CA2090046A1 - Fabric sleeves and interconnecting sheer web for vertical blinds - Google Patents
Fabric sleeves and interconnecting sheer web for vertical blindsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2090046A1 CA2090046A1 CA 2090046 CA2090046A CA2090046A1 CA 2090046 A1 CA2090046 A1 CA 2090046A1 CA 2090046 CA2090046 CA 2090046 CA 2090046 A CA2090046 A CA 2090046A CA 2090046 A1 CA2090046 A1 CA 2090046A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- slats
- slat
- web
- interconnecting
- envelopes
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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
- E06B9/367—Lamellae suspensions ; Bottom weights; Bottom guides
-
- 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
- E06B9/262—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with flexibly-interconnected horizontal or vertical strips; Concertina blinds, i.e. upwardly folding flexible screens
-
- 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
- E06B9/38—Other details
- E06B9/386—Details of lamellae
-
- 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
- E06B2009/2423—Combinations of at least two screens
- E06B2009/2429—One vertical sheet and slats
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Blinds (AREA)
Abstract
TITLE
Fabric Sleeves and Interconnecting Sheer Web for Vertical Blinds ABSTRACT
A window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slat sleeves is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges of said slats are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which said respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein said slats are oriented generally transversely to the plane of said interconnecting web:
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
Fabric Sleeves and Interconnecting Sheer Web for Vertical Blinds ABSTRACT
A window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slat sleeves is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges of said slats are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which said respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein said slats are oriented generally transversely to the plane of said interconnecting web:
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
Description
2~9~0~
FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to window coverings, such as interior draperies, sheers, blinds and the like. In particular, it relates to window blinds having fabric covered slats.
'' ' '.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
~ ~ .
Although interior window coverings are for the most part still typified by draperies, and translucent sheers, there is an ever developing trend towards the utilization of various styles of window blinds, not only in commercial settings, but also in residential applications.
Conventional window blinds include a spring-loaded dispensing shaft adapted to selectively roll and unroll a flexible fabric panel, in and out of covering relation over a window opening. These blinds, while still in use today, were and continue to be subject to the drawback that they could selectively occlude/admit light only to the extent that they were closed/open, and that to the extent that they were closed, they completely obscured the window such that a person could not view what was happening on the other side of the window pane.
In order to control the admission of light and the degree of privacy, (while at the same time avoiding entirely obscuring the view through a window), venetian blinds were developed. Originally these may ! have simply taken the form of operating slats in a hingedly movable wooden shutter. Today, however, the most widely recognized form of the venetian blind is a horizontally slatted metal or plastic blind that is adapted to permit selective angling of the slats to control the amount of the light that is passed through the blind as well as the amount of visibility through the unobscured openings between the slats. More and more often, operating slat blinds of this same general form are appearing in a vertically-oriented slat format. In some cases these slats are made of a plastic resin-infused fabric, so as to capture some of the aesthetic values associated with the more traditional drapery window coverings. Concern over the aesthetic values of these window blind designs has arisen due an apparent public perception of the "commercial" or "office" appearance of these blinds, which has to some degree restricted the "residential" or "domestic" marketing opportunities associated with these products.
Moreover, there is generally a desire to effect a higher degree of privacy in residential applications, without necessarily sealing off the interior of the room from the outside world. Fabric sheers have filled this need in traditional drapery window treatments.
There remains, however, a need in the art for window blinds which deliver on aæpects of aeæthetic expectations associated with traditional drapery and sheer window coverings, while at the same time affording, in combination, the operating advantages associated with a slatted window blind, and the supplemental privacy that is afforded by translucent coverings such as sheers.
! i, ~ ~ .
SUHMARY OF THE INVENTION:
Broadly speaking, the present invention includes a window covering 2 0 9 0 0 4 6 ~:
~,b comprising an interconnecting web of material, preferably of sheer, translucent or even blackout fabric material, with a plurality of web interconnected slat-covering envelopes hingedly secured thereon in mutually spaced apart relation. The hinged relaticnship is facilitated along a flexible seam at the interface between the web and the envelope.
Each of the envelopes is adapted to surround respective ones of a corresponding plurality of window blind slats in slat-covering relation therewith.
In accordance with one exemplary aspect of the present invention, there is provided a window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-j extenæive with a window opening. A plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slats are hingedly joined at respective elongated edges thereof to the interconnecting sheer web, in mutually spaced apart relation from one another. More specifically, the lateral extent of each of the slats is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs comprised of each such slat and its neighbouring slat. ~
Respective opposed free edges of the slats are operably -positionable between ones of a closed position, (in which the respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat), and any of a plurality of selected "at-least-partially-opened" positions, (wherein the slats are oriented generally ; transversely to the plane of the interconnecting web).
In accordance with this arrangement, (with the slats in any one of ..~.............
~:, ~ ~",~
` 2090046 the opened positions), light passing between the slats is also passed through the sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction on either the admission of light or visibility through the light-transmitting passage openings through the covering.
Preferably the above window covering includes coupling means, such as a clip, for example, arranged on at least one end of each of the slats. This means, or more specifically, clip, is adapted for interconnecting the window covering in secured, supported relation, to a window blind operator. The operator, in known fashion, is adapted to selectively rotate the slats, (about respective interconnected couples between the operator and the slats), between the closed and the above mentioned "at-least-partially-opened" positions.
In accordance with an especially preferred aspect of the present invention, there is again provided a window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening. In accordance with this embodiment, however, a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes are hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to the interconnecting sheer web. As with the slats mentioned hereinbefore, these envelopes are arranged in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of the slat envelope :
!iS at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of the slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are `~
adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats, in covering ~;
4 ~ ;~
209~04~
relation thereover.
Preferably these envelopes are fabric envelopes, and especially preferred envelopes are sleeves which have at least one open end, and are adapted to be drawn on and off the slats, in longitudinally sliding -(ie sock-like) relation thereover. In an especially preferred form the sleeves are removable from the slats, to thereby facilitate cleaning or replacement of the window covering without necessarily otherwise altering or demounting the slats or the operator.
In keeping with conventional contemporary designs, slats will typically be generally flat. In one embodiment of this latter aspect of the present invention, however, the slats are curved, with a lateral radius defining mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces thereof. In this embodiment respective portions of the sleeve:
a) overlay the convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, ;
b) extend along a chord defined between the edges of the ~
slat, in spaced relation from the convex surface. ;
In this way there is defined a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent to the concave æurface of each such slat.
Other features associated with the present invention, include an insert comprising a thermally insulating and/or sound dampening material adapted to be inserted into the pockets formed between the concave surface of the slat, and the adjacent surface of the sleeve. Formed styrofoam, or similar inserts may be used for these purposes.
Another such feature includes the use of a sleeve having a ~ ~
., :.
decorative fabric on one side, and an alternate fabric along the opposite side. In one aspect, this arrangement could be employed to allow the interior presentation to be varied as between two decorative patterns (as for example a formal versus an informal, or a daytime versus an evening appropriate fabric), merely by reversing the slats.
In another aspect, the alternate fabric could employ a material having a high albedo to impede heat transmission into the living space.
Preferably, the slats employed as part of a combination according to the present invention, could have rounded or otherwise modified ends to facilitate the insertion of the slat into the sleeves. ~-DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF TÆ INVENTION:
INTRODUCTION TO THE DRAWINGS:
Over the course of the detailed description of the present invention reference will be made to the appended drawings, of which:
Figure~ la and lb depict a window covering according to the present invention in closed and opened positions, ;
respectively;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the window covering depicted in Figure la;
Figures 3a and 3b illustrate fabric sleeves in accordance with onelaspect of the present invention, in opened and closed positions, respectively;
Figure 4 represents slats and corresponding sleeves in axial ~. ~
alignment prior to insertion of the slats into the sleeves;
Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view through two adjacent slats arranged in their respective sleeves, with a portion of an insulating insert aligned for insertion into a pocket formed between the slat and one surface of the corresponding sleeve.
In accordance with preferred practice under the present invention, there is provided a vertical blind window covering as illustrated in the appended drawings.
Referring now to the drawings in general, the preferred vertical blind window covering 1 comprises an interconnecting sheer fabric web 2 arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening.
A plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes 3 are hingedly joined along respective elongated edges 4 thereof to the interconnecting sheer web 2. The envelopes 3 are fabric sleeves 5 and are arranged on the web 2 in mutually spaced apart relation, such that the lateral extent 6 (that is to say the width) of `~ 20 the vertical blind slat sleeves S is at least equal to the distance ~ between hingedly attached edges 4 of adjacent pairs of the slat sleeves ~:- 5. ,'.:
!' ' ' Each envelope 3 comprises a sleeve 5 that is drawn over a corresponding one of the slats 7 of the vertical blind 1, in covering ~ ~
relation thereover. ~`
~ ' ~'.''.
..
209~0~6 I`
Respective opposed free edges 8 of the slats 7 are operably positionable between ones of: a closed position in which the respective free edges 8 are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of a respective, adjacent slat 7; and, any of a plurality of selected "at-least-partially-opened" positions in which the slats 7 are oriented generally transversely, relative to the plane of the interconnecting web 2. In this way, with the slats 7 in any one of these opened positions, light passing between the slats 7 is also passed (filtered) through the !sheer fabric web 2, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admisæion of light or visibility through the covering.
The illustrated window covering includes releasable coupling means 9 arranged on the vertically uppermost end 10 of each of the slats 7, for interconnecting in releasably secured, slat-suspended relation with a window blind operator 11 adapted for selectively rotating the slats 7 about respective interconnected couples 9 of the operator 11 and the slats 7.
The window covering preferably employs envelopes 3 such as sleeves 5 (or socks) having at least one open end 12, and being adapted to be drawn over the slats 7 in longitudinally sliding fashion. Preferably the corners 13 at the bottom of the slats are rounded or chamfered, so ~;~ as to facilitate the insertion and pulling-on of the sleeve 5.
IIn one embodiment according to the present invention, the slats 7 are curved, as shown in Figure , with a lateral radius 14 defining :~mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces, 15 and 16 ' ' respectively, and wherein respective diametrically opposed portions of the sleeve 17 and 18: overlay the convex surface 15 in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between the edges of the slat, in spaced relation from the concave surface 16. This arrangement defines a generally enclosed pocket 19 of air adjacent the concave surface 16 of each such slat 7. In a preferred aspect according to this last described embodiment, insulating inserts l9a are provided, which are adapted to be received within the above mentioned pocket 19, and serve as insulation enhancements for the coverinq as a whole.
Referring now to Figure , in particular, there is illustrated a window covering 1, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web 2 arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes 3 hingedly joined along respective elongated edges 4 thereof to the interconnecting sheer web 2 in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of the slat sleeves 5 is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached ed.ges 4 of adjacent pairs of the slat sleeves 5, wherein each of the sleeves 5 are adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats 7 in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges 8 of the slats 7 are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which the respective free edges 8 are juxtapositioned in proximal ! ` relation to a portion of an adjacent slat 7, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein the slats 7 are oriented generally transversely to the plane of the interconnecting web :
whereby, with slats 7 in any one of the opened positions, light passing between slats 7 is also passed through the sheer fabric web 2, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through the covering 1.
Note that the present invention permits the fabric coverings to be removed and cleaned, (typically dry cleaned), but that an operating window covering slat arrangement remains in place during the interim, .. .
thereby affording privacy while the fabric is out for cleaning. . ~.
" ';~, ~
. ,' . .
~' ,"' ':'' . :, .. ~
`:~ :, '.
' " ,,'`-~ ;' -.
..~. :. ::: .
....:
',.,'``',:-.
;'''~
~ '~'
FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention relates to window coverings, such as interior draperies, sheers, blinds and the like. In particular, it relates to window blinds having fabric covered slats.
'' ' '.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
~ ~ .
Although interior window coverings are for the most part still typified by draperies, and translucent sheers, there is an ever developing trend towards the utilization of various styles of window blinds, not only in commercial settings, but also in residential applications.
Conventional window blinds include a spring-loaded dispensing shaft adapted to selectively roll and unroll a flexible fabric panel, in and out of covering relation over a window opening. These blinds, while still in use today, were and continue to be subject to the drawback that they could selectively occlude/admit light only to the extent that they were closed/open, and that to the extent that they were closed, they completely obscured the window such that a person could not view what was happening on the other side of the window pane.
In order to control the admission of light and the degree of privacy, (while at the same time avoiding entirely obscuring the view through a window), venetian blinds were developed. Originally these may ! have simply taken the form of operating slats in a hingedly movable wooden shutter. Today, however, the most widely recognized form of the venetian blind is a horizontally slatted metal or plastic blind that is adapted to permit selective angling of the slats to control the amount of the light that is passed through the blind as well as the amount of visibility through the unobscured openings between the slats. More and more often, operating slat blinds of this same general form are appearing in a vertically-oriented slat format. In some cases these slats are made of a plastic resin-infused fabric, so as to capture some of the aesthetic values associated with the more traditional drapery window coverings. Concern over the aesthetic values of these window blind designs has arisen due an apparent public perception of the "commercial" or "office" appearance of these blinds, which has to some degree restricted the "residential" or "domestic" marketing opportunities associated with these products.
Moreover, there is generally a desire to effect a higher degree of privacy in residential applications, without necessarily sealing off the interior of the room from the outside world. Fabric sheers have filled this need in traditional drapery window treatments.
There remains, however, a need in the art for window blinds which deliver on aæpects of aeæthetic expectations associated with traditional drapery and sheer window coverings, while at the same time affording, in combination, the operating advantages associated with a slatted window blind, and the supplemental privacy that is afforded by translucent coverings such as sheers.
! i, ~ ~ .
SUHMARY OF THE INVENTION:
Broadly speaking, the present invention includes a window covering 2 0 9 0 0 4 6 ~:
~,b comprising an interconnecting web of material, preferably of sheer, translucent or even blackout fabric material, with a plurality of web interconnected slat-covering envelopes hingedly secured thereon in mutually spaced apart relation. The hinged relaticnship is facilitated along a flexible seam at the interface between the web and the envelope.
Each of the envelopes is adapted to surround respective ones of a corresponding plurality of window blind slats in slat-covering relation therewith.
In accordance with one exemplary aspect of the present invention, there is provided a window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-j extenæive with a window opening. A plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slats are hingedly joined at respective elongated edges thereof to the interconnecting sheer web, in mutually spaced apart relation from one another. More specifically, the lateral extent of each of the slats is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs comprised of each such slat and its neighbouring slat. ~
Respective opposed free edges of the slats are operably -positionable between ones of a closed position, (in which the respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat), and any of a plurality of selected "at-least-partially-opened" positions, (wherein the slats are oriented generally ; transversely to the plane of the interconnecting web).
In accordance with this arrangement, (with the slats in any one of ..~.............
~:, ~ ~",~
` 2090046 the opened positions), light passing between the slats is also passed through the sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction on either the admission of light or visibility through the light-transmitting passage openings through the covering.
Preferably the above window covering includes coupling means, such as a clip, for example, arranged on at least one end of each of the slats. This means, or more specifically, clip, is adapted for interconnecting the window covering in secured, supported relation, to a window blind operator. The operator, in known fashion, is adapted to selectively rotate the slats, (about respective interconnected couples between the operator and the slats), between the closed and the above mentioned "at-least-partially-opened" positions.
In accordance with an especially preferred aspect of the present invention, there is again provided a window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening. In accordance with this embodiment, however, a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes are hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to the interconnecting sheer web. As with the slats mentioned hereinbefore, these envelopes are arranged in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of the slat envelope :
!iS at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of the slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are `~
adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats, in covering ~;
4 ~ ;~
209~04~
relation thereover.
Preferably these envelopes are fabric envelopes, and especially preferred envelopes are sleeves which have at least one open end, and are adapted to be drawn on and off the slats, in longitudinally sliding -(ie sock-like) relation thereover. In an especially preferred form the sleeves are removable from the slats, to thereby facilitate cleaning or replacement of the window covering without necessarily otherwise altering or demounting the slats or the operator.
In keeping with conventional contemporary designs, slats will typically be generally flat. In one embodiment of this latter aspect of the present invention, however, the slats are curved, with a lateral radius defining mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces thereof. In this embodiment respective portions of the sleeve:
a) overlay the convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, ;
b) extend along a chord defined between the edges of the ~
slat, in spaced relation from the convex surface. ;
In this way there is defined a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent to the concave æurface of each such slat.
Other features associated with the present invention, include an insert comprising a thermally insulating and/or sound dampening material adapted to be inserted into the pockets formed between the concave surface of the slat, and the adjacent surface of the sleeve. Formed styrofoam, or similar inserts may be used for these purposes.
Another such feature includes the use of a sleeve having a ~ ~
., :.
decorative fabric on one side, and an alternate fabric along the opposite side. In one aspect, this arrangement could be employed to allow the interior presentation to be varied as between two decorative patterns (as for example a formal versus an informal, or a daytime versus an evening appropriate fabric), merely by reversing the slats.
In another aspect, the alternate fabric could employ a material having a high albedo to impede heat transmission into the living space.
Preferably, the slats employed as part of a combination according to the present invention, could have rounded or otherwise modified ends to facilitate the insertion of the slat into the sleeves. ~-DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF TÆ INVENTION:
INTRODUCTION TO THE DRAWINGS:
Over the course of the detailed description of the present invention reference will be made to the appended drawings, of which:
Figure~ la and lb depict a window covering according to the present invention in closed and opened positions, ;
respectively;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the window covering depicted in Figure la;
Figures 3a and 3b illustrate fabric sleeves in accordance with onelaspect of the present invention, in opened and closed positions, respectively;
Figure 4 represents slats and corresponding sleeves in axial ~. ~
alignment prior to insertion of the slats into the sleeves;
Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view through two adjacent slats arranged in their respective sleeves, with a portion of an insulating insert aligned for insertion into a pocket formed between the slat and one surface of the corresponding sleeve.
In accordance with preferred practice under the present invention, there is provided a vertical blind window covering as illustrated in the appended drawings.
Referring now to the drawings in general, the preferred vertical blind window covering 1 comprises an interconnecting sheer fabric web 2 arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening.
A plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes 3 are hingedly joined along respective elongated edges 4 thereof to the interconnecting sheer web 2. The envelopes 3 are fabric sleeves 5 and are arranged on the web 2 in mutually spaced apart relation, such that the lateral extent 6 (that is to say the width) of `~ 20 the vertical blind slat sleeves S is at least equal to the distance ~ between hingedly attached edges 4 of adjacent pairs of the slat sleeves ~:- 5. ,'.:
!' ' ' Each envelope 3 comprises a sleeve 5 that is drawn over a corresponding one of the slats 7 of the vertical blind 1, in covering ~ ~
relation thereover. ~`
~ ' ~'.''.
..
209~0~6 I`
Respective opposed free edges 8 of the slats 7 are operably positionable between ones of: a closed position in which the respective free edges 8 are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of a respective, adjacent slat 7; and, any of a plurality of selected "at-least-partially-opened" positions in which the slats 7 are oriented generally transversely, relative to the plane of the interconnecting web 2. In this way, with the slats 7 in any one of these opened positions, light passing between the slats 7 is also passed (filtered) through the !sheer fabric web 2, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admisæion of light or visibility through the covering.
The illustrated window covering includes releasable coupling means 9 arranged on the vertically uppermost end 10 of each of the slats 7, for interconnecting in releasably secured, slat-suspended relation with a window blind operator 11 adapted for selectively rotating the slats 7 about respective interconnected couples 9 of the operator 11 and the slats 7.
The window covering preferably employs envelopes 3 such as sleeves 5 (or socks) having at least one open end 12, and being adapted to be drawn over the slats 7 in longitudinally sliding fashion. Preferably the corners 13 at the bottom of the slats are rounded or chamfered, so ~;~ as to facilitate the insertion and pulling-on of the sleeve 5.
IIn one embodiment according to the present invention, the slats 7 are curved, as shown in Figure , with a lateral radius 14 defining :~mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces, 15 and 16 ' ' respectively, and wherein respective diametrically opposed portions of the sleeve 17 and 18: overlay the convex surface 15 in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between the edges of the slat, in spaced relation from the concave surface 16. This arrangement defines a generally enclosed pocket 19 of air adjacent the concave surface 16 of each such slat 7. In a preferred aspect according to this last described embodiment, insulating inserts l9a are provided, which are adapted to be received within the above mentioned pocket 19, and serve as insulation enhancements for the coverinq as a whole.
Referring now to Figure , in particular, there is illustrated a window covering 1, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web 2 arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes 3 hingedly joined along respective elongated edges 4 thereof to the interconnecting sheer web 2 in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of the slat sleeves 5 is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached ed.ges 4 of adjacent pairs of the slat sleeves 5, wherein each of the sleeves 5 are adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats 7 in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges 8 of the slats 7 are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which the respective free edges 8 are juxtapositioned in proximal ! ` relation to a portion of an adjacent slat 7, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein the slats 7 are oriented generally transversely to the plane of the interconnecting web :
whereby, with slats 7 in any one of the opened positions, light passing between slats 7 is also passed through the sheer fabric web 2, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through the covering 1.
Note that the present invention permits the fabric coverings to be removed and cleaned, (typically dry cleaned), but that an operating window covering slat arrangement remains in place during the interim, .. .
thereby affording privacy while the fabric is out for cleaning. . ~.
" ';~, ~
. ,' . .
~' ,"' ':'' . :, .. ~
`:~ :, '.
' " ,,'`-~ ;' -.
..~. :. ::: .
....:
',.,'``',:-.
;'''~
~ '~'
Claims (20)
1. A window covering, comprising a vertical blind having an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slats hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slats is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slats, and whereby respective opposed free edges of said slats are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which said respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein said slats are oriented generally transversely to the plane of said interconnecting web:
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
2. The window covering according to claim 1, including coupling means arranged on at least one end of each of said slats for interconnecting in secured, supported relation with a window blind operator adapted for selectively rotating said slats about respective interconnected couples of said operator and said slats, between said closed and said at least partially opened positions.
3. A window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slat sleeves is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are adapted to be drawn over corresponding ones of slats in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges of said slats are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which said respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein said slats are oriented generally transversely to the plane of said interconnecting web:
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
4. The window covering according to claim 3 wherein said envelopes are fabric envelopes.
5. The window covering according to claim 4, including coupling means arranged on at least one end of each of said slats for interconnecting in secured, supported relation with a window blind operator adapted for selectively rotating said slats about respective interconnected couples of said operator and said slats, between said closed and said at least partially opened positions.
6. The window covering according to claim 4, wherein said envelopes are sleeves having at least one open end, and being adapted to be drawn on to said slats, in longitudinally sliding relation thereover.
7. The window covering according to claim 6, wherein said sleeves are removable from said slats, to thereby facilitate cleaning or replacement of said window covering without otherwise altering or demounting said slats or said operator.
8. The window covering according to claim 6 wherein said slats are vertical blind slats.
9. The window covering according to claim 7, wherein said slats are curved, with a lateral radius defining mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces, and wherein respective portions of said sleeve:
overlay said convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between said edges of said slat, in spaced relation from said convex surface, to thereby define a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent said concave surface of each such slat.
overlay said convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between said edges of said slat, in spaced relation from said convex surface, to thereby define a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent said concave surface of each such slat.
10. A vertical blind window covering, comprising an interconnecting sheer fabric web arranged in a plane adapted to be at least generally co-extensive with a window opening, and a plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slat sleeves is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slat envelopes, wherein each of said sleeves are drawn over corresponding ones of slats of said vertical blind, in covering relation thereover, and whereby respective opposed free edges of said slats are operably positionable between ones of a closed position in which said respective free edges are juxtapositioned in proximal relation to a portion of an adjacent slat, and any of a plurality of selected at least partially opened positions wherein said slats are oriented generally transversely to the plane of said interconnecting web:
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
whereby, with said slats in any one of said opened positions, light passing between said slats is also passed through said sheer fabric web, to selectively effect an augmented degree of privacy without undue collateral restriction of either the admission of light or visibility through said covering.
11. The window covering according to claim 10 wherein said envelopes are fabric envelopes.
12. The window covering according to claim 11, including releasable coupling means arranged on at least one end of each of said slats for interconnecting in releasably secured, supported relation with a window blind operator adapted for selectively rotating said slats about respective interconnected couples of said operator and said slats, between said closed and said at least partially opened positions.
13. The window covering according to claim 12, wherein said envelopes are sleeves having at least one open end, and being adapted to be drawn on to said slats, in longitudinally sliding relation thereover.
14. The window covering according to claim 13, wherein said slats are curved, with a lateral radius defining mutually opposed convex and concave slat surfaces, and wherein respective portions of said sleeve:
overlay said convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between said edges of said slat, in spaced relation from said convex surface, to thereby define a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent said concave surface of each such slat.
overlay said convex surface in contacting relation therewith; and, extend along a chord defined between said edges of said slat, in spaced relation from said convex surface, to thereby define a generally enclosed pocket of air adjacent said concave surface of each such slat.
15. A window covering comprising an interconnecting web of sheer material with a plurality of web-interconnected, slat-covering envelopes hingedly secured thereon in mutually spaced apart relation and adapted to at least partially envelop a window blind slat.
16. The window covering according to claim 15, wherein said window blind slat is a slat in a vertical blind, and envelopes comprise sleeves.
17. The window covering according to claim 16, wherein said plurality of mutually spaced apart web-interconnected slat envelopes are hingedly joined along respective elongated edges thereof to said interconnecting sheer web, in mutually spaced apart relation such that the lateral extent of said slat envelopes is at least equal to the distance between hingedly attached edges of adjacent pairs of said slat envelopes.
18. The window covering according to claim 17, wherein said envelopes comprise sleeves adapted to be drawn longitudinally over said slats.
19. The window covering according to claim 18, wherein said web is a fabric web.
20. The window covering according to claim 19, wherein said sleeves comprise fabric material.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2090046 CA2090046A1 (en) | 1993-02-15 | 1993-02-15 | Fabric sleeves and interconnecting sheer web for vertical blinds |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2090046 CA2090046A1 (en) | 1993-02-15 | 1993-02-15 | Fabric sleeves and interconnecting sheer web for vertical blinds |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2090046A1 true CA2090046A1 (en) | 1994-08-16 |
Family
ID=4151183
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2090046 Abandoned CA2090046A1 (en) | 1993-02-15 | 1993-02-15 | Fabric sleeves and interconnecting sheer web for vertical blinds |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2090046A1 (en) |
Cited By (24)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5638880A (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 1997-06-17 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering with rigid vanes |
| US5749404A (en) * | 1995-05-10 | 1998-05-12 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric for an architectural covering and method and apparatus of manufacturing same |
| US6112797A (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2000-09-05 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Apparatus for fabricating a light control window covering |
| US6164363A (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 2000-12-26 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric window covering with looped fabric vanes |
| EP1146198A2 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2001-10-17 | Comfortex Corporation | Vane and architectural covering for windows |
| USD456196S1 (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2002-04-30 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering |
| US6688369B2 (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2004-02-10 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering |
| US6823923B2 (en) | 2000-04-14 | 2004-11-30 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Light-control window covering and method and apparatus for its manufacture |
| EP1797270A2 (en) * | 2004-10-07 | 2007-06-20 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating same |
| US7730927B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-06-08 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating the same |
| US7757743B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-07-20 | Claus Graichen | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system and vertical drapery system incorporating the same |
| US7836936B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-11-23 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating the same |
| USD691487S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691391S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691396S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691394S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691395S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691392S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691486S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel for coverings for architectural openings |
| USD691393S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD740588S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2015-10-13 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a vane with a pattern |
| USD750395S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2016-03-01 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a vane with a pattern |
| USD751319S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2016-03-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a sheet with a pattern |
| US11118396B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-09-14 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for architectural features, and related systems, methods of operation, and manufacture |
-
1993
- 1993-02-15 CA CA 2090046 patent/CA2090046A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (32)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD456196S1 (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2002-04-30 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering |
| US6112797A (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2000-09-05 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Apparatus for fabricating a light control window covering |
| US6688369B2 (en) | 1990-10-24 | 2004-02-10 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering |
| US5845690A (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 1998-12-08 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering with rigid vanes and support cords |
| US5638880A (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 1997-06-17 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric light control window covering with rigid vanes |
| US6164363A (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 2000-12-26 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric window covering with looped fabric vanes |
| US6761782B2 (en) | 1995-05-10 | 2004-07-13 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Method of treating ends of a fabric for a covering for architectural openings |
| US5749404A (en) * | 1995-05-10 | 1998-05-12 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric for an architectural covering and method and apparatus of manufacturing same |
| US5876545A (en) * | 1995-05-10 | 1999-03-02 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Method of making a fabric for an architectural covering |
| US6478905B2 (en) | 1995-05-10 | 2002-11-12 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Apparatus for forming a fabric and components thereof for a covering for architectural openings and method of treating ends thereof |
| US6170548B1 (en) | 1995-05-10 | 2001-01-09 | Hunter Douglas, Inc. | Apparatus for forming a fabric and components thereof for a covering for architectural openings and method of treating ends thereof |
| EP1146198A2 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2001-10-17 | Comfortex Corporation | Vane and architectural covering for windows |
| US6688373B2 (en) | 2000-04-13 | 2004-02-10 | Comfortex Corporation | Architectural covering for windows |
| EP1146198A3 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2003-04-23 | Comfortex Corporation | Vane and architectural covering for windows |
| US6823923B2 (en) | 2000-04-14 | 2004-11-30 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Light-control window covering and method and apparatus for its manufacture |
| US7730927B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-06-08 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating the same |
| US7836936B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-11-23 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating the same |
| US7757743B2 (en) | 2004-04-14 | 2010-07-20 | Claus Graichen | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system and vertical drapery system incorporating the same |
| EP1797270A4 (en) * | 2004-10-07 | 2009-04-22 | Lace Lastics Co Inc | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating same |
| EP1797270A2 (en) * | 2004-10-07 | 2007-06-20 | Lace Lastics Co., Inc. | Frayless frangible connection for fabric and vertical blind system incorporating same |
| USD691487S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691391S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691396S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691394S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691395S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691392S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD691486S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel for coverings for architectural openings |
| USD691393S1 (en) | 2011-05-04 | 2013-10-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Fabric panel |
| USD740588S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2015-10-13 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a vane with a pattern |
| USD750395S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2016-03-01 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a vane with a pattern |
| USD751319S1 (en) | 2014-05-02 | 2016-03-15 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for an architectural opening having a sheet with a pattern |
| US11118396B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-09-14 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Covering for architectural features, and related systems, methods of operation, and manufacture |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Dead |