Abstract: A self-storing, retractable automobile cover apparatus includes a pair of end plates joined in spaced apart disposition by a plurality of rigid tubes. A tubular reel is rotatably secured between the end plates. A cylindrical housing is secured to one of the end plates, enclosing an electric motor operatively connected to the tubular reel through a ratchet drive assembly. A rechargeable battery and recharging circuit, and a receptacle to connect the recharger to AC utility power are also provided in the cylindrical housing. A fabric car cover is adapted to be wound about the tubular reel, with the free end extending between two of the rigid tubes acting as fixed roller guides. Tension applied to the free end of the cover unwinds the cover from the tubular reel, the ratchet drive rotating freely to feed out the car cover. The apparatus is removably secured to one bumper of the auto, and the free end of the deployed cover is extendable to the other bumper.

Abstract: A self-storing, retractable automobile cover apparatus includes a pair of end plates joined in spaced apart disposition by a plurality of rigid tubes. A tubular reel is rotatably secured between the end plates. A pair of cylindrical housings are each secured to one of the end plates, enclosing a constant force spiral spring connected between the respective end plate and the tubular reel. A fabric car cover is adapted to be wound about the tubular reel, with the free end extending between two of the rigid tubes acting as fixed roller guides. Tension applied to the free end of the cover unwinds the cover from the tubular reel while also winding the two spiral springs. The apparatus is removably secured to one bumper of the auto, and the free end of the deployed cover is releasably hooked to the other bumper.