Abstract: A pop-up ashtray includes a generally rectilinear receiver member, a generally rectilinear ash-pot member defining an open-topped container and adapted for removable mounting recessed within the receiver member, a lid member adapted for overlying the open-topped container defined by the ash-pot member, a cooperative interfitting hinge formed on the receiver member and on the lid member for hingedly mounting the lid member to the receiver member, a spring for urging the ash-pot member in a direction for removal thereof from the receiver member, and a releasable clasp for overcoming the urging force of the spring and releasably holding the ash-pot member recessed within the receiver member.

Abstract: A vertical blind apparatus comprises a top track, a plurality of elongate vanes, and a carrier vane for independently, rotatably and slidably suspending each of the elongate vanes from the top track in side-by-side condition, such that the vanes may be rotated about a given arc relative to the track and also slidably drawn together or apart for opening and closing the blind, and for extending and retracting the blind relative to a window. Each vane carrier includes a resilient vane-receiving clip-like portion for releasably, grippingly engaging a top end portion of a corresponding vane and a glide for suspending the carriers from the track. Each of the vane carriers has oppositely outwardly extending lever arm portions aligned generally in parallel with the plane of the associated vane and generally in parallel with the plane of the associated vane and generally to either side of a vertical central axis thereof.

Abstract: A window shade construction comprises a first pleated shade member having one end thereof coupled to a first header and a second pleated shade member having one end thereof coupled to an opposite end of the first shade member. Cords are operatively coupled to the header and to the first and second shade members for selectively moving either or both of the first and second shade members between a fully collapsed position and a fuly extended position relative to the window frame.

Abstract: A window shade construction for a window having a generally rectangular window frame comprises a pair of flexible cords running substantially from the top to the bottom of the window and attached adjacent respective top and bottom ends of the window frame. Respective top and bottom header members are coupled for slidable movement along the cords. A pleated shade member has a first end coupled to the top header and an opposite end coupled to the bottom header, such that the pleated shade is expandable and collapsible in accordian-like fashion as the top and bottom headers are moved slidably along the cords.

Abstract: A shade construction for a vehicle window having a generally rectangular window frame comprises a pair of flexible cords running respectively from top to bottom edges of the window frame. Substantial portions of these cords are in parallel, spaced apart condition and located adjacent and parallel to opposite lateral sides of the frame. A shade structure comprises a header and a pleated shade member coupled to the header. The pleated shade member is slideably mounted to the pair of cords generally at opposite sides thereof so as to be expandable and collapsible in accordion-like fashion relative to the cords. Mounting structure is provided for slideably mounting the header to the cords, and for directing the cords through the header and into slideable engagement with the pleated shade member.

Abstract: A window blind structure is provided for use in a vehicle such as a van. The window blind structure includes a fixed, upright channel, which is mounted to the window frame of a window in a van by means of upper and lower brackets or fittings. The upper bracket or fitting includes a channel-shaped cap embracing the upper end of the fixed channel of the window blind structure, and has an upstanding leg and an angularly disposed foot for securement to the frame of a van window. The lower or bottom fitting or bracket includes a channel-shaped body slidably interfitting with the lower end of the window blind fixed channel by means of protuberances or splines. Angularly disposed legs on the body may or may not be provided with depending feet. In any event, outwardly directed integral pins are provided for interfitting with a stirrup to be mounted flat against a wall surface of a van window frame.

Abstract: A window blind, preferably used with van windows, is disclosed. The window blind comprises a plurality of slats, and first and second framework members. The first and second framework members are virtually identical and only the first will now be described. The first framework member includes a first and a second sidepiece, and a plurality of struts. Each one of the struts is pivotally connected at one end portion thereof to the first sidepiece, and is pivotally connected at an opposite end portion thereof to the second sidepiece. Each strut is longitudinally spaced from an adjacent strut. Each one of the struts includes means such as indented portions thereof for securing an edge portion of one of the slats thereto. The first sidepiece preferably includes opposite end portions engageable with the window for fixing the first sidepiece of the framework member to the window.

Abstract: A venetian blind and frame unit for vehicles, such as vans, wherein the frame conforms to the shape or curvature of the vehicle wall. The blind is secured within the frame at upper and lower headers thereof and is tensioned so as to substantially conform to the angle of upward and inward inclination of the vehicle side wall. One of the headers includes a projecting pintle which is retractable to permit placement of the header pintles within openings in the frame. The lower header is releasably secured to the lower end of the frame to allow raising of the blind within the frame.

Abstract: A latch for sliding and folding doors including confronting plates mounted on the edge of a door and on a door jamb respectively. One plate has an opening and pivotally mounts a retainer or actuator. The other plate has a latching projection receivable in the opening of said first plate and undercut to accommodate reception of a portion of said actuator in one pivoted position thereof to prevent opening of said door.