end
of a cord 14 and has a fitting protrusion 45 taking the shape of a
round shank, on the front end thereof as a male member. As shown in
FIG. 4, swelled portions 46 are formed on the outer peripheral
surface of the front end of the fitting protrusion 45 so as to be
line-symmetrical with respect to the center of the round shank.
Troughs 47 having a semicircular cross-section are formed between
the swelled portions 46. As shown in FIG. 4, rotation-restriction
portions 48 are formed on the base end of the fitting protrusion 45
so as to protrude in radial directions of the round shank and to be
line-symmetrical with respect to the center of the round shank. The
rotation-restriction portions 48 are formed in positions
circumferentially spaced from the troughs 47 by 45 degrees with
respect to the center of the round shank.
[0096] The second coupling member 42 is molded into a tubular shape
from the same synthetic resin as the first fitting part 41, as a
female member having a fitting hole. As shown in FIG. 4, openings
49a and 49b on both sides of the second coupling member 42 are each
formed in a bale shape into which the front end including the
swelled portions 46, of the corresponding fitting protrusion 45 can
be inserted. The opening portions 49a, 49b are shaped such that
orientations of the respective bale shapes are mutually rotated by
90 degrees with respect to the center of the tube. The second
coupling member 42 has therein a circular hole having a diameter
which allows the front ends of the fitting protrusions 45 to
rotate. Formed at opening edges in the short-axis direction of the
bale shape of the opening portion 49a are locking portions for
preventing the swelled portions 46 from coming out of the circular
hole. Formed at opening edges in the short-axis direction of the
bale shape of the opening portion 49b are locking portions for
preventing the swelled portions 46 from coming out of the circular
hole.
[0097] One of the first coupling members 41 and the second coupling
member 42 are coupled together by inserting the fitting protrusion
45 of the first fitting part 41 into the opening 49a of the second
coupling member 42 and then rotating the first fitting part 41
clockwise relative to the second coupling member 42. Similarly, the
other first coupling member 41 and the second coupling member 42
are coupled together by inserting the fitting protrusion 45 of the
first fitting part 41 into the other opening portion, 49b, of the
second coupling member 42 and rotating the first fitting part 41 by
90 degrees for positioning. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the
first coupling members 41 are coupled together via the second
coupling member 42.
<Tassel Auxiliary Part of Modification 3 of First
Embodiment>
[0098] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a tassel auxiliary part 100 of a
modification 3 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, a
curtain accessory 1000 of the present modification may include both
a tassel 300 and a tassel auxiliary part 100. In the present
modification, the separation part 114 described in the first
embodiment is disposed on the tassel auxiliary part 100.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 5, the tassel 300 has, on one edge thereof,
a looped tassel cord having the tassel auxiliary part 100 locked
thereto. The looped tassel cord is configured such that it cannot
be hooked on the tassel hook 200. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5,
the looped tassel cord is almost covered by a hiding member 152,
and a small exposed portion thereof is narrower than the hooking
part of a tassel hook. Accordingly, the looped tassel cord cannot
be hooked on the tassel hook 200. On the other hand, the tassel 300
has, on the other end thereof, another looped tassel cord 150 to be
hooked on the tassel hook 200.
[0100] Since the tassel auxiliary part 100 shown in FIG. 5 is
provided with the tubular hiding member 152 for covering a looped
tassel cord, the tassel auxiliary part 100 alone can be locked to
the tassel hook 200. According to this configuration, it is
possible to prevent a dweller from mistakenly hooking the looped
tassel cord to which the tassel auxiliary part 100 is connected, on
the tassel hook 200 and thus to effectively increase the
safety.
<Tassel Auxiliary Part of Modification 4 of First
Embodiment>
[0101] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a modification 4 of the present
embodiment in which a fall prevention collar 160 is disposed on a
tassel auxiliary part 100. Since the tassel auxiliary part 100
further includes the fall prevention means (e.g., the fall
prevention collar 160) that after a first coupling member 115 and a
second coupling member 116 forming a separation part are decoupled,
prevents the tassel auxiliary part 100 from falling from a tassel
hook (a section of a shaft 144 of the tassel hook is shown), the
decoupled members can be easily restored to their original
state.
Second Embodiment 2
Unlooped Tassel Auxiliary Part
[0102] FIG. 7(a) is a diagram showing an appearance of an unlooped
(clip-type) tassel auxiliary part 130 of a second embodiment. FIGS.
7(b) and (c) are diagrams showing the internal structure and
operation of the clip-type tassel auxiliary part 130 of the second
embodiment. A curtain accessory 1000 of the present embodiment is
the tassel auxiliary part 130. A coupling mechanism of the tassel
auxiliary part 130 includes a separation part (e.g., a first clip
132 and a second clip 134 shown in FIG. 7) that separates the
tassel auxiliary part 130 from an adjacent another member (e.g.,
the shaft 144 of the tassel hook whose section is shown in FIGS.
7(b) and 7(c)) by a pulling force. Note that in FIGS. 7(b) to 7(c),
the upper and lower parts of a base 142 of the tassel hook are
omitted.
[0103] As shown in FIG. 7, the tassel auxiliary part 130 includes
an insertion part 138 into which a looped tassel cord 150 of a
tassel 300 can be inserted. The separation part of the tassel
auxiliary part 130 includes clips (first clip 132 and second clip
134) for sandwiching the shaft 144 of the tassel hook [whose
sections are shown in FIGS. 7(b) and 7(c)].
[0104] In the tassel auxiliary part 130, the two clips, 132 and
134, are coupled together so as to be relatively rotatable about a
rotating shaft 136 (metal pin inserted). The tassel auxiliary part
130 includes a cam mechanism that causes the two clips, 132 and
134, to continue to hold the tassel hook 200 (a section of the
shaft 144 of the tassel hook is shown), as shown in FIG. 7(b), as
well as elastically deforms the clips 132 and 134 so that the clips
can be detached from the tassel hook 200 by a predetermined load,
as shown in FIG. 7(c).
[0105] This cam mechanism includes a cam 146 disposed on an end
adjacent to the rotating shaft 136, of the first clip 132 and a
wall 148 disposed in a position in contact with the cam 146, of the
second clip 134. According to this cam mechanism, the cam 146 of
the first clip 132 opens while pressing the wall 148 of the second
clip 134. Note that the first clip 132 and second clip 134
themselves also have some elasticity.
[0106] Owing to these mechanisms, when a load equal to or more than
a predetermined value is applied to the tassel 300, a pulling force
larger than usual is applied to the tassel auxiliary part 130
through the insertion part 138, into which the tassel cord 150 is
inserted. As a result, due to the elasticity of the cam mechanism
and the clips themselves, the first clip 132 and second clip 134
are opened, so that the tassel auxiliary part 130 is separated from
the adjacent tassel hook 200.
[0107] The first clip 132 and second clip 134 are provided with
guide edges 140a and 140b, respectively. Since the shaft 144 of the
tassel hook is guided by the guide edges 140a and 140b, the shaft
144 can be easily inserted into the inside of the clips even
manually when restoring the tassel auxiliary part 130 to its
original state.
[0108] A smaller slit than the tassel cord 150 may be formed in the
insertion part 138 so that the looped tassel cord 150 can be
inserted into the insertion part 138 through the slit from a side
of the tassel auxiliary part 130. This configuration is
advantageous in that the tassel auxiliary part 130 can be easily
attached to an existing tassel.
[0109] Although will not be described in detail, the curtain
accessory 1000 of the present embodiment may be the tassel 300 (not
shown in FIG. 7). In this case, the coupling mechanism may be a
clip structure (a separation part including a first clip 132 and a
second clip 134) disposed on one edge of the tassel 300. This clip
structure also can produce effects similar to those of the clip
structure disposed on the tassel auxiliary part 130.
Third Embodiment
Tassel Auxiliary Part Having Separated Tassel Cord Attached
Thereto
[0110] FIG. 8(a) shows a tape 154 provided with two tassel cords
150 to be sewed on both edges of a tassel 300, as a curtain
accessory 1000 of a third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8(a), the
string of one of the two tassel cords 150 is separated, and the
separated portions are jointed together by a tassel auxiliary part
100. Specifically, the tape 154 is separated between the two tassel
cords and then the tassel cords are sewed on both edges of the
tassel 300; respective base portions of the two tassel cords 150
disposed on the tape 154 are woven into the tape 154; while one of
the two tassel cords 150 is not separated at any midpoint thereof,
the other tassel cord 150 is separated at a midpoint thereof and a
separation part 16 is inserted between the separated portions of
the tassel cord 150.
[0111] FIG. 8(b) is an enlarged view of the separation part 16 in
FIG. 8(a). In the present embodiment, cords 19 and 23 connected to
a first coupling member 27 and a second coupling member 28,
respectively, forming the separation part (coupling part 16) of the
tassel auxiliary part 100 are fixed to the tassel cord 150 by
inserting and sewing these cords into the cores of both edges of
the tassel cord 150. The cords 19 and 23 may be fixed by heat
welding rather than sewing.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 8(b), the tassel cord 150 is endless since
both ends thereof are coupled together by the coupling part 16. The
tassel cord 150 is formed by covering a core 86a formed of
polyester, nylon, or the like with a woven polyester covering cord
86b. Use of the core 86a ensures the linearity of the tassel cord
150, as well as ensures the durability thereof in the extension
direction. A cord having no core 86a may be used, or a twisted cord
may be used in place of the woven cord.
[0113] FIG. 8(c) is an enlarged view of the structure of the
separation part (coupling part 16) of the tassel auxiliary part 100
in FIG. 8(a). In the present embodiment, the first coupling member
27 and second coupling member 28 forming the separation part
(coupling part 16) of the tassel auxiliary part 100 are formed of a
resin of the same type and are coupled together by a snap
structure, which is a type of fitting structure. The first coupling
member 27 is provided with a fitting protrusion 30 having a swelled
portion 31 formed therearound. On the other hand, the second
coupling member 28 has a fitting hole 35 having a shape into which
the fitting protrusion 30 can be inserted and a trough 32 having a
shape into which the swelled portion 31 can be inserted, around the
fitting hole 35.
[0114] The first fitting part 27 and the second fitting part 28
thus configured are coupled together by inserting the swelled
portion 31 of the fitting protrusion 30 into the fitting hole 35.
Thus, the first fitting part 31 is engaged with the trough 32 and
held in the fitting hole 35. This holding force is set such that
when the a typical curtain 1100 is bunched and locked by the tassel
300, the fitting protrusion 30 and fitting hole 35 are prevented
from being detached from each other by a normal pulling force
working on the tassel auxiliary part 100 inserted into the one
tassel cord (note that the tape 154 is separated between the two
tassel cords 150 shown in FIG. 8(a), and the two tassel cords 150
are sewed on both edges of the tassel 300). Only when a large
pulling force which is larger than a normal pulling force and is
equal to or more than a predetermined value acts on the tassel
auxiliary part 100, the opening of the fitting hole 35 is enlarged
by the resiliency of the synthetic resin. Thus, the swelled portion
31 is pulled out of the trough 32, detaching the fitting protrusion
30 from the fitting hole 35.
Fourth Embodiment
Tassel Obtained by Incorporating Coupling Mechanism into Looped
Tassel
[0115] FIG. 9 includes diagrams showing a configuration in which a
separation part 114 which can be separated by a predetermined
pulling force is disposed on looped tassel cords 310a and 310b of a
tassel 300 of a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 includes diagrams
showing a mechanism in which when a predetermined pulling force is
applied to the separation part 114 disposed on the looped tassel
cord 310b of the tassel 300 of the present embodiment, the tassel
cord 310b is unlooped and thus the tassel 300 hangs down.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 9(a), a curtain accessory 1000 of the
present embodiment is not a tassel auxiliary part 100 as shown in
the first embodiment but a tassel 300 itself. The tassel 300 has
circular parts (looped tassel cords 310a and 310b) on both edges of
a tassel main body 302, as well as has, as a coupling mechanism, a
separation part 114 that separates and unloops one (looped tassel
cord 310b) of the circular parts. FIG. 9(b) is an enlarged view
showing the structure of the separation part 114. The structure of
the separation part is similar to the structure shown in FIG. 1(b)
and has been described in the first embodiment in detail and
therefore will not be described repeatedly.
[0117] FIG. 10(a) is a diagram showing the configuration in which a
curtain 1100 is bunched and locked to a tassel hook 200 by the
tassel 300. As shown in FIG. 10(a), the tassel 300 including the
tassel cord 310b connected by the separation part 114 forms a loop
as a whole and thus bunches the curtain 1100 and locks it to the
tassel hook 200. In this state, for example, if a dweller is caught
on the tassel 300, a pulling force 500 is applied to the tassel
cord 310b disposed on one edge of the tassel 300. Thus, as shown in
FIG. 10(b), a male member 115 and a female member 116 of the
separation part 114 are detached from each other, and the tassel
300 is unlooped (noncircular) and hangs down toward the floor.
<Modification 1 of Fourth Embodiment: Built-in Type Separation
Part>
[0118] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a modification 1 of the fourth
embodiment in which a separation part 114 of a tassel 300 is of
built-in type. In the present modification, as shown by an internal
structure diagram in FIG. 11(a), the tassel 300 is provided with a
tassel cord 310b whose base portion alone is fixed by a seam 308
inside a tassel main body 302 (decoration member, hiding member),
and the separation part 114 is disposed at a midpoint of the tassel
cord 310b. As shown in FIG. 11(b), when the tassel 300 is seen from
outside, the separation part 114 disposed on the tassel cord 310b
is hidden behind the tassel main body 302. When a pulling force
equal to or more than a predetermined value is applied to the
tassel cord 310b of the tassel 300, the separation part 114 is
separated, and the looped tassel cord 310b is unlooped, as shown in
FIG. 11(c). This configuration can improve the design of the tassel
300.
<Modification 2 of Fourth Embodiment: Tassel Having Shape in
which Tassel Cord is Horizontally Separated by Knot in
Center>
[0119] There are various modifications of the shape of the tassel
300. FIG. 12 shows a tassel 300 of a modification 2 of the present
embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the tassel 300 does not include a
cloth tassel main body 302 and has a shape in which tassel cords
310a and 310b are horizontally separated by a knot 304 in the
center. In this case, a separation part 114 may be disposed at a
midpoint of the looped tassel cord 310b.
[0120] FIG. 12 includes diagrams showing a mechanism in which when
a predetermined pulling force is applied to the separation part 114
disposed on the looped tassel cord 310b of the tassel 300 (a
string-type modification having a knot) of the present embodiment,
the tassel cord 310b is unlooped and thus the tassel 300 hangs down
or falls.
[0121] Assume that a string-type tassel 300 having a knot as shown
in FIG. 12(a) is used and that a curtain 1100 is opened in a state
in which a tassel cord 310a not provided with a separation part 114
is hooked on a tassel hook 200, as shown in FIG. 12(b). In this
case, even when a predetermined pulling force is applied to the
separation part 114 and thus a tassel cord 310b is unlooped, a
tassel cord 310a would remain looped and therefore the tassel 300
would not fall from the tassel hook 200. Thus, the decoupled tassel
300 can be easily restored to its original state.
[0122] On the other hand, assume that the curtain 1100 is opened in
a state in which the tassel cord 310b provided with the separation
part 114 is hooked on the tassel hook 200, as shown in FIG. 12(c).
In this case, if a predetermined pulling force is applied to the
separation part 114, the tassel cord 310b would be unlooped and
thus the tassel 300 would fall from the tassel hook 200.
[0123] The separation part 114 may have a relatively elongated
shape, as shown in FIG. 12(d).
<Modification 3 of Fourth Embodiment: Tassel in which Separation
Part of Tassel Cord is Covered by Decoration Member>
[0124] FIG. 13 shows a modification 3 in which a tassel 300 of the
present embodiment is provided with a decoration member (hiding
member) 306. A coupling mechanism (separation part 114) disposed on
a tassel cord 310 of the tassel 300 is covered by the decoration
member (hiding member) 306. In the tassel 300, the connected,
looped tassel cord 310 is passed through a through hole formed in
the decoration member (hiding member) 306 in the center and
separated horizontally. While a separation part 114 is disposed at
a midpoint of the connected, looped tassel cord 310, it is hidden
in the through hole formed in the decoration member (hiding member)
306. This configuration can improve the design of the tassel
300.
[0125] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a mechanism in which when a
predetermined pulling force is applied to the separation part 114
disposed on the looped tassel cord 310 of the tassel 300 (a
string-type modification in which the separation part 114 is
disposed in the decoration member 306) of the present modification,
the tassel cord 310 is unlooped, and the tassel 300 hangs down or
falls.
[0126] Assume that the string-type tassel 300 including the
decoration member 306 shown in FIGS. 13(a) to 13(b) is used. If a
predetermined pulling force is applied to the separation part 114,
the pulling force is transmitted to the separation part 114 present
in the through hole in the decoration member 306. This is because
the tassel cord 310 is a connected structure. Thus, as shown in
FIG. 13(c), the tassel cord 310 would be unlooped, and the tassel
300 would fall from the tassel hook 200. As seen above, use of the
string-type tassel 300 having the decoration member 306 can
increase the safety without impairing design.
Embodiment 5-1
Tassel Hook Incorporating Separation Part (Separation Part Between
Protruding Shaft and Hooking Part)
[0127] FIG. 14 in diagrams showing the configuration of a tassel
hook 200 of the present embodiment in which a separation part 114
which can be separated by a predetermined pulling force is disposed
between a protruding shaft 204 and a hooking part 206. A curtain
accessory 1000 of the present embodiment is a tassel hook 200, and
the tassel hook 200 includes, as a coupling mechanism, a separation
part 114 that separates the tassel hook 200 into multiple parts by
a pulling force.
[0128] As shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b), the tassel hook 200
includes a base 202 which is to be fixed to a fixing standing
surface 400 of a wall, window frame, or the like. The tassel hook
200 also includes a protruding shaft 204 protruding from the base
202. The tassel hook 200 also includes the hooking part 206 which
is supported by the protruding shaft 204 and on which a tassel 300
or tassel auxiliary part 100 [in FIG. 14(b), a cord 111 of the
tassel auxiliary part 100] is to be hooked. The separation part 114
is disposed between the protruding shaft 204 and hooking part
206.
[0129] As shown in FIGS. 14(b) and 14(c), the upper side of the
protruding shaft 204 is inclined so as to be lowered toward a
trigger (the contact between the upper side of the protruding shaft
204 and the inner surface of the hooking part 206) disposed on the
separation part 114. Thus, when the tassel 300 or tassel auxiliary
part 100 (in FIG. 14(b), the cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part
100) contacts the trigger (the contact between the upper side of
the protruding shaft 204 and the inner surface of the hooking part
206) and applies a pulling force 500 thereto, the separation part
114 is decoupled.
[0130] FIG. 14(d) is a vertical sectional view of the separation
part 114. FIG. 14(e) is a perspective view showing the
configuration of the tassel hook 200. As shown in these figures, a
cylindrical cavity having a ceiling of the hooking part 206 is
fitted into a cylindrically swelled front end 210 of the protruding
shaft 204 while sliding it from above. Thus, the hooking part 206
and protruding shaft 204 are coupled together in the separation
part 114. As a result, as shown in FIG. 14(c), the hooking part 206
and protruding shaft 204 are decoupled in the separation part
114.
[0131] The holding force of the separation part 114 is set such
that when the typical curtain 1100 is bunched and locked by the
tassel 300, the hooking part 206 and protruding shaft 204 are
prevented from being decoupled by a typical pulling force working
on the trigger (the contact between the upper side of the
protruding shaft 204 and the inner surface of the hooking part 206)
through a cord 111 of a tassel auxiliary part 100. Only when a
large pulling force which is larger than a normal pulling force and
is equal to or more than a predetermined value acts on the trigger
(the contact between the upper side of the protruding shaft 204 and
the inner surface of the hooking part 206), the hooking part 206
expands due to the elasticity thereof or the cylindrically swelled
front end 210 of the protruding shaft 204 contracts, and the
cylindrical cavity having a ceiling of the hooking part 206 is
detached from the front end 210, thereby decoupling the hooking
part 206 and protruding shaft 204.
Embodiment 5-2
Tassel Hook Incorporating Separation Part (Separation Part Between
Base and Protruding Shaft)
[0132] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of a tassel
hook 200 of the present embodiment in which a separation part 114
which can be separated by a predetermined pulling force is disposed
between a base 202 and a protruding shaft 204 (including a
modification incorporating a holding cord 218 that prevents the
protruding shaft 204 from falling when the protruding shaft 204 is
separated).
[0133] As shown in FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b), the tassel hook 200
includes a base 202 to be fixed to a fixing standing surface 400 of
a wall, window frame, or the like. The tassel hook 200 also
includes a protruding shaft 204 protruding from the base 202. The
tassel hook 200 also includes a hooking part 206 which is supported
by the protruding shaft 204 and on which a tassel 300 or tassel
auxiliary part 100 [in FIG. 15(b), a cord 111 of the tassel
auxiliary part 100] is to be hooked. Note that unlike in FIGS.
14(a) and 14(b), the separation part 114 is disposed between the
base 202 and protruding shaft 204. Further, the separation part 114
is configured in such a manner that it couples the base 202 and
protruding shaft 204 together using the rotating fitting structure
thereof and, after decoupled, can be recoupled by rotating it
manually. For example, forms similar to the male forms 30 and 31
corresponding to the female forms 35 and 37 in FIG. 3 may be
disposed on the base or protruding shaft.
[0134] As shown in FIGS. 15(b) and 15(c), when the tassel 300 or
tassel auxiliary part 100 [in FIG. 15(b), the cord 111 of the
tassel auxiliary part 100] contacts the upper side of the
protruding shaft 204 or the inner surface of the hooking part 206
and applies a pulling force 500 thereto, the pulling force is also
applied to the separation part 114, decoupling it. Note that in
FIGS. 15(b) and 15(c), the entire protruding shaft 204 serves as a
trigger and therefore the upper side thereof need not be
inclined.
[0135] As shown in FIGS. 15(c), 15(d), and 15(e), the tassel hook
200 includes, as holding means, the holding cord 218 that holds the
protruding shaft 204 and hooking part 206, which are prevented from
falling on the floor when the separation part 114 is coupled, so
that the protruding shaft 204 and hooking part 206 are prevented
from falling on the floor even when the separation part 114 is
decoupled. The tassel hook 200 also includes an accommodation part
219 that can accommodate the holding cord 218, which is redundant
in normal times (when the separation part 114 is restored). As
shown in FIG. 15(d), a slit is formed in a lower portion of the
protruding shaft 204, and the accommodation part 219 can
accommodate the redundant holding cord 218 through the slit. Note
that by disposing the accommodation part 219 in the base, the base
may be allowed to accommodate the holding cord 218.
[0136] That is, a holding cord 218 that holds the base 202 so that
the base 202 is prevented from falling on the floor even when the
separation part 114 is decoupled is disposed between the base 202
and protruding shaft 204. Both ends of the holding cord 218 are
inserted into holes formed in the base 202 and protruding shaft 204
and fixed by knots 220 that are present on the both ends and are
larger than the diameters of the through holes. Thus, even when the
separation part 114 is decoupled, the protruding shaft 204 or
hooking part 206 does not fall on the floor. As a result, the
protruding shaft 204 and hooking part 206 can be easily restored to
their original state after the separation part 114 is
decoupled.
Sixth Embodiment
Slide-Type Tassel Hook
[0137] FIG. 16 includes diagrams showing the configuration of a
tassel hook 200 of the present embodiment (vertical slide-type
modification) in which a separation part 114 which can be separated
by a predetermined pulling force is disposed between a base 202 and
a mount 230. FIG. 17 includes diagrams showing the configurations
of the base 202 and mount 230 of the tassel hook 200 of the present
embodiment (vertical slide-type modification) using perspective
views.
[0138] As shown in FIGS. 16(a) to 16(c) and 17(a) to 17(c), the
tassel hook 200 includes the mount 230 to be mounted on a fixing
standing surface 400 of a wall, window frame, or the like using a
screw or the like corresponding to a mounting hole 401 shown in
FIG. 17(c). The tassel hook 200 also includes the base 202 to be
locked to the mount 230. As shown in FIG. 16(c), the base 202
covers the mount 230 so that the mount 230 is not exposed in normal
times. The tassel hook 200 also includes a protruding shaft 204
protruding from the base 202. The tassel hook 200 also includes a
hooking part 206 which is supported by the protruding shaft 204 and
on which a tassel 300 or tassel auxiliary part 100 [in FIGS. 16(b)
and 16(d), a cord 111 of the tassel auxiliary part 100] is to be
hooked. The separation part 114 is disposed between the base 202
and mount 230.
[0139] As shown in FIGS. 16(a) to 16(c), 17(a), and 17(b), the
mount 230 includes a small protrusion 234 for locking a base, as a
base locking part for locking the base 202. The mount 230 also has
a slide groove 232 for sliding the base 202 approximately
vertically. In these diagrams, the slide groove 232 is inclined in
such a manner that a lower portion thereof is more distant from the
fixing standing surface 400. As shown in FIG. 16(b), a protruding
shaft 240 (directing to the inside of the base) can be inserted
into the slide groove 232 through an opening on an upper slope. The
slide groove 232 is formed in such a manner that the upper opening
is wide in front-back direction; a vertically middle portion
thereof is upright; and the width between the vertically middle
portion and the wall surface is approximately the same as the
diameter of the protruding shaft 240 inserted into the inside of
the base. A lower portion of the slide groove 232 is inclined
toward the front, has the small protrusion 234 on an upper portion
thereof, and forms a holding portion whose front-back width is
narrower than the protruding shaft 240 directing to the inside of
the base.
[0140] Thus, as shown in FIGS. 16(c) and 16(d), when the tassel 300
or tassel auxiliary part 100 [in FIGS. 16(c) and 16(d), the cord
111 of the tassel auxiliary part 100] contacts the protruding shaft
204 or hooking part 206 and applies a force thereto, the protruding
shaft 240 inserted into the inside of the base extends over the
small protrusion 234, and the base 202 slides downward along the
slide groove 232, thereby decoupling the separation part 114. Since
the slide groove 232 is inclined in such a manner that a lower
portion thereof is more distant from the fixing standing surface
400, it is possible to prevent the ceiling of the base 202 from
colliding with the mount 230 and being caught thereon.
[0141] In seventh and eighth embodiments described below, a tassel
hook including a displacement mechanism is disclosed as a coupling
mechanism.
[0142] Specifically, the tassel hooks of these embodiments are
tassel hooks to which a tassel bunching a curtain is to be locked,
and each include a displacement mechanism for displacing the
structure of the tassel hook. The displacement mechanism is
configured such that when a load exceeding a predetermined value is
applied to the tassel hook through the tassel, it displaces the
structure of the tassel hook to unlock the tassel. The displacement
mechanism is also configured such that after unlocking the tassel,
it can restore the displaced structure to its original state so
that the tassel can be locked thereto.
Seventh Embodiment
Rotating Hook-Type Safety Tassel Hook
[0143] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an aspect in which a tassel
hook 200 of the present embodiment is used with an existing tassel
300. As shown in FIG. 18(a), the tassel hook 200 is a tassel hook
200 on which a tassel 300 bunching a curtain (not shown) is to be
locked. The tassel hook 200 is fixed to a fixing standing surface
400 of a wall or the like. The tassel hook 200 includes a base 202
to be fixed to the fixing standing surface 400 and a rotating hook
203.
[0144] The tassel 300 for bunching a curtain (not shown) is locked
to the tassel hook 200. One looped tassel cord, 310b, of the tassel
300 is hooked on the rotating hook 203. The tassel 300 as a whole
has a two-loop structure and is locked to the tassel hook 200.
[0145] In this state, for example, if a dweller or the like is
caught on the tassel 300, a pulling force 500 is applied to the
tassel cord 310b disposed on one edge of the tassel 300, as shown
in FIG. 18(a). If the load applied to the rotating hook 203 through
the tassel cord 310b exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., 2 kgf),
the structure of the tassel hook 200 is displaced (in a
displacement direction 702), as shown in FIG. 18(b). Thus, the
tassel 300 is unlocked (in an unlocking direction 704), and the
tassel 300 falls toward the floor.
[0146] FIG. 19 is a structure diagram showing the structure of the
existing tassel. Circular parts (looped tassel cords 310a and 310b)
are disposed on both edges of the tassel 300. A knot 304 of the
tassel cords 310a and 310b is disposed in the center of the tassel
300. A pendant 305 is disposed below the knot 304 in the center of
the tassel 300. To bunch a curtain (not shown) and lock it to the
tassel hook 200 using the tassel 300, the other tassel cord, 310a,
is also hooked on the rotating hook 203 of the tassel hook 200.
Thus, the entire tassel 300 forms one loop and can lock the curtain
(not shown) to the tassel hook 200.
[0147] FIG. 20 includes structure diagrams showing a counter
balance-type displacement mechanism 800 of a tassel hook 200 of the
present embodiment. The tassel hook 200 includes the balance-type
displacement mechanism 800 that displaces the structure of the
tassel hook 200. The displacement mechanism 800 is configured to,
when the load applied to the tassel hook 200 through the tassel 300
exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., 2 kgf), displace the structure
of the tassel hook 200 to unlock the tassel 300. The displacement
mechanism 800 is also configured in such a manner that, after
unlocking the tassel 300, it can restore the displaced structure to
the original state so that the tassel 300 can be locked to the
tassel hook 200.
[0148] As shown in a perspective view of FIG. 20(a), a side view of
FIG. 20(b), and a rear view of FIG. 20(c), the displacement
mechanism 800 includes a hooking part 213 disposed on one end of a
rotating hook 203 and energizing means (weight 209) disposed on the
other end of the rotating hook 203. The displacement mechanism 800
is disposed on a base 202 and has an opening hole 207 into which
the rotating hook 203 can be inserted. The opening hole 207 has a
larger width than the rotating hook 203. The displacement mechanism
800 is disposed in the opening hole 207 of the base 202 and
includes a rotating mechanism 215 that rotatably supports the
rotating hook 203 between the hooking part 213 and energizing means
(weight 209).
[0149] As shown in a rear view of a base of FIG. 20(d), a side view
of a rotating hook of FIG. 20(e), and a rear view of a rotating
hook of FIG. 20(f), the rotating mechanism 215 includes bearings
217a and 217b disposed in the opening hole 207 of the base 202 and
rotating shafts 227a and 227b disposed between the hooking part 213
of the rotating hook 203 and the energizing means (weight 209).
[0150] The bearings 217a and 217b are disposed so as to be opposite
to the side wall of the base 202. The rotating hook 203 is attached
to the base 202 by engaging the rotating shafts 227a and 227b of
the rotating hook 203 with the bearings 217a and 217b from the rear
of the base 202.
[0151] As shown in FIG. 18, the tassel hook 200 thus configured
normally maintains a state in which the hooking part 213 stands by
the weight 209. When the downward load applied to the hooking part
213 through the tassel 300 exceeds a threshold (e.g., 2 kgf), the
rotating hook 203 is rotated in the rotating mechanism 215, and the
hooking part 213 is displaced downward. Thus, the tassel 300 is
detached from the hooking part 213 and falls toward the floor. As
seen above, there is obtained a tassel hook 200 that has a simple
configuration but allows the tassel 300 to come off and fall down
by a predetermined load, that is, has high safety in an
emergency.
[0152] After unlocking the tassel 300, the displacement mechanism
800 of the tassel hook 200 can automatically restore the displaced
structure to its original state so that the tassel 300 can be
locked to the tassel hook 200 again. The tassel hook 200 is
advantageous in that it has high safety in an emergency, as well as
after preventing a trouble in an emergency, can be restored to its
original state and used repeatedly.
<Modification 1 of Seventh Embodiment: Disposition of Protrusion
239a>
[0153] FIG. 21 is a structure diagram showing a balance-type
displacement mechanism of a tassel hook of a modification 1 of the
present embodiment. In the modification 1, as shown in FIG. 21(a),
a receiver 237a in contact with a tassel cord 310b, of the base 202
is formed in an R shape along the perimeter of a cross-section of
the tassel cord 310b. A receiver 237b of a hooking part 213 of a
rotating hook 203 is also formed in an R shape along the perimeter
of a cross-section of the tassel cord 310b. Thus, the receiver 237a
can receive approximately half the load with the tassel cord 310b
handing down.
[0154] As shown in FIG. 21(b), the lower end of R of the receiver
237a is provided with a protrusion 239a. Such a shape allows the
tassel cord 310b to be more easily hooked. Further, the receiver
237a of the base 202 and the protrusion 239a can receive half or
more the load of the tassel 300 in normal times. On the other hand,
as shown in FIG. 21(c), a protrusion 239b is disposed on a lower
portion of the weight 209 and thus the protrusion 239b of the
weight 209 is hooked on the lower edge of an opening hole 207
formed in the base 202.
[0155] This modification is an improved structure for keeping the
tassel cord 310b held in the receivers 237a and 237b. That is, the
displacement mechanism 800 is configured to reliably keep the
tassel 300 locked without rotating the rotating hook 203 until the
load applied to the tassel hook 200 through the tassel 300 exceeds
the predetermined value (e.g., 2 kgf).
<Modification 2 of Seventh Embodiment: Disposition of Protrusion
on Base Part of Base>
[0156] Next, referring to FIGS. 22 to 25, a modification 2 of the
seventh embodiment will be described. The modification 2 has a
configuration similar to that of the modification 1 of the seventh
embodiment and therefore the difference therebetween will be mainly
described.
[0157] In the modification 2, a tassel hook 200 consists of a base
202 and a rotating hook 203. Rotating shafts 227a and 227b disposed
on both side surfaces of the rotating hook 203 are supported by a
pair of bearings 217a and 217b disposed so as to be opposite to the
side wall of the base 202. Thus, the rotating hook 203 is rotatably
supported by the base 202. The base 202 is fixed to a fixing
standing surface 400, for example, by inserting screws (not shown)
into mounting holes 219a and 219b and then screwing the screws into
the fixing standing surface 400.
[0158] The base 202 has a protrusion 13 on a bottom wall 17
thereof. If the downward load applied to the hooking part 213 is
equal to or less than a threshold, when a protrusion 239b disposed
on a lower portion of a weight 209 of the rotating hook 203
contacts the protrusion 13, the rotating hook 203 is prevented from
rotating. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 22(a), when a force
in the direction of an arrow X is applied to a tassel cord 310b,
the tassel cord 310b applies a component force to the hooking part
213. Thus, a torque using the rotating shafts 227a and 227b as the
rotation center is applied to the hooking part 213 and thus a
torque in the direction of an arrow Y1 is applied to the weight
209. When the protrusion 239b and protrusion 13 are disengaged from
each other due to this torque, the rotating hook 203 is rotated as
shown in FIG. 22(b) and thus the tassel cord 310b comes out of the
hooking part 213. In the present embodiment, slits 15 are formed on
both sides of the protrusion 13 on the bottom wall 17 and thus the
force required to move the protrusion 13 downward is reduced, and
the threshold of the load required to start to rotate the rotating
hook 203 is lowered. This threshold can also be set as appropriate
by changing the thickness of the bottom wall 17 or changing the
shapes of the protrusion 13 and 239b. The slits 15 need not
necessarily be formed.
[0159] When the tassel cord 310b comes out in the state shown in
FIG. 22(b), the load applied to the hooking part 213 is lost, and
the rotating hook 203 is rotated in the direction of an arrow Y2 by
the self weight of the weight 209. Thus, as shown in FIG. 22(c),
the rotation of the rotating hook 203 stops with the protrusion
239b in contact with the protrusion 13. When the hooking part 213
is pressed with a finger or the like in the direction of an arrow Z
in FIG. 22(c) in this state, the protrusion 239b extends over the
protrusion 13 and is restored to the state in FIG. 22(a).
<Modification 3 of Seventh Embodiment: Displacement Mechanism
Using Locking Member>
[0160] Next, referring to FIGS. 26 to 29, a modification 3 of the
seventh embodiment will be described. The modification 3 has a
configuration similar to that of the seventh embodiment, but it
mainly differs therefrom in that it includes a rotation regulation
mechanism using a locking member. The difference will be mainly
described below.
[0161] In the modification 3, as shown in FIG. 26, a tassel hook
200 consists of a base 202 and a rotating hook 203. As shown in
FIGS. 27 and 28, rotating shafts 227a and 227b are disposed on both
side walls 32a and 32b of a rotating hook 203. The rotating shafts
227a and 227b are supported by a pair of bearings 217a and 217b
disposed so as to be opposite to the side wall of the base 202 and
thus the rotating hook 203 is rotatably supported by the base 202.
The base 202 and receiver 237b are designed so that there is no gap
therebetween in a normal use state shown in FIG. 26(a) and thus the
tassel cord 310b is prevented from being caught.
[0162] As shown in FIG. 28(a), through holes 37a and 37b are formed
in both side walls 32a and 32b of the rotating hook 203. Heads 45a
and 45b of locking members 31a and 31b are inserted into the holes
37a and 37b. As shown in FIG. 29, the locking members 31a and 31b
include bases 41a and 41b and heads 45a and 45b that protrude from
the bases 41a and 41b and have approximately semi-spherical ends.
The bases 41a and 41b are tubular and can hold both ends of a coil
spring 35 disposed between the locking members 31a and 31b. As
shown in FIG. 28(b), the coil spring 35 energizes the locking
members 31a and 31b so as to press the locking members 31a and 31b
against the side walls 32a and 32b in a state in which the heads
45a and 45b of the locking members 31a and 31b are inserted into
the through holes 37a and 37b. The bases 41a and 41b have a larger
size than the through holes 37a and 37b. Thus, when the bases 41a
and 41b are pressed against the side walls 32a and 32b, the locking
members 31a and 31b are held on the rotating hook 203.
[0163] As shown in FIG. 28(b), the heads 45a and 45b of the locking
members 31a and 31b are housed in engaging recesses 33a and 33b.
When no load is applied to the rotating hook 203, the rotation of
the rotating hook 203 is hampered.
[0164] As shown in FIG. 26(a), when a force in the direction of an
arrow X is applied to the tassel cord 310b, the tassel cord 310b
moves along the slope of the receiver 237b toward the hooking part
213 (note that this movement is rare; typically, the tassel cord
310b falls into the trough between the receiver 237b and hooking
part 213 by the self-weight of the tassel 300 and lies therein;
however, the description will be made on the above assumption for
the sake of convenience) and contacts the hooking part 213. Thus,
(note that typically, the load is applied to the hooking part 213
immediately), a torque using the rotating shafts 227a and 227b as
the rotation center is applied to the hooking part 213. The heads
45a and 45b of the locking members 31a and 31b have approximately
semi-spherical ends. Accordingly, when the heads 45a and 45b
contact the inner wall surfaces of the engaging recesses 33a and
33b, forces in directions in which the coil spring 35 shrinks [in
the directions of arrows Z in FIG. 28(b)] are applied to the
locking members 31a and 31b. Thus, when the torque applied to the
hooking part 213 exceeds the threshold, the heads 45a and 45b and
the engaging recesses 33a and 33b are disengaged from each other.
As shown in FIG. 26(b), the rotating hook 203 is rotated in the
direction of an arrow Y1 shown in FIG. 26(a), and the tassel cord
310b is detached from the hooking part 213.
[0165] By, after the tassel cord 310b is detached, rotating the
rotating hook 203 in a reverse direction and thus re-engaging the
heads 45a and 45b with the engaging recesses 33a and 33b against
the energizing force of the coil spring 35, the tassel hook 200 can
be restored to the state shown in FIG. 26(a).
[0166] In the configuration of the present modification, the
threshold at which the rotation of the rotating hook 203 is started
can be easily adjusted by changing the strength of the coil spring
35. If the threshold is set on the basis of the engagement between
the protrusion 239b and protrusion 13 as in the modification 2, the
threshold may be changed due to the wear of the protrusion, or the
like during repeated use. On the other hand, in the present
modification, the semi-spherical heads 45a and 45b are pressed into
the engaging recesses 33a and 33b by the energizing force of the
coil spring 35 and thus a change in threshold due to wear is less
likely to occur.
[0167] The rotating hook 203 may be energized by a torsion spring,
like in a modification 1 of an eighth embodiment (to be discussed
later). In this case, the locking members 31a and 31b can be
removed.
[0168] The heads 45a and 45b may be formed integrally with the
rotating hook 203 so that the heads are elastically engaged with
the engaging recesses 33a and 33b.
Eighth Embodiment
Hinge-Type Safety Tassel Hook
[0169] FIG. 30 includes structure diagrams showing a hinge-type
displacement mechanism 800 of a tassel hook 200 of the present
embodiment. The tassel hook 200 includes a base 202 to be fixed to
a fixing standing surface 400, a protruding shaft 204 protruding
from the base 202, and a hooking part 206 which is supported by the
protruding shaft 204 and on which a tassel 300 is to be hooked. The
tassel hook 200 includes a flat spring-type displacement mechanism
800 that displaces the structure of the tassel hook 200.
[0170] As shown in a side view of FIG. 30(a) and a perspective view
of FIG. 30(d), the displacement mechanism 800 includes a hinge 235
that connects the protruding shaft 204 and hooking part 206 and
elastic means (flat spring 229) that holds the protruding shaft 204
and hooking part 206 in such a manner that the protruding shaft 204
and hooking part 206 form an angle in a predetermined range at the
hinge 235.
[0171] As shown in a side sectional view of FIG. 30(b) and a side
sectional view of FIG. 30(c), one end of the elastic means (flat
spring 229) is inserted into a recess 233b of the protruding shaft
204 with an allowance 231b left, and the other end thereof is
inserted into a recess 233a of the hooking part 206 with an
allowance 231a left. By leaving the allowances 231a and 231b as
described above, the entire flat spring 229 is stored in the
recesses 233a and 233b even when the angle of the hinge 235 is
increased. Thus, the flat spring 229 is prevented from inhibiting
an increase in the angle of the hinge 235, and the displacement
mechanism 800 operates smoothly in an emergency.
[0172] The displacement mechanism 800 is configured to, when the
load applied to the hooking part 206 through the tassel cord 310b
exceeds the predetermined value (e.g., 2 kgf), increase the angle
of the hinge 235 so that the tassel cord 310b slides in a movement
direction 900 of the tassel cord and falls, as shown in FIG. 30(f).
Since an upper side 205 of the hinge 235 has no recess in the
displaced state, the tassel cord 310b is prevented from being
caught on a recess and thus failing to fall.
[0173] FIG. 31 includes diagrams showing an aspect in which the
tassel hook 200 of the present embodiment is used with an existing
tassel 300. For example, if a dweller is caught on the tassel 300
with one looped tassel cord, 310b, hooked on the hooking part 206
of the tassel hook 200, a pulling force 500 is applied to the
tassel cord 310b disposed on one edge of the tassel 300, as shown
in FIG. 31(a).
[0174] If the load applied to the hooking part 206 of the tassel
hook 200 through the tassel cord 310b exceeds the predetermined
value (e.g., 2 kgf), the structure of the tassel hook 200 is
displaced (in the displacement direction 702), as shown in FIG.
31(b). Thus, the tassel 300 is unlocked (in the unlocking direction
704), and the tassel 300 falls toward the floor. After the tassel
300 falls, the structure of the tassel hook 200 is restored to the
original state by the energizing force of the elastic means (flat
spring 229), allowing the tassel hook 200 to hold the tassel 300
again.
<Modification 1 of Eighth Embodiment: Torsion Spring>
[0175] FIGS. 32 and 33 are structure diagrams showing a hinge-type
displacement mechanism 800 of a tassel hook 200 of a modification
of the present embodiment. In this modification, as shown in a side
view of FIG. 32(a) and a front view of FIG. 32(b), a torsion spring
is used as elastic means in place of the flat spring 229. The
torsion spring is also called a coil spring and includes a coil 236
and two arms 234a and 234b.
[0176] In this modification, as shown in a side sectional view of
FIG. 32(c), the coil 236 of the torsion spring is wound about a
rotating shaft 238 disposed in the center of a hinge 235. The arm
234b of the torsion spring is housed in an arm housing space 232b
disposed in a hooking part. On the other hand, the arm 234a of the
torsion spring is housed in an arm housing space 232a disposed in a
protruding shaft 204.
[0177] In this modification, when the load applied to the hooking
part 206 through a tassel cord 310b exceeds a predetermined value
(e.g., 2 kgf), the angle of the hinge 235 is increased, and the
tassel cord 310b slides in a tassel cord movement direction 900 and
falls, as shown in a side sectional view of FIG. 32(d) and a front
view of FIG. 32(e). Since an upper side 205 of the hinge 235 has no
recess in the displaced state, the tassel cord 310b is prevented
from being caught on a recess and thus failing to fall.
[0178] In particular, it is necessary to form, in the hinge 235, a
gap for ensuring the rotation angle between both arms on the front
end of the protruding shaft 204 and the base edge of the hooking
part 206. Tapered surfaces 334a and 334b as shown in FIGS. 33(a)
and 33(b) are formed so that the tassel cord 310b is prevented from
falling into the gap.
[0179] While the embodiments of the present invention have been
described with reference to the drawings, the embodiments are
illustrative of the present invention. Various configurations other
than those described above can be employed.
[0180] For example, in the embodiments, some typical examples have
been described as the fitting structure of the separation part 114
used in the coupling mechanism. However, those fitting structures
are not limiting, and any type of known fitting structure may be
used. For example, various types of fitting structures described in
WO2011/136235 can be suitably used. Even when those fitting
structures are used, the safety of a curtain accessory can be
improved as in the embodiments.
[0181] While, in the embodiments, the tassel hook 200 is separated
into multiple portions by a pulling force, other configurations may
be employed. The tassel auxiliary part 100 or tassel 300 may be
separated into multiple portions. For example, the looped cord 111
of the tassel auxiliary part 100 shown in FIG. 1(a) may be a cord
that is a single cord around the center but forms loops on both
sides and is provided with a separation part 114 disposed at the
center and separated into multiple portions by a pulling force.
Also, the tassel cord 310 of the string tassel 300 including the
decoration member 306 shown in FIG. 13(b) may be a cord that is a
single cord in the through hole of the decoration member 306 and is
provided with a separation part 114 disposed in the through hole
and separated into multiple portions by a pulling force.
[0182] While, in the embodiments, there has been described the
configuration in which the fall of the protruding shaft 204 from
the base 202 is prevented by disposing the holding cord 218 for
holding the protruding shaft 204 to prevent it from falling on the
floor, between the base 202 and protruding shaft 204, other
configurations may be employed. For example, there may be employed
a configuration in which the fall of the base 202 from the mount
230 is prevented by disposing a holding cord 218 for holding the
base 202 to prevent it from falling on the floor, between the mount
230 and base 202. For another example, there may be employed a
configuration in which the fall of the hooking shaft 206 from the
protruding shaft 204 is prevented by disposing a holding cord 218
for holding the hooking part 206 to prevent it from falling on the
floor, between the protruding shaft 204 and hooking part 206.
[0183] While, in the embodiments, the coupling mechanism is
configured to be decoupled if the load applied to the tassel 300
exceeds 2 kgf, which is the predetermined value, other
configurations may be employed. For example, the coupling mechanism
may be configured to be decoupled if the load applied to the tassel
300 is equal to or more than one of 2 kgf, 2.5 kgf, 3 kgf, 3.5 kgf,
4 kgf, 4.5 kgf, and 5 kgf, or exceeds one thereof.
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST
[0184] 14: cord [0185] 16: coupling part [0186] 19: cord [0187] 23:
cord [0188] 27: first coupling member (male member) [0189] 28:
second coupling member (female member) [0190] 29: first fitting
part (male fitting part) [0191] 30: fitting protrusion [0192] 31:
swelled portion [0193] 32: trough [0194] 33: chamfered edge [0195]
34: second fitting part (female fitting part) [0196] 35: fitting
hole [0197] 37: locking portion [0198] 41: first coupling member
(male member) [0199] 42: second coupling member (female member)
[0200] 45: fitting protrusion [0201] 46: swelled portion [0202] 47:
trough [0203] 48: rotation regulation part [0204] 49a, 49b: opening
[0205] 86a: core [0206] 86b: covering cord [0207] 100: tassel
auxiliary part [0208] 111, 111a, 111b: cord [0209] 114: separation
part [0210] 115: first coupling member (male member) [0211] 116:
second coupling member (female member) [0212] 117: locking groove
[0213] 118: insertion hole [0214] 119: swaging member [0215] 120:
protrusion [0216] 130: tassel auxiliary part [0217] 132: first clip
[0218] 133: bent portion [0219] 134: second clip [0220] 136:
rotating shaft [0221] 137: another wall [0222] 138: insertion part
[0223] 139: cam mechanism [0224] 140a, 140b: guide edge [0225] 142:
tassel hook base (upper and lower parts are omitted) [0226] 144:
tassel hook shaft (cross-section) [0227] 146: cam [0228] 148: wall
[0229] 150: tassel cord [0230] 152: hiding member [0231] 154: tape
[0232] 160: fall prevention collar [0233] 200: tassel hook [0234]
202: base [0235] 203: rotating hook [0236] 204: protruding shaft
[0237] 205: upper side [0238] 206: hooking part [0239] 208:
direction in which hooking part is detached [0240] 209: weight
[0241] 210: front end [0242] 212: fitting recess [0243] 213:
hooking part [0244] 214: fitting protrusion [0245] 215: rotating
mechanism [0246] 216: rotating fitting structure [0247] 217a, 217b:
bearing [0248] 218: holding cord [0249] 219a, 219b: mounting hole
[0250] 220: knot [0251] 227a, 227b: rotating shaft [0252] 229: flat
spring [0253] 230: mount [0254] 231a, 231b: allowance [0255] 232:
slide groove [0256] 233a, 233b: recess [0257] 234: small protrusion
for locking base [0258] 234a, 234b: 234a: tapered surface [0259]
235: hinge [0260] 237a, 237b: receiver [0261] 239a, 239b:
protrusion [0262] 240, 240a, 240b: protruding shaft inserted into
inside of base [0263] 250: direction in which base is fitted into
base [0264] 260: slide direction of base [0265] 300: tassel [0266]
301: seam [0267] 302: tassel main body [0268] 303: area in which no
seam exists [0269] 304: knot [0270] 305: pendant [0271] 306:
decoration member (hiding member) [0272] 308: seam [0273] 310,
310a, 310b: tassel cord [0274] 332: spring end insertion opening
[0275] 400: fixing standing surface [0276] 401: mounting hole
[0277] 500: pulling force [0278] 600: foreign object entry
direction [0279] 702: displacement direction [0280] 800:
displacement mechanism [0281] 900: tassel cord movement direction
[0282] 1000: curtain accessory [0283] 1100: curtain
* * * * *