CA1222689A - Track for blinds - Google Patents
Track for blindsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1222689A CA1222689A CA000457907A CA457907A CA1222689A CA 1222689 A CA1222689 A CA 1222689A CA 000457907 A CA000457907 A CA 000457907A CA 457907 A CA457907 A CA 457907A CA 1222689 A CA1222689 A CA 1222689A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- traveller
- lead
- blind apparatus
- travellers
- track
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
- E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
- E06B9/36—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with vertical lamellae ; Supporting rails therefor
- E06B9/362—Travellers; Lamellae suspension stems
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
- E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
- E06B9/36—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with vertical lamellae ; Supporting rails therefor
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A blind apparatus comprising at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, supports affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaft, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers,forming a group,associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable trans-mission means to a rotation shaft whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connector, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connector, longitudinal control cords attachable to the lead travellers, rotation control cords attached to a rotation shaft, and, a flexible coupling connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
A blind apparatus comprising at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, supports affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaft, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers,forming a group,associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable trans-mission means to a rotation shaft whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connector, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connector, longitudinal control cords attachable to the lead travellers, rotation control cords attached to a rotation shaft, and, a flexible coupling connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
Description
~2~
NATURE OF THE INV NTION
The invention rela-tes to an apparatus for operating blinds, and in particular, the invention relates to an apparatus for operating vertical blinds around a corner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVEN~ION
-Vertical bIinds are well known for use in homes and in offices. Such ~linds generally comprise a plurality of evenly spaced vertical slats, downwardly depending from travellers held in a horizontal track.
The track is affixed to the ceiling or upper casement of a window. Each slat is rotatably attached to a single traveller which is slidable within the track.
Commonly, a horizontal shaft connects all the travellers.
Rotation of the shaft causes, through a suitable means (such as a worm gear) in each traveller,the slats to rotate in unison. Each traveller is connected to one adjacent traveller by suitable connection means whereby, in one direction each traveller can be moved to contact another traveller and in an opposite direction each traveller is spaced apart from an adjacent traveller by a predetermined amount. Suitable control means (such as cords, chains, or shafts) are provided whereby -the travellers can be moved longitudinally along -the track and whereby the shaft can be ro-tated to cause rotation of the vertical sla-ts. Generally, such control means are located at one end of the vertical blind apparatus.
In existin~ vertical blind apparatuses the horizontal track is straight. In order -to have verti.cal blinds on both sides of a corner, for instance in a ;~,P
bay window or in a room having glass sides joining at corners, it is necessary to have a separate vertical blind arrangement along each window. Each vertical blind unit must be operated individually, independently of the other vertical blind arrangements. Each vertical blind arrangement requires its own control cords or shafts.
These requirements add inconvenience and added expense to the vertical bl:ind system. As well, the additional control cords or shafts detract from the aesthe-tic appearance of the window.
It would therefore be advantageous to provide a vertical blind appara-tus which could be operable around corners and which would require only a single control cord or shaft. Furthermore, it would be also advantageous if such an apparatus could be devised to operate around a multiplicity of corners along different lengths of window. Furthermore/ in certain applications it would also be advantageous if the blind apparatus could be oriented in any position including vertically, hori~.ontally or in any other position.
STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION
With a view to overcoming the above disadvan-tages and to providing the above advantages, the inven-tion comprises a blind apparatus comprising at least two -tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, -the tracks defining two opposi-te ends remote Erom such corner, a rotation shaft longi-tudinally :Loca-ted relative -to each track, support means affixed to each track ~or suppor-ting -the rotation ~2689 shaft, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead travel:Ler path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position a-t the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers,forming a group, associated with each lead traveller, -the travellers being sl.idably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaf-t, each -traveller being 1~ connected by suitable transmission means to one of therotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means attachable to the lead travellers, rotation control means attached to a rota-tion shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
The invention achieves the above advan-tages by providing a rotation shaft within the track along the top of each window. Each shaft is connected to an adjacent shaf-t around a corner by a suitable universal flexible coupling means, whereby rotation of one shaft will induce rotation in the o-ther shaft. Furthermore, a lead traveller with the longe~t lead -traveller path is fi~ed to a con-trol cord. The control cord is also provided with pairs of traveller engagement means, one such pair being associated with -the o-ther lead -travellers.
The members of -the pairs of traveller engagement means 122~6~":3 are spaced apart from each other on each side of the lead traveller. The spacing between -the members of each pair is such that all travellers in the vertical blind apparatus will reach the fully opened or the fully closed position at the same time.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particulari-ty in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a be-tter understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which -there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bay window having a vertical blind apparatus according to the invention;
Figure 2 is an expanded perspective view, partly cut-away, illustrating one embodiment of a vertical blind apparatus at a cornerl according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic bottom plan view of a vertical blind appara-tus according to the inven-tion, lllus-trating longitudinal control means;
F'igure ~ is a perspective view of a lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one embodimen-t oE the invention;
Figure 5 is a perspec-tive view of a second lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one ~2;~2~
embodiment of the invention, and, Fi~ure 6 is a perspective view of an alternate lead traveller as i-t may be incorporated into a further embodimen-t of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMsODIMENT
-Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a bay window indicated generally as 10. Bay window 10 comprises three sides - namely, left side 12, front side 14, and right side 16. Left side 12 is joined to front side 14 at corner 18. Similarly, front side 14 and right side 16 are joined at another corner 20. The sides 12, 14 and 16 may each define different lengths. As well, corners 18 and 20 may define different angles. The left side 12 of window 10 includes an upper casement 22. Similarly, sides 14 and 16 include upper casements 24 and 26 respectively~
A vertical blind apparatus, accordin~ to the invention, indicated generally as 28, is affixed to and depends downwardly from upper casements 22, 24 and 26.
Vertical blind apparatus 28 comprises hori-zontal tracks 30, 32 and 3~ affixed respectively to upper casements 22, 24 and 26 and mitered -together at corners 18 and 20. Slidably held within tracks 30, 32 and 34 are a plurality of travellers 36 (see ~igure
NATURE OF THE INV NTION
The invention rela-tes to an apparatus for operating blinds, and in particular, the invention relates to an apparatus for operating vertical blinds around a corner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVEN~ION
-Vertical bIinds are well known for use in homes and in offices. Such ~linds generally comprise a plurality of evenly spaced vertical slats, downwardly depending from travellers held in a horizontal track.
The track is affixed to the ceiling or upper casement of a window. Each slat is rotatably attached to a single traveller which is slidable within the track.
Commonly, a horizontal shaft connects all the travellers.
Rotation of the shaft causes, through a suitable means (such as a worm gear) in each traveller,the slats to rotate in unison. Each traveller is connected to one adjacent traveller by suitable connection means whereby, in one direction each traveller can be moved to contact another traveller and in an opposite direction each traveller is spaced apart from an adjacent traveller by a predetermined amount. Suitable control means (such as cords, chains, or shafts) are provided whereby -the travellers can be moved longitudinally along -the track and whereby the shaft can be ro-tated to cause rotation of the vertical sla-ts. Generally, such control means are located at one end of the vertical blind apparatus.
In existin~ vertical blind apparatuses the horizontal track is straight. In order -to have verti.cal blinds on both sides of a corner, for instance in a ;~,P
bay window or in a room having glass sides joining at corners, it is necessary to have a separate vertical blind arrangement along each window. Each vertical blind unit must be operated individually, independently of the other vertical blind arrangements. Each vertical blind arrangement requires its own control cords or shafts.
These requirements add inconvenience and added expense to the vertical bl:ind system. As well, the additional control cords or shafts detract from the aesthe-tic appearance of the window.
It would therefore be advantageous to provide a vertical blind appara-tus which could be operable around corners and which would require only a single control cord or shaft. Furthermore, it would be also advantageous if such an apparatus could be devised to operate around a multiplicity of corners along different lengths of window. Furthermore/ in certain applications it would also be advantageous if the blind apparatus could be oriented in any position including vertically, hori~.ontally or in any other position.
STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION
With a view to overcoming the above disadvan-tages and to providing the above advantages, the inven-tion comprises a blind apparatus comprising at least two -tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, -the tracks defining two opposi-te ends remote Erom such corner, a rotation shaft longi-tudinally :Loca-ted relative -to each track, support means affixed to each track ~or suppor-ting -the rotation ~2689 shaft, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead travel:Ler path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position a-t the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers,forming a group, associated with each lead traveller, -the travellers being sl.idably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaf-t, each -traveller being 1~ connected by suitable transmission means to one of therotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means attachable to the lead travellers, rotation control means attached to a rota-tion shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
The invention achieves the above advan-tages by providing a rotation shaft within the track along the top of each window. Each shaft is connected to an adjacent shaf-t around a corner by a suitable universal flexible coupling means, whereby rotation of one shaft will induce rotation in the o-ther shaft. Furthermore, a lead traveller with the longe~t lead -traveller path is fi~ed to a con-trol cord. The control cord is also provided with pairs of traveller engagement means, one such pair being associated with -the o-ther lead -travellers.
The members of -the pairs of traveller engagement means 122~6~":3 are spaced apart from each other on each side of the lead traveller. The spacing between -the members of each pair is such that all travellers in the vertical blind apparatus will reach the fully opened or the fully closed position at the same time.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particulari-ty in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a be-tter understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which -there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bay window having a vertical blind apparatus according to the invention;
Figure 2 is an expanded perspective view, partly cut-away, illustrating one embodiment of a vertical blind apparatus at a cornerl according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic bottom plan view of a vertical blind appara-tus according to the inven-tion, lllus-trating longitudinal control means;
F'igure ~ is a perspective view of a lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one embodimen-t oE the invention;
Figure 5 is a perspec-tive view of a second lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one ~2;~2~
embodiment of the invention, and, Fi~ure 6 is a perspective view of an alternate lead traveller as i-t may be incorporated into a further embodimen-t of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMsODIMENT
-Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a bay window indicated generally as 10. Bay window 10 comprises three sides - namely, left side 12, front side 14, and right side 16. Left side 12 is joined to front side 14 at corner 18. Similarly, front side 14 and right side 16 are joined at another corner 20. The sides 12, 14 and 16 may each define different lengths. As well, corners 18 and 20 may define different angles. The left side 12 of window 10 includes an upper casement 22. Similarly, sides 14 and 16 include upper casements 24 and 26 respectively~
A vertical blind apparatus, accordin~ to the invention, indicated generally as 28, is affixed to and depends downwardly from upper casements 22, 24 and 26.
Vertical blind apparatus 28 comprises hori-zontal tracks 30, 32 and 3~ affixed respectively to upper casements 22, 24 and 26 and mitered -together at corners 18 and 20. Slidably held within tracks 30, 32 and 34 are a plurality of travellers 36 (see ~igure
2). Rotatably attached to each traveller 36 is a downwardly depending slat 38. Slat 38 generally com-prises an opaque material, so that when the vertical blincl apparatus 28 is in a closed position light is prevented from en-tering bay window 10.
Travellers 36 slidably support sla-ts 38.
~2~6~39 Furthermore, travellers 36 are interconnec-ted by sui-table connection means, as discussed below, for longitudinally moving the travellers 36.
For convenient operation, free ends 54a and 56a of longitudinal control cords 54 and 56 depend from one end of track 34 at one end of vertical blind apparatus 28. ~ suitable pulley (not shown) may be provided at such end to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. Cords 54 and 56 are connected, as disclosed herein, to a lead traveller (as, for example, lead traveller 36a or 36b in Figure 3) in each track 30, 32 and 34. At an opposite end of vertical blind apparatus 28, cords 54 and 56 are joined together and, in fact, may be integral with each other. A suitable pulley (not shown) may ; be provided at such opposite end to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. The free ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56, respectively, may be -tied or o-therwise connected together and, in fact, may be integral with each other.
Cords 54 and 56 may be pulled to move travellers 36 longitudinally within tracks 30, 32 and 34. Such longitudinal movement causes slats 38 to be drawn sideways between open and closed positions, as well as -throu~h intermediate positions therebetween.
~n order to rotate sla-ts 38, -travellers 36 are each cornected to a rota-tion shaft 40 (see Figure 2), as described below. In order -to ro-tate shaft 40 a suitable rotaticn con-trol means, such as cord 41, is provided. Cord 41 depends from shaft 40, preferably ~ 22268~
at the same end of track 34 as free ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56. Suitable means (such as a pulley 43) i5 provided whereby movement of cord 41 will rotate shaft 40. It will be appreciated -that other control means, such as chains, shafts or the like, may be used.
Rotation transmission means, typically worm gears (not shown~, are incorporated in each traveller 36, and connected between the rotatian shaft 40 and respective slats 38. Rotatlon of such worm gear rotates the slats 38.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are movable along lead traveller paths 35 and 33, respectively (indicated in phantom in Figure 3). Paths 35 and 33 have pre-determined path lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, such path lengths correspond generally to -the length of the tracks 32 and 34 (with an allowance for the length of the collapsed travellers 36 in the open position). However, the path lengths could be re-stricted to any fraction of the lengths of the tracks 32 and 34. Such restriction may b~ necessary, for example, in the situation where more than one lead traveller is provided in the same -track (as in the case of a centre pull opening or multiple opening vertical blind apparatus).
All of the above described features are well known in -the art. It is no-t intended -to restric-t the scope of the invention to the par-ticular wlndow arrangement or track arrangement illustrated. Rather it is the in-tention that the scope of the inventio~
6~39 cover any application of a vertical blind apparatus defining regular or rounded corners. Similarly, it is not intended to restrict -the scope of the invention to the particular track and traveller assemblies disclosed. Rather, it is the intention that the scope of the invention include any trac]c design and traveller design.
Referring to Figure 2, -there are illustrated tracks 32 and 34 meeting at a corner,indicated generally as 20. Figure 2 provides an expanded view of corner 20 for ease of understanding. Tracks 32 and 34 are affixed by any suitable means to upper casemen-ts 24 and 26, respectively (see Figure 1). Travellers 36 are slidably held within tracks 32 and 34. Each traveller 36 includes a rotatable slat shaft 37. A slat 38 is aEfixed to each slat shaf-t 37.
A rotation shaft 40 extends along the length of each track 32 and 34 from one end to the other.
Shaft 40 is rotatably supported by a suitable support means, such as bearing blocks 42 affixed a-t each end of tracks 32 and 34. Bearing block 42 defines a suitable hole allowing shaft 40 to extend there~
-through. Similarly, each traveller 36 defines a suitable opening allowing shaft 40 to pass therethrough.
A suitable gear or other ~an5mission means (no-t shown) is includecl ir. each traveller 36 and is adapted to cooperate with shaft 40, whereby rotation of shaf-t 40 will induce each sla-t snaEt 37 to ro-tate. Rotation of sla-t shaEts 37 :in unison will cause sla-ts 38 -to either open or close, as cl~sired. In order to rotate ~22~g ~
sha~t 40, a sui-table pulley 43, or other means, may be attached at one end of shaft 40 and may be operable by a suitable cord, chain or other means (see cord 41 in E'igure 1).
Adjacent shafts 40 are connected together at corner 20 by flexible coupling means 44. The bearing blocks 42 are arranged at either end of the flexible coupling means 44 to locate the ends of the shafts ~0 adjacent the flexible coupling means 44. In the illustrated embodiment, flexible coupling means 44 comprises a cylindrical helical spring 46 affixed to collars 48 at each end. Collars 48 in turn are affixed b~ suitable means, such as set screw 50, to each shaft 40. For protection and for ease of rotation, washers 52 may be inserted in place between collars 48 and bearing blocks 42. Each collar 48 defines a boss 48a extending therefrom in order to assis-t in affixing spring 46 to collars 48. The spring 46 may be wrapped around and affixed to the bosses 48a by suitable means.
Other flexible coupling means may be used.
For example,a spring, a universal joint, or a series of universal joints, a flexible hose (such as a rubber hose) or a Elexible cable (such as is used in a speedome-ter cable) may be used.
As described below, cords 54 and 56 are used -to move -travellers 36 longi-tudinally within tracks 32 and 34 in order -to open and close -t~ vertical blind appara-tus 28. ~n order to allow ao!~s 54 and 56 to pass wi-thout restriction around corner 20, a dual pulley arrange-ment 58 is affixed between tracks 34 and 32 at corner ~l2~2689 20. Dual pulley 58 includes two pulley wheels 58a, rotatable in opposite directions. Cord 54 lies within the groove of one such pulley wheel 58a and Cord 56 lies within the groove of the other pulley wheel 58a.
In other embodiments it may not be necessary to use a dual pulley 58. For instance, a smooth rounded plate, effectively rounding off corner 20 or a bent hollow tube may be found suitable. However, it has been found that upon occasion such plates or tubes may cause cords 54 and 56 to bind together, thereby interfering with the smooth functioning of the vertical blind apparatus. It has been found that the dual pulley arrangement is preferable.
Referring to Figure 3, a schematic plan view of tracks 32 and 34 meeting at corner 20 is pro-vided. The outline of -tracks 32 and 34 is shown in phantom. Travellers 36 are constrained to move within tracks 32 and 34. Lead traveller pa-th 35 in track 34 is somewhat longer than lead traveller path 33 in track 32. I'he vertical blind apparatus 28 of Figure 3 is shown in -the open position.
In order -to allow -the vertical blind apparatus 28 to open and close evenly, even though paths 33 and 35 are of different lengths, cords 54 and 56 are pro-vided. Cords 54 and 56 are integral with each other, or -tied together,a-t one end. At the o-ther end the Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56 depend downwardly.
A human oper~tor may open and close the blinds by pulling on the free ends 54a and 56a oE cords 54 and 56.
~26~3 Cord 56 is attached to a lead traveller 36a having the longest path, in this case pa-th 35. Cord 54 is attachable, as described below, to a lead traveller 36b in path 33, the shorter path.
Referring to Figure 4, lead trav~ller 36a is illustrated. One means of attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a is to attach traveller engagement means 64 to cord 56 be-tween two panels 66 and 68 of traveller 36a. Panels 66 and 68 define suitable openings allow-ing cord 56 to pass therethrough. When cord 56 is pulled in one direction or the o-ther, engagement means 64 will engage and abut against either panel 66 or panel 68, thereby causing lead traveller 36a -to move.
Engagement means 6~ may comprise a spherical ball which is crimped about cord 56. Other means of attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a may be used. For example, cord 56 may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion of traveller 36a.
Referring to Figure 5, lead traveller 36b is shown. Traveller 36b may include panels 70 and 72, each panel 70 and 72 defining an opening 74 therein. Cord 54 passes through openirlgs 74.
Between panels 70 and 72 a washer 76 is loosely suspended around cord 54. The ou-ter diameter of washer 76 is sufficiently large that washer 76 cannot pass through openings 7 :.. Wi-th the vertical blind apparatus 28 in -the fully -~pen position and cord 54 being pulled -tau-t anc~ abou-t -to commence closing ver-tical blind appara-tu3 28, -traveller engagement means 80 is affixed to cord 5~ adjacent panel 72.
~22Z6~
Similarly, engagemen-t means 78 is affixed to cord 56, but is spaced apart from engagement means 80 by an amount about equal to the diEference in length between paths 35 and 33. Engagement means 78 and 80 may comprise spherical balls or beads which are crimped about cord 5~. The diameters OrC engagement means 78 and 80 are sufficiently small to pass through openings 74 in panels 72 and 70, but are also sufficiently large that they may not pass through a central aperture 77 of washer 76.
Cords 54 and 56 are only attached or attachable to the lead travellers 36a and 36b.
Cords 5~ and 56 pass around or through -.he o-ther travellers 36 (at sui.table openings provided therein) and a-~-e not attached or attachable thereto.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are each connected to an adjacent traveller 36 (which in turn is connected to a train of subsequent slider .~ .
hl~cks 36) by suitable connector means 82.
Connector means 82 is operable whereby when lead traveller 36a or 36b is moved a predetermined distance in the closing direction, such traveller 36a or 36b will commence pulling the subsequent travel.ler 36. When the lead -traveller 36a or 36b is moved in an openincJ direction, -the connec-tor means 82 is operable to allow the lead traveller 36a or 36b to approach and abu-t acJains-t an adjacent traveller 36. Thereafter fur-ther movement of leacl travel:le:r 36a or 36b wi.ll also ca~se -travellers 36 to move c,s w~ll. Subsequen-t ~2Z6891 travellers 36 are ei-ther opened or closed in corres-ponding fashion by interconnecting connector means 82 linkiny adjacen-t travellers 36.
In the illustrated embodiments, connector means 82 comprises a stiff strip 84 having a shank 86 and a wide head 87. Each traveller 36 defines an aperture 88. Strip 84 of an adjacent traveller 36 extends through aperture 88. The shank 86 is slidable within aperture 88. The head 87 may be inserted through aperture 88 from one direction, but cannot be removed therefrom in an opposite direction.
In operation, for ease of description it is assumed that the vertical blind apparatus 28 commences in the open position (as shown in Figure
Travellers 36 slidably support sla-ts 38.
~2~6~39 Furthermore, travellers 36 are interconnec-ted by sui-table connection means, as discussed below, for longitudinally moving the travellers 36.
For convenient operation, free ends 54a and 56a of longitudinal control cords 54 and 56 depend from one end of track 34 at one end of vertical blind apparatus 28. ~ suitable pulley (not shown) may be provided at such end to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. Cords 54 and 56 are connected, as disclosed herein, to a lead traveller (as, for example, lead traveller 36a or 36b in Figure 3) in each track 30, 32 and 34. At an opposite end of vertical blind apparatus 28, cords 54 and 56 are joined together and, in fact, may be integral with each other. A suitable pulley (not shown) may ; be provided at such opposite end to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. The free ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56, respectively, may be -tied or o-therwise connected together and, in fact, may be integral with each other.
Cords 54 and 56 may be pulled to move travellers 36 longitudinally within tracks 30, 32 and 34. Such longitudinal movement causes slats 38 to be drawn sideways between open and closed positions, as well as -throu~h intermediate positions therebetween.
~n order to rotate sla-ts 38, -travellers 36 are each cornected to a rota-tion shaft 40 (see Figure 2), as described below. In order -to ro-tate shaft 40 a suitable rotaticn con-trol means, such as cord 41, is provided. Cord 41 depends from shaft 40, preferably ~ 22268~
at the same end of track 34 as free ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56. Suitable means (such as a pulley 43) i5 provided whereby movement of cord 41 will rotate shaft 40. It will be appreciated -that other control means, such as chains, shafts or the like, may be used.
Rotation transmission means, typically worm gears (not shown~, are incorporated in each traveller 36, and connected between the rotatian shaft 40 and respective slats 38. Rotatlon of such worm gear rotates the slats 38.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are movable along lead traveller paths 35 and 33, respectively (indicated in phantom in Figure 3). Paths 35 and 33 have pre-determined path lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, such path lengths correspond generally to -the length of the tracks 32 and 34 (with an allowance for the length of the collapsed travellers 36 in the open position). However, the path lengths could be re-stricted to any fraction of the lengths of the tracks 32 and 34. Such restriction may b~ necessary, for example, in the situation where more than one lead traveller is provided in the same -track (as in the case of a centre pull opening or multiple opening vertical blind apparatus).
All of the above described features are well known in -the art. It is no-t intended -to restric-t the scope of the invention to the par-ticular wlndow arrangement or track arrangement illustrated. Rather it is the in-tention that the scope of the inventio~
6~39 cover any application of a vertical blind apparatus defining regular or rounded corners. Similarly, it is not intended to restrict -the scope of the invention to the particular track and traveller assemblies disclosed. Rather, it is the intention that the scope of the invention include any trac]c design and traveller design.
Referring to Figure 2, -there are illustrated tracks 32 and 34 meeting at a corner,indicated generally as 20. Figure 2 provides an expanded view of corner 20 for ease of understanding. Tracks 32 and 34 are affixed by any suitable means to upper casemen-ts 24 and 26, respectively (see Figure 1). Travellers 36 are slidably held within tracks 32 and 34. Each traveller 36 includes a rotatable slat shaft 37. A slat 38 is aEfixed to each slat shaf-t 37.
A rotation shaft 40 extends along the length of each track 32 and 34 from one end to the other.
Shaft 40 is rotatably supported by a suitable support means, such as bearing blocks 42 affixed a-t each end of tracks 32 and 34. Bearing block 42 defines a suitable hole allowing shaft 40 to extend there~
-through. Similarly, each traveller 36 defines a suitable opening allowing shaft 40 to pass therethrough.
A suitable gear or other ~an5mission means (no-t shown) is includecl ir. each traveller 36 and is adapted to cooperate with shaft 40, whereby rotation of shaf-t 40 will induce each sla-t snaEt 37 to ro-tate. Rotation of sla-t shaEts 37 :in unison will cause sla-ts 38 -to either open or close, as cl~sired. In order to rotate ~22~g ~
sha~t 40, a sui-table pulley 43, or other means, may be attached at one end of shaft 40 and may be operable by a suitable cord, chain or other means (see cord 41 in E'igure 1).
Adjacent shafts 40 are connected together at corner 20 by flexible coupling means 44. The bearing blocks 42 are arranged at either end of the flexible coupling means 44 to locate the ends of the shafts ~0 adjacent the flexible coupling means 44. In the illustrated embodiment, flexible coupling means 44 comprises a cylindrical helical spring 46 affixed to collars 48 at each end. Collars 48 in turn are affixed b~ suitable means, such as set screw 50, to each shaft 40. For protection and for ease of rotation, washers 52 may be inserted in place between collars 48 and bearing blocks 42. Each collar 48 defines a boss 48a extending therefrom in order to assis-t in affixing spring 46 to collars 48. The spring 46 may be wrapped around and affixed to the bosses 48a by suitable means.
Other flexible coupling means may be used.
For example,a spring, a universal joint, or a series of universal joints, a flexible hose (such as a rubber hose) or a Elexible cable (such as is used in a speedome-ter cable) may be used.
As described below, cords 54 and 56 are used -to move -travellers 36 longi-tudinally within tracks 32 and 34 in order -to open and close -t~ vertical blind appara-tus 28. ~n order to allow ao!~s 54 and 56 to pass wi-thout restriction around corner 20, a dual pulley arrange-ment 58 is affixed between tracks 34 and 32 at corner ~l2~2689 20. Dual pulley 58 includes two pulley wheels 58a, rotatable in opposite directions. Cord 54 lies within the groove of one such pulley wheel 58a and Cord 56 lies within the groove of the other pulley wheel 58a.
In other embodiments it may not be necessary to use a dual pulley 58. For instance, a smooth rounded plate, effectively rounding off corner 20 or a bent hollow tube may be found suitable. However, it has been found that upon occasion such plates or tubes may cause cords 54 and 56 to bind together, thereby interfering with the smooth functioning of the vertical blind apparatus. It has been found that the dual pulley arrangement is preferable.
Referring to Figure 3, a schematic plan view of tracks 32 and 34 meeting at corner 20 is pro-vided. The outline of -tracks 32 and 34 is shown in phantom. Travellers 36 are constrained to move within tracks 32 and 34. Lead traveller pa-th 35 in track 34 is somewhat longer than lead traveller path 33 in track 32. I'he vertical blind apparatus 28 of Figure 3 is shown in -the open position.
In order -to allow -the vertical blind apparatus 28 to open and close evenly, even though paths 33 and 35 are of different lengths, cords 54 and 56 are pro-vided. Cords 54 and 56 are integral with each other, or -tied together,a-t one end. At the o-ther end the Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56 depend downwardly.
A human oper~tor may open and close the blinds by pulling on the free ends 54a and 56a oE cords 54 and 56.
~26~3 Cord 56 is attached to a lead traveller 36a having the longest path, in this case pa-th 35. Cord 54 is attachable, as described below, to a lead traveller 36b in path 33, the shorter path.
Referring to Figure 4, lead trav~ller 36a is illustrated. One means of attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a is to attach traveller engagement means 64 to cord 56 be-tween two panels 66 and 68 of traveller 36a. Panels 66 and 68 define suitable openings allow-ing cord 56 to pass therethrough. When cord 56 is pulled in one direction or the o-ther, engagement means 64 will engage and abut against either panel 66 or panel 68, thereby causing lead traveller 36a -to move.
Engagement means 6~ may comprise a spherical ball which is crimped about cord 56. Other means of attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a may be used. For example, cord 56 may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion of traveller 36a.
Referring to Figure 5, lead traveller 36b is shown. Traveller 36b may include panels 70 and 72, each panel 70 and 72 defining an opening 74 therein. Cord 54 passes through openirlgs 74.
Between panels 70 and 72 a washer 76 is loosely suspended around cord 54. The ou-ter diameter of washer 76 is sufficiently large that washer 76 cannot pass through openings 7 :.. Wi-th the vertical blind apparatus 28 in -the fully -~pen position and cord 54 being pulled -tau-t anc~ abou-t -to commence closing ver-tical blind appara-tu3 28, -traveller engagement means 80 is affixed to cord 5~ adjacent panel 72.
~22Z6~
Similarly, engagemen-t means 78 is affixed to cord 56, but is spaced apart from engagement means 80 by an amount about equal to the diEference in length between paths 35 and 33. Engagement means 78 and 80 may comprise spherical balls or beads which are crimped about cord 5~. The diameters OrC engagement means 78 and 80 are sufficiently small to pass through openings 74 in panels 72 and 70, but are also sufficiently large that they may not pass through a central aperture 77 of washer 76.
Cords 54 and 56 are only attached or attachable to the lead travellers 36a and 36b.
Cords 5~ and 56 pass around or through -.he o-ther travellers 36 (at sui.table openings provided therein) and a-~-e not attached or attachable thereto.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are each connected to an adjacent traveller 36 (which in turn is connected to a train of subsequent slider .~ .
hl~cks 36) by suitable connector means 82.
Connector means 82 is operable whereby when lead traveller 36a or 36b is moved a predetermined distance in the closing direction, such traveller 36a or 36b will commence pulling the subsequent travel.ler 36. When the lead -traveller 36a or 36b is moved in an openincJ direction, -the connec-tor means 82 is operable to allow the lead traveller 36a or 36b to approach and abu-t acJains-t an adjacent traveller 36. Thereafter fur-ther movement of leacl travel:le:r 36a or 36b wi.ll also ca~se -travellers 36 to move c,s w~ll. Subsequen-t ~2Z6891 travellers 36 are ei-ther opened or closed in corres-ponding fashion by interconnecting connector means 82 linkiny adjacen-t travellers 36.
In the illustrated embodiments, connector means 82 comprises a stiff strip 84 having a shank 86 and a wide head 87. Each traveller 36 defines an aperture 88. Strip 84 of an adjacent traveller 36 extends through aperture 88. The shank 86 is slidable within aperture 88. The head 87 may be inserted through aperture 88 from one direction, but cannot be removed therefrom in an opposite direction.
In operation, for ease of description it is assumed that the vertical blind apparatus 28 commences in the open position (as shown in Figure
3). In order to close the vertical blind apparatus 28, the human operator pulls cord 54. Cord 54 in turn commences to pull cord 56 and lead traveller 36a toward the closed position. Cords 54 and 56 mo~e in o~posite directions. Dual pulley arrangement 58 allows cords 54 and 56 to move in opposite directions relative to each other around corner 20 without binding. Cord 54 moves loosely throuyh apertures 74 in lead traveller 36b Lead traveller 36b remains in the fully open posi-tion.
As lead traveller 36a reaches a predetermined spaced apart distance from a subsequent traveller 36, -the connec-tor means 82 between such -travellers 36a and 36 commences to pull adjacen-t traveller 36 toward the closed posi-tion.
As cord 54 is pulled -through apertures 74 -~Z~Z~;~3~3 `
and 77, a point is reachecl where traveller engayement means 78 passes through the first opening 74 and con-tacts the edge of opening 77. Thereafter, washer 76 is pulled toward panel 72. Washer 76 then abuts against panel 72. At this position, lead travellers 36a and 36b both have the same distance to travel in order to reach the fully closed posi-tion.
As cord 54 is pulled further towards the closed position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b move toward the closed position. Both travellers 36a and 36b pull by connector means 82 a group or train of travellers 36 therebehind.
At the fully closed position travellers 36 are spaced apart along the length of tracks 32 and 34 according to -the lengths of the various connecter means 82. In order to close the slats 38, a rotation shaft 40 is rotated hy -the suitable rotation contro].
means provided (but not shown in detail). For example, cord 41 may be pulled to rotate pulley 43 and to rotate shaft 40. As one shaft 40 rotates, -the flexible coupling means 44 will also rotate therewith, causing the other shaft 40 to also rotate. In such fashion, the rotation of one shaft 40 is transmi-tted around corner 20. The rotation of shafts 40 causes the rotation of slat shaf-ts 37 and sla-ts 33 to -the closed position -through the suitable -transmission means (no-t shown) provided :in each traveller 36. The vertical blind apparatus 2~ according to the invention is now in -the fully closed posi-tion.
In order to open the blinds the ro-tation ~L2~;~6~
of shafts 40 is reversed Subsequently, when the slats 38 are in the open position, cord 56 is now pulled to open the ver-tical blind apparatus 28. The pulling of cord 56 causes engagemen-t means 78 to be released from contact with washer 76. Furthermore, because cord 56 is tied to or integral with cord 54, lead traveller 36a commences to move toward -the open position. As ~ead traveller 36a continues -to move toward the open position, connec-tor means 82 between traveller 36a and an adjacent traveller 36 collapses, or otherwise allows lead traveller 36a to move closer towards such adjacent traveller 36.
As cord 56 continues to be pulled, engage-ment means 78 passes outwardly through opening 74 in panel 70. Lead traveller 36b, however, remains in the fully closed position. Lead traveller 36a eventually will contact adjacent traveller 36, and therea~ter will cause both travellers 36a and 36 to move toward the open position.
Eventually, engagement means 80 will pass through opening 74 in panel 72. Engagement means 80 will continue to be pulled until it con-tacts washer 76 and thereaf-ter will move washer 76 toward panel 70, until washer 76 abuts against panel 70. At such position, lead traveller 36b will commence movement toward the open posi-tion. At ~uch position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b will have -to travel an equal distance to the fully open position.
As lead traveller 36b continues -to move ~2~;26~39 toward the open position, a connector means 82 between -traveller 36b and an adjacent traveller 36 will collapse or otherwise allow traveller 36b to move closer to traveller 36. Eventually, traveller 36b will con-tact traveller 36 and thereafter, cord 56 will operate to pull both travellers 36b and 36 -toward the open position.
In such fashion, all of travellers 36 collapse against each other and the vertical blind apparatus 28 returns to the fully open position.
It will b~ appreciated that if the closing direction o~ track 34 were-the same as that of track 32, engagemen-t means 78 and 80 would be a-ttached to cord 56. Furthermore, cord 56 would pass through openings 74 in panels 70 and 72 and through opening 77 in washer 76.
Similarly, the traveller engagement means 64, 78 and 80 will be attached to cords 54 and 56 - depending on the specific desired vertical blind arran~ement. By suitably positioning such engagement means 64, 78 and 80 and by providing suitable lead travellers, it is possible to design any common vertical blind arrangement, such as normal opening, inverted opening, center pull opening, inverted center pull opening, multiple opening and double center pull opening apparatuses as wel:L as other ~eslgns.
In Eurther embodimen-ts, a vertical blind appara-tus may include a multiplici-ty of corners and tracks of differen-t :Lengths. In such an appara-tus, cord 54 is ~ixed to a lead -traveller having the ~22~j8~ `
longe.st path length. ~here may conceivably be more than one lead -traveller having the same, but longest, path length. Cord 54 is also fixed to such other lead travellers, as well. Pairs of engagement means are attached to either cord 54 or 56, depending on the desired direction for opening and closing the vertical blind apparatus, on each side of the other lead travellers, having other shorter paths. The distance between the members of each pair of engagement means is equal to the difference in length between such other path and the longest path. The engagement means in each pair is specifically positioned, as described above.
In a further embodiment, if all lead traveller paths have the same length, -the cords 54 and 56 are simply fixed to -the lead travellers. They may, for example, be attached by the means shown in Figure 4 or they may simply be tied to or wrapped around a por-tion of the lead traveller.
In a further embodimen-t, a lead traveller may have a design different from other travellers.
The embodiment of E`igures 3 to 5 illustrates lead travellers identical -to other travellers. Such an arrangement is convenient for -the manufacture of the blind apparatus. Ilowever, :in certain instances a lead traveller with specla] different characteris-tics may be desired.
Figure 6 -llus-trates one such alterna-te embodiment for a lead traveller 90. Lead -traveller ~2~
90 defines only one panel 92 which allows cord 5~ to pass therethrough at an opening 94. Engayement means 78 and 80 are unable -to pass through opening 94.
Enyagement means 78 and B0 are separated by a distance about equal to the difference in lengths of the longest traveller path and the path of lead traveller 90 plus the thickness o panel 92. Lead traveller 90 may not include a slat shaft and may not have a slat affixed thereto. Furthermore, lead traveller 90 may not have a collapsible connection means connecting it to an adjacent traveller 36. Rather, lead -traveller 90 may be rigidly fixed in close proximi-ty to an adjacen-t traveller 36.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom oE
the vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously. By using opposed pairs of tracks to support -the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, includiny a vertical position, a horizon-tal position or any position there-between.
Having described what is believed to be -the best mode by which -the invention may be per-formed, it will be seen tha-t the invention may be particularly de~ined as follows:
~26~9 A blind apparatus comprising, at least -two tracks having adjacent ends me~ting at a corner defined therebetween, -the -tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner, a rotation shaft longi-tudinally loca-ted relative to each trac~, support means affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaEt, at leas-t one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of pre-de-termined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers, form-ing a group, associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidablv received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means -to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of -the ro-tation shaf-t, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacen-t -travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacen-t traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means attachable to the lead travellers, ro-tation control means attached -to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connec-ting adjacent rota-tion shaf-ts at the corner.
i 1~2 SUPPLEMENTARY DI~CI;OSU~E
_ ~ igure 7 is a perspective view o~ a Eurther embodiment of slidin~ clu-tch; and, Figures 8a and 8b are exploded, and perspec-tive illustrations o~ a fur-ther embodiment for joining the tracks at the corner.
According to a further embodiment the use of fixed connectors on beads 64, 78 and 80 may be dispensed with.
,.~
Instead, the cords may be gripped by clutch devices associated with the lead travellers in each group.
These devices provide a form of sliding frictional grip on the cord so that the locations of the lead travellers can be self-adjusting.
One form of such a clutch device is shown in Figure 7.
It will be seen to comprise a generally channel-shaped body portion 100 having a back portion 102. Side walls 104, 106 and 108, 110 ex-tend from bac~ por-tion 102.
A generally rectangular no-tch is formed between walls 104 and 108, and 106 and 110 respec-tively, for reasons to be described.
An adjustment screw 112 is mounted in wall 104, and carries a pressure shoe 114. A guide groove 116 is formed in wall 106. Groove 116 and shoe 114 register wi-th one ano-ther so as to embrace a cord on opposi-te sides.
By sui-tably adjusting the screw 112, a pressure can be applied to a cord between shoe 11~ and groove 116. This pressure can be regulated so as -to produce -the dcsired amoun-t of friction.
2~g Other forms o~ clu-tch devices can be provided.
~or example, a clutch device could simply be an opening o a restricted size, in a traveller, or in a device such as a connector bead 64, 78 or 80, or even a washer 76.
ALl could be made to fit on the cord with a frictional sliding grip.
In operation in this embodiment, all lead travellers would star-t to move in unison. However those travellers in small groups would come to rest earlier than those in larger groups. The clutch devices would then allow the cords to slip so that the longest lead traveller could continue to move.
The clutch 100 is so designed that it can be used with various difEerent makes oE traveller. With one make of traveller, the no-tch 111 can receive the lead traveller within it. In this way, movement of the cord in either direction will cause the lead traveller ! -to move.
The clutch 100 can be associated in other ways wi-th other Eorms of travellers which are now in use, and which form no part of this disclosure being in any event well-known in the art.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom of the ver-tical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simul-taneous:Ly. By using opposed pairs oE -tracks to support the slats, the blind appara-tus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal posi-tion or any pOsitiOIl therebe-tween.
.~, ~226~
In accordance wi-th a further embodiment the corners o-f the -tracks may be joined, by means of the corner insert member illustrated generally in Figures 8a and 8b.
I'he corner insert member is indicated generally as 130, and comprises right and left hand body members 132 and :L34 hinged together by pins 136.
The body member 132 will be seen to comprise upper and lower hinged walls 138, 140, in spaced apart parallel planes, and joined by a junction wall 142.
Walls 138 and 140 define hinge holes 144 to receive pins 136.
At the opposite ends of walls 138, 140, upper and lower track connector walls 146 and 148 extend outwardly. Walls 146-148 are located in parallel spaced apart planes, beiny offset inwardly with respect to the-planes of walls 138-140 for reasons to be ; described. A side junction wall 150 extends between walls 146-148, which lies in a plane ofEset inwardly with respect to side wall 142 of body 132.
An end wall 152 extends between -the ends of walls 146, 148 and 150.
A cord guide opening 154 is formed in wall 152, and a rod guide opening 156 is also ~ormed in wall 152.
A pair o~ locating fingers 158 extend from opposi-te sides o-f wall 152.
Body 134 defines the same componen-ts, and these are therefore given the same numbers as in -the case of body 132. The only exception is that the walls 138-140 are formed so as to interfit with one ~z~
another in the two bodies 132-134, whereby to overlap and permit the pins 136 to pass throu~h openin~s 1~4.
In order to guide the cords, around -the corner, a corner guide :Erame 160 (Figure 8b~ is provided, having two fastenin~ flan~es 162, extending ~rom one end thereof at an obtuse angle, sliding into each end of the tracks.
Pulleys 164 are mounted on a common shaft 166 within frame 160.
In operation, where it is desired to join two pieces of track at a corner, the ends of the two pieces of track are cut square, and the two pieces of track are then slid onto the walls 146, 1~8, 150 on each of bodies 132 and 13~.
The locating members 158 fit within portions of the track The walls 138, 1~0 will then be left extending out of the two ends of the track.
The two portions of -track are -then swung about the pins 136 until the correct anyle is loca-ted.
The frame 160 ~s then introduced into posi-tion, and the two 1anges 162 are secured permanen-tly to the walls 138 on -the bodies 132/ 134 by means of screws (not shown) or other suitable fastening means.
The control cords and the control sha:E-t and its flexible junc-tion member are then introduced -through the openings in the walls 152, and are assembled -together, with the con-trol cords running around the pulleys 16~.
If desired, a corner trim plate (no-t shown) may be a-ttached between the two portions of -track to cover the corner member 130 i.:E desired.
2;~6~
It will of course be appreciated that while the corner junc-tion member 130 is indica-ted as two separate parts hinged -together by means of a pin, in accordance with well~known plas-tic forming techniques, plastic structures can be Eormed of wha-t is known as a "self-hinge" being a Elexible portion of a plastic formed integrally with the plastic structure by means of which two portions may be hinged or swung relative to one another.
Clearly, such a well-known forming technique could be used in the present case, with only minor modifications.
The foregoing is a description of a preEerred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come within the scope of -the appended claims.
As lead traveller 36a reaches a predetermined spaced apart distance from a subsequent traveller 36, -the connec-tor means 82 between such -travellers 36a and 36 commences to pull adjacen-t traveller 36 toward the closed posi-tion.
As cord 54 is pulled -through apertures 74 -~Z~Z~;~3~3 `
and 77, a point is reachecl where traveller engayement means 78 passes through the first opening 74 and con-tacts the edge of opening 77. Thereafter, washer 76 is pulled toward panel 72. Washer 76 then abuts against panel 72. At this position, lead travellers 36a and 36b both have the same distance to travel in order to reach the fully closed posi-tion.
As cord 54 is pulled further towards the closed position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b move toward the closed position. Both travellers 36a and 36b pull by connector means 82 a group or train of travellers 36 therebehind.
At the fully closed position travellers 36 are spaced apart along the length of tracks 32 and 34 according to -the lengths of the various connecter means 82. In order to close the slats 38, a rotation shaft 40 is rotated hy -the suitable rotation contro].
means provided (but not shown in detail). For example, cord 41 may be pulled to rotate pulley 43 and to rotate shaft 40. As one shaft 40 rotates, -the flexible coupling means 44 will also rotate therewith, causing the other shaft 40 to also rotate. In such fashion, the rotation of one shaft 40 is transmi-tted around corner 20. The rotation of shafts 40 causes the rotation of slat shaf-ts 37 and sla-ts 33 to -the closed position -through the suitable -transmission means (no-t shown) provided :in each traveller 36. The vertical blind apparatus 2~ according to the invention is now in -the fully closed posi-tion.
In order to open the blinds the ro-tation ~L2~;~6~
of shafts 40 is reversed Subsequently, when the slats 38 are in the open position, cord 56 is now pulled to open the ver-tical blind apparatus 28. The pulling of cord 56 causes engagemen-t means 78 to be released from contact with washer 76. Furthermore, because cord 56 is tied to or integral with cord 54, lead traveller 36a commences to move toward -the open position. As ~ead traveller 36a continues -to move toward the open position, connec-tor means 82 between traveller 36a and an adjacent traveller 36 collapses, or otherwise allows lead traveller 36a to move closer towards such adjacent traveller 36.
As cord 56 continues to be pulled, engage-ment means 78 passes outwardly through opening 74 in panel 70. Lead traveller 36b, however, remains in the fully closed position. Lead traveller 36a eventually will contact adjacent traveller 36, and therea~ter will cause both travellers 36a and 36 to move toward the open position.
Eventually, engagement means 80 will pass through opening 74 in panel 72. Engagement means 80 will continue to be pulled until it con-tacts washer 76 and thereaf-ter will move washer 76 toward panel 70, until washer 76 abuts against panel 70. At such position, lead traveller 36b will commence movement toward the open posi-tion. At ~uch position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b will have -to travel an equal distance to the fully open position.
As lead traveller 36b continues -to move ~2~;26~39 toward the open position, a connector means 82 between -traveller 36b and an adjacent traveller 36 will collapse or otherwise allow traveller 36b to move closer to traveller 36. Eventually, traveller 36b will con-tact traveller 36 and thereafter, cord 56 will operate to pull both travellers 36b and 36 -toward the open position.
In such fashion, all of travellers 36 collapse against each other and the vertical blind apparatus 28 returns to the fully open position.
It will b~ appreciated that if the closing direction o~ track 34 were-the same as that of track 32, engagemen-t means 78 and 80 would be a-ttached to cord 56. Furthermore, cord 56 would pass through openings 74 in panels 70 and 72 and through opening 77 in washer 76.
Similarly, the traveller engagement means 64, 78 and 80 will be attached to cords 54 and 56 - depending on the specific desired vertical blind arran~ement. By suitably positioning such engagement means 64, 78 and 80 and by providing suitable lead travellers, it is possible to design any common vertical blind arrangement, such as normal opening, inverted opening, center pull opening, inverted center pull opening, multiple opening and double center pull opening apparatuses as wel:L as other ~eslgns.
In Eurther embodimen-ts, a vertical blind appara-tus may include a multiplici-ty of corners and tracks of differen-t :Lengths. In such an appara-tus, cord 54 is ~ixed to a lead -traveller having the ~22~j8~ `
longe.st path length. ~here may conceivably be more than one lead -traveller having the same, but longest, path length. Cord 54 is also fixed to such other lead travellers, as well. Pairs of engagement means are attached to either cord 54 or 56, depending on the desired direction for opening and closing the vertical blind apparatus, on each side of the other lead travellers, having other shorter paths. The distance between the members of each pair of engagement means is equal to the difference in length between such other path and the longest path. The engagement means in each pair is specifically positioned, as described above.
In a further embodiment, if all lead traveller paths have the same length, -the cords 54 and 56 are simply fixed to -the lead travellers. They may, for example, be attached by the means shown in Figure 4 or they may simply be tied to or wrapped around a por-tion of the lead traveller.
In a further embodimen-t, a lead traveller may have a design different from other travellers.
The embodiment of E`igures 3 to 5 illustrates lead travellers identical -to other travellers. Such an arrangement is convenient for -the manufacture of the blind apparatus. Ilowever, :in certain instances a lead traveller with specla] different characteris-tics may be desired.
Figure 6 -llus-trates one such alterna-te embodiment for a lead traveller 90. Lead -traveller ~2~
90 defines only one panel 92 which allows cord 5~ to pass therethrough at an opening 94. Engayement means 78 and 80 are unable -to pass through opening 94.
Enyagement means 78 and B0 are separated by a distance about equal to the difference in lengths of the longest traveller path and the path of lead traveller 90 plus the thickness o panel 92. Lead traveller 90 may not include a slat shaft and may not have a slat affixed thereto. Furthermore, lead traveller 90 may not have a collapsible connection means connecting it to an adjacent traveller 36. Rather, lead -traveller 90 may be rigidly fixed in close proximi-ty to an adjacen-t traveller 36.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom oE
the vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously. By using opposed pairs of tracks to support -the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, includiny a vertical position, a horizon-tal position or any position there-between.
Having described what is believed to be -the best mode by which -the invention may be per-formed, it will be seen tha-t the invention may be particularly de~ined as follows:
~26~9 A blind apparatus comprising, at least -two tracks having adjacent ends me~ting at a corner defined therebetween, -the -tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner, a rotation shaft longi-tudinally loca-ted relative to each trac~, support means affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaEt, at leas-t one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of pre-de-termined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path, a plurality of travellers, form-ing a group, associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidablv received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means -to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of -the ro-tation shaf-t, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacen-t -travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacen-t traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means attachable to the lead travellers, ro-tation control means attached -to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connec-ting adjacent rota-tion shaf-ts at the corner.
i 1~2 SUPPLEMENTARY DI~CI;OSU~E
_ ~ igure 7 is a perspective view o~ a Eurther embodiment of slidin~ clu-tch; and, Figures 8a and 8b are exploded, and perspec-tive illustrations o~ a fur-ther embodiment for joining the tracks at the corner.
According to a further embodiment the use of fixed connectors on beads 64, 78 and 80 may be dispensed with.
,.~
Instead, the cords may be gripped by clutch devices associated with the lead travellers in each group.
These devices provide a form of sliding frictional grip on the cord so that the locations of the lead travellers can be self-adjusting.
One form of such a clutch device is shown in Figure 7.
It will be seen to comprise a generally channel-shaped body portion 100 having a back portion 102. Side walls 104, 106 and 108, 110 ex-tend from bac~ por-tion 102.
A generally rectangular no-tch is formed between walls 104 and 108, and 106 and 110 respec-tively, for reasons to be described.
An adjustment screw 112 is mounted in wall 104, and carries a pressure shoe 114. A guide groove 116 is formed in wall 106. Groove 116 and shoe 114 register wi-th one ano-ther so as to embrace a cord on opposi-te sides.
By sui-tably adjusting the screw 112, a pressure can be applied to a cord between shoe 11~ and groove 116. This pressure can be regulated so as -to produce -the dcsired amoun-t of friction.
2~g Other forms o~ clu-tch devices can be provided.
~or example, a clutch device could simply be an opening o a restricted size, in a traveller, or in a device such as a connector bead 64, 78 or 80, or even a washer 76.
ALl could be made to fit on the cord with a frictional sliding grip.
In operation in this embodiment, all lead travellers would star-t to move in unison. However those travellers in small groups would come to rest earlier than those in larger groups. The clutch devices would then allow the cords to slip so that the longest lead traveller could continue to move.
The clutch 100 is so designed that it can be used with various difEerent makes oE traveller. With one make of traveller, the no-tch 111 can receive the lead traveller within it. In this way, movement of the cord in either direction will cause the lead traveller ! -to move.
The clutch 100 can be associated in other ways wi-th other Eorms of travellers which are now in use, and which form no part of this disclosure being in any event well-known in the art.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom of the ver-tical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simul-taneous:Ly. By using opposed pairs oE -tracks to support the slats, the blind appara-tus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal posi-tion or any pOsitiOIl therebe-tween.
.~, ~226~
In accordance wi-th a further embodiment the corners o-f the -tracks may be joined, by means of the corner insert member illustrated generally in Figures 8a and 8b.
I'he corner insert member is indicated generally as 130, and comprises right and left hand body members 132 and :L34 hinged together by pins 136.
The body member 132 will be seen to comprise upper and lower hinged walls 138, 140, in spaced apart parallel planes, and joined by a junction wall 142.
Walls 138 and 140 define hinge holes 144 to receive pins 136.
At the opposite ends of walls 138, 140, upper and lower track connector walls 146 and 148 extend outwardly. Walls 146-148 are located in parallel spaced apart planes, beiny offset inwardly with respect to the-planes of walls 138-140 for reasons to be ; described. A side junction wall 150 extends between walls 146-148, which lies in a plane ofEset inwardly with respect to side wall 142 of body 132.
An end wall 152 extends between -the ends of walls 146, 148 and 150.
A cord guide opening 154 is formed in wall 152, and a rod guide opening 156 is also ~ormed in wall 152.
A pair o~ locating fingers 158 extend from opposi-te sides o-f wall 152.
Body 134 defines the same componen-ts, and these are therefore given the same numbers as in -the case of body 132. The only exception is that the walls 138-140 are formed so as to interfit with one ~z~
another in the two bodies 132-134, whereby to overlap and permit the pins 136 to pass throu~h openin~s 1~4.
In order to guide the cords, around -the corner, a corner guide :Erame 160 (Figure 8b~ is provided, having two fastenin~ flan~es 162, extending ~rom one end thereof at an obtuse angle, sliding into each end of the tracks.
Pulleys 164 are mounted on a common shaft 166 within frame 160.
In operation, where it is desired to join two pieces of track at a corner, the ends of the two pieces of track are cut square, and the two pieces of track are then slid onto the walls 146, 1~8, 150 on each of bodies 132 and 13~.
The locating members 158 fit within portions of the track The walls 138, 1~0 will then be left extending out of the two ends of the track.
The two portions of -track are -then swung about the pins 136 until the correct anyle is loca-ted.
The frame 160 ~s then introduced into posi-tion, and the two 1anges 162 are secured permanen-tly to the walls 138 on -the bodies 132/ 134 by means of screws (not shown) or other suitable fastening means.
The control cords and the control sha:E-t and its flexible junc-tion member are then introduced -through the openings in the walls 152, and are assembled -together, with the con-trol cords running around the pulleys 16~.
If desired, a corner trim plate (no-t shown) may be a-ttached between the two portions of -track to cover the corner member 130 i.:E desired.
2;~6~
It will of course be appreciated that while the corner junc-tion member 130 is indica-ted as two separate parts hinged -together by means of a pin, in accordance with well~known plas-tic forming techniques, plastic structures can be Eormed of wha-t is known as a "self-hinge" being a Elexible portion of a plastic formed integrally with the plastic structure by means of which two portions may be hinged or swung relative to one another.
Clearly, such a well-known forming technique could be used in the present case, with only minor modifications.
The foregoing is a description of a preEerred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come within the scope of -the appended claims.
Claims (23)
1. A blind apparatus comprising:
at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner;
a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track;
support means affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaft;
at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of predetermined length within its respective track from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path;
a plurality of travellers, forming at least two groups, a said group being associated with a respective said lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received on respective tracks, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in -the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means;
a flexible element engageable with said lead travellers and operable to move all said lead travellers simultaneously along said tracks between open and closed positions;
rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner;
a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track;
support means affixed to each track for supporting the rotation shaft;
at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of predetermined length within its respective track from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path;
a plurality of travellers, forming at least two groups, a said group being associated with a respective said lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received on respective tracks, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in -the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means;
a flexible element engageable with said lead travellers and operable to move all said lead travellers simultaneously along said tracks between open and closed positions;
rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
2. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said flexible coupling means comprises;
a helical spring;
collar means attached to each end of the spring, each collar means being affixed to a shaft.
a helical spring;
collar means attached to each end of the spring, each collar means being affixed to a shaft.
3. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 2 wherein said connection means comprise collapsible connector means.
4. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 3 wherein the longitudinal control means comprises pull cords connectable to the lead travellers, the pull cords being connected to each other at one end of the tracks.
5. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 4 wherein a dual pulley means is provided at the corner, whereby the pull cords may be supported.
6. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 5 wherein a pulley is provided at the said one end of the tracks to receive the pull cords.
7. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 6 wherein a first pull cord is attached by an attachment means to each lead traveller being con-strained to move along a longest lead traveller path, and wherein pairs of lead traveller engagement means are attached to a pull cord adjacent each other lead traveller, the members of each pair of engagement means being spaced apart by an amount about equal to the difference in lengths of the longest lead traveller path and the respective lead traveller path, whereby,when the lead travellers are at the open position, one member of each pair of engagement means is adjacent its respective lead traveller on a side disposed toward the closed position.
8. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 wherein each lead traveller engagement means comprises a first bead affixed to a pull cord and wherein each lead traveller defines two parallel spaced apart panels defining first openings there-through, the said pull cord extending through the first openings, the openings having sufficient width to admit the first beads therethrough, and a washer, having a central aperture through which the said pull cord extends, the washer being supported by the said pull cord between the panels, the central aperture having insuf-ficient width to allow the first beads to pass therethrough.
9. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the attachment means comprises a second bead affixed to the first pull cord, the bead having a width greater than that of the openings in the panels.
10. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the attachment means comprises at least one loop of the first pull cord about a portion of the respective lead traveller.
11. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a helical spring.
12. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said flexible coupling means comprises a flexible tube.
13. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a flexible cable.
14. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a flexible shaft.
15. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein a downwardly depending slat is attached to each slat shaft.
16. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein a downwardly depending slat is attached to each slat shaft.
CLAIMS SUPPORTED BY THE
SUPPLEMENTARY DISCLOSURE
CLAIMS SUPPORTED BY THE
SUPPLEMENTARY DISCLOSURE
17. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 including a corner junction member, adapted to form a corner between two adjacent ends of track, said corner junction member comprising insert portions adapted to be inserted into each end of said track, and hinge means joining said insert portions whereby said two portions of track can be adjusted to different angles.
18. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 wherein said two insert portions in said hinge means are formed as a unitary integral structure.
19. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 including bearing means in said insert portions for receiving ends of said shafts.
20. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 wherein said corner junction member includes attachment tongues interengageable with each of said tracks, for retaining same in position.
21. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 including low friction guide means, for guiding said flexible elements therethrough.
22. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said lead traveller engagement means is slidable along said flexible elements.
23. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said lead traveller engagement means comprises a stop member, and frictional gripping means in said stop member, adapted to make a sliding frictional grip on flexible elements, whereby said stop member may engage said lead travellers and move them a predetermined distance, and thereafter when said lead traveller is at rest, said flexible element will slide through said stop member.
Priority Applications (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000457907A CA1222689A (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1984-06-29 | Track for blinds |
| EP85304660A EP0166625B1 (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1985-07-01 | Track for blinds |
| DE8585304660T DE3579957D1 (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1985-07-01 | CARRIER FOR CURTAINS. |
| AT85304660T ATE57234T1 (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1985-07-01 | SUPPORT RAIL FOR CURTAINS. |
| AU51097/85A AU583563B2 (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1985-12-11 | Track for blinds |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000457907A CA1222689A (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1984-06-29 | Track for blinds |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1222689A true CA1222689A (en) | 1987-06-09 |
Family
ID=4128213
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000457907A Expired CA1222689A (en) | 1984-06-29 | 1984-06-29 | Track for blinds |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0166625B1 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE57234T1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU583563B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1222689A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3579957D1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA1302229C (en) * | 1988-02-29 | 1992-06-02 | Norbert Marocco | Swingable junction for blind tracks |
| DE8901384U1 (en) * | 1989-02-03 | 1989-05-03 | Howald, Gerald, 2000 Hamburg, De | |
| US7278345B2 (en) | 2003-07-01 | 2007-10-09 | Springs Window Fashions, Llc | Blind trimming apparatus |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2254566A (en) * | 1938-08-27 | 1941-09-02 | Jr Edward S Cornell | Flexible coupling |
| US2605824A (en) * | 1950-05-03 | 1952-08-05 | Ruth Armstrong | Window blind |
| US3389738A (en) * | 1967-02-23 | 1968-06-25 | Roth Leo | Window shade apparatus |
| GB1470533A (en) * | 1975-05-13 | 1977-04-14 | Louverdrape Vertical Blinds Lt | Vertical blinds |
| CH608858A5 (en) * | 1976-08-04 | 1979-01-31 | Bratschi Silent Gliss | |
| US4293021A (en) * | 1979-06-06 | 1981-10-06 | Arena Joseph Philip | Support for traversing window covering device |
-
1984
- 1984-06-29 CA CA000457907A patent/CA1222689A/en not_active Expired
-
1985
- 1985-07-01 EP EP85304660A patent/EP0166625B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1985-07-01 AT AT85304660T patent/ATE57234T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1985-07-01 DE DE8585304660T patent/DE3579957D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1985-12-11 AU AU51097/85A patent/AU583563B2/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| ATE57234T1 (en) | 1990-10-15 |
| AU5109785A (en) | 1987-06-18 |
| EP0166625A3 (en) | 1986-09-17 |
| EP0166625B1 (en) | 1990-10-03 |
| EP0166625A2 (en) | 1986-01-02 |
| AU583563B2 (en) | 1989-05-04 |
| DE3579957D1 (en) | 1990-11-08 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MZSU | Surrender |