CA2095165C - Retraction device for window blind cords - Google Patents
Retraction device for window blind cordsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2095165C CA2095165C CA 2095165 CA2095165A CA2095165C CA 2095165 C CA2095165 C CA 2095165C CA 2095165 CA2095165 CA 2095165 CA 2095165 A CA2095165 A CA 2095165A CA 2095165 C CA2095165 C CA 2095165C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cord
- spool
- receiving surface
- cords
- loop
- 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 - Fee Related
Links
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 210000001015 abdomen Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000002902 bimodal effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001351 cycling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005923 long-lasting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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
- E06B9/28—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with horizontal lamellae, e.g. non-liftable
- E06B9/30—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with horizontal lamellae, e.g. non-liftable liftable
- E06B9/32—Operating, guiding, or securing devices therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
- B65H75/00—Storing webs, tapes, or filamentary material, e.g. on reels
- B65H75/02—Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans, mandrels or chucks
- B65H75/18—Constructional details
- B65H75/28—Arrangements for positively securing ends of material
-
- 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
- E06B9/28—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with horizontal lamellae, e.g. non-liftable
- E06B9/30—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with horizontal lamellae, e.g. non-liftable liftable
- E06B9/32—Operating, guiding, or securing devices therefor
- E06B9/326—Details of cords, e.g. buckles, drawing knobs
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Blinds (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention is a take up reel for window blind cords, and in particular for use with a cord loop used in a vertical blind. The device includes a rotatably driven spool having a cord attachment member fixedly engaged thereto and spaced apart from a cord receiving surface of the spool. The member is adapted to alternatively slidingly engage a cord loop positioned within said device, when the device is in an unretracted position, and fixedly engage said cord when said device is in a retracted position. The spool may be further provided with a retainer rotatably engaged to an end thereof and adapted to retain the cord on a cord-receiving surface of the spool. The retainer is rotatable between first and second positions, wherein in the first position the attachment means is exposed for user access thereto, and in the second position, the cap cooperates with the spool to retain the cord on the cord receiving surface. The retainer may be provided with force transfer means to allow the user to wind up the cord about the spool during initial installation of the device. Means may also be provided to fixedly engage the ends of a pair of free-ended cords, as are typically found in venetian blinds. A bushing provides non-binding rotation of the spool about its spindle.
Description
- RETRACTION DEVICE FOR WINDOW BLIND CORDS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a reversible cord retraction device for the taking up of slack in dangling window blind cords.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
For safety and aesthetic reasons it is desirable to prevent the cords of window blinds from dangling excessively.
One means to accomplish this is to retract a portion of the cord. In the case of vertical blinds (i.e.~ window blinds wherein the slats are oriented vertically), this requires a device capable of retracting a cord loop, since the blind opening cord of a vertical blind typically comprises a long continuous loop, which is cycled alternately in one direction or the other for the opening or closing of the blind. A
retraction device for a cord loop must be capable of bimodal functioning, wherein in its unretracted phase it allows the cord to freely slip through the device in order to allow the cord loop to cycle through the blind head. In its retracted phase, the cord is partly or fully wound up about a spool.
While retraction devices for the taking up of slack in free-ended cords, chains and the like (all of which will be collectively referred to herein as "cord") exist for many applications, a device specifically adapted for use in 2~5165 - association with a continuously cycled cord loop has not heretofore been developed.
It is desirable to provide a device capable as well of retracting the free-ended cords found in venetian blinds.
Further, it is desirable to provide a device that is capable of easy initial installation to a cord, for the convenience of the user.
Existing retraction devices do not provide an adequate solution to the requirements of a cycling cord loop, such as is found in a vertical window blind. For example, the cord retraction device disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,271,893 (McClusky) comprises a typical arrangement of a spring-driven spool rotatably engaged within a housing; means are not provided to allow a cord loop to slip through the device, when the cord is in the unretracted phase.
Retraction devices typically comprise two elements: a rotatable take-up spool and a spool support. The take-up spool is generally spring-driven, although it may also be rotated by a crank. The spring is typically a coil spring positioned inside the spool, one end thereof being fastened to the perimeter of the spool and the other end being fastened to a central spindle engaged to the spool support. The spool support is generally incorporated into a case, with the cord entering the case through an aperture extending through the wall of the case. The aperture directs the cord towards the spool. There may also be provided spool lock means, to ~516~
- releasably lock the spool in either the wound or unwound positions, or any intermediary position. In order to provide a bimodal cord attachment means, it is necessary that the spool be provided with means to slidingly engage the cord during the unwound phase of the operation of the device.
In general, it is desirable that any such device be simple and easy to use, in order to minimize manufacturing costs, provide ease of assembly and use, and be reliable and long lasting. Accordingly, it is desirable that the number and complexity of components of the device be reduced to a minimum.
It is further desirable in any such device that it be adapted to allow easy user access to the spool, since in most cases, such a device will be an ~aftermarket" product. At the same time, the spool must be adequately enclosed to prevent the cord from slipping and jamming between the case and the spool. Accordingly, cord retainer means are desirable about the spool that serve the dual functions of user access and cord retention.
Further, it is desirable to provide easy means to wind up the drive spring of the device during initial installation of the device to a cord. Such devices are typically sold with the spring unwound, with the user being required to provide an initial wind-up prior to attaching the cord to the spool. The initial wind-up can be cumbersome unless convenient means to accomplish this are provided.
2095I6~
~-- It is further desirable to provide means to prevent the spool from binding about its spindle. Typically, the drive spring comprises a coil spring retained within a slot within an end of the spindle. The forces exerted by the spring tend to splay the spindle apart at the slot, resulting in binding of the spool to the spindle. Means are required to prevent the splaying of the spindle, while still allowing for the free rotation of the spool about the spindle.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cord take-up device adapted for use with the cord loop of a vertical blind. It is a further object of the invention to provide a device capable as well of taking up the free-ended cords of a venetian blind. It is a further object to provide a device capable of simple fabrication, assembly and use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a cord retraction device comprising a spool having a cord-receiving surface, drive means to rotate the spool, and cord guide means to direct cord towards the cord-receiving surface of the spool to be wound up thereon. The spool is provided with cord loop attachment means adapted to engage a cord loop, wherein the loop may slip freely through the attachment means when the cord is in an 2~ 516S
~ unwound position.
The cord loop attachment means may comprise a member fixedly or removably engaged to and spaced apart from the cord-receiving surface of the spool.
5In a further aspect of the invention, the spool is provided with a retainer engaged to an end thereof and adapted to retain the cord on a cord-receiving surface of the spool.
The retainer is rotatable between first and second positions, wherein in the first position the attachment means is exposed for user access thereto, and in the second position, the retainer cooperates with the spool to retain the cord on the cord receiving surface thereof. The retainer may be further provided with force transfer means to allow for the initial wind-up of a cord about the spool.
15There may also be provided a bushing interposed between a spool spindle and a spindle housing within the spool. The spindle has been provided with a slot within its free end to retain a coil drive spring. The bushing is adapted to prevent the spindle from splaying apart within the housing, resulting in binding of the spool about the spindle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cord retraction device according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is an exploded view of the device, in perspective;
~516a ~ Figure 3 is a front elevational view of the spool portion of the device;
Figure 4 is a front elevational view of the device, with the front cover removed;
Figure 5 is a sectional view of a cord rotator with a cord loop engaged thereto;
Figure 6 is a sectional view of a cord rotator with a pair of free-ended cords engaged thereto;
Figure 7 is front elevational view as in figure 4, showing the device in use with a cord loop, with the front cover removed;
Figure 8 is a view as in figure 7, showing the device with cord wound up thereon;
Figure 9 is a view as in figure 7, showing the device in use with a pair of free-ended cords.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 is an exploded view, in perspective, of the second embodiment;
~U9~165 ~ Figure 12 is a rear elevational view of the spool assembly of the second embodiment, with the drive spring positioned therein;
Figure 13 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment, with the outer cover removed, showing the device with the retainer positioned in the cord installation position and a cord loop installed therein;
Figure 14 is a front elevational view of a spool assembly of the second embodiment, showing the retainer in the cord installation position, with a cord loop installed;
Figure 15 is a front elevational view as in Figure 14, showing the retainer in the use position;
Figure 16 is a front elevational view as in Figure 13, showing two free-ended cords installed therein;
Figure 17 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment, showing a cord loop wound onto the spool assembly;
Figure 18 is a perspective view of the second embodiment, showing the rear face thereof, with a chain loop engaged thereto.
2~51~
`~ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to figures 1 and 2, a first embodiment of the retraction device according to the present invention is provided with a rigid moulded plastic case 1, comprised of a rear wall 2, first and second side walls 3 and 4, respectively, a top 5, a convexly-curved lower wall 6 merging with said side walls, and a removable front cover 7. The cover 7 is fastened to the case by way of three screws 8. A
central aperture 9 and first and second peripheral apertures 10(a) and (b), respectively, positioned on either side thereof extend through the top 5.
The device may be engaged to either a looped cord or one or more free-ended cords; in figure 1, the device is shown engaged to a cord loop 11, such as is typically employed in a vertical blind. Cord guide means direct the cord into the device towards a wind-up spool. The guide means comprise a first peripheral aperture 10(a), through which the cord enters the case. The cord exits the case through a second peripheral aperture 10(b). The device may also be used with a pair of free-ended cords 66 such as are typically employed in venetian blinds, as shown in figure 9; for this purpose, both cords enter the case through a central aperture 9.
The cover 7 has an access opening 12, to allow the user access to the interior of the case, to engage the device to a cord. The opening 12 consists of a large central slot ~0951S~
`~ extending from the upper edge of the cover to slightly below the midpoint thereof. A hinged plate 13 covers the opening 12, and may be opened to allow access into the case. The plate 13 is snap-fitted shut by means of a pair of laterally-extending closure members 14 positioned adjacent the upperedge of the plate 13, both of which face towards the interior of the case 1 when the plate is`closed. Each closure member 14 comprises a base 70 and a head 72. The base 70 extends upwardly from to the interior surface of the plate 13, and terminates at its upper end in a shelf 71. The head 72, smaller in cross section than the base, extends upwardly from the shelf 71. When the plate 13 is snap-fitted shut, the shelf 71 abuts the edge of a corresponding open-ended channel member 15 extending into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 thereof and integrally moulded therewith. The head 72 is frictionally engaged within the interior of the channel member 15. The plate 13 is also provided with a pair of extensions 16 at its upper corners, that provide cord guide means when the plate is closed.
The plate 13 and the closure members 14 are integrally moulded with the cover 7. The plate 13 has a flexible thinned portion 17 at its lower edge that serves to hinge it to the cover 7.
A curved spool retainer wall 24, integrally formed with the case 1, extends from the rear wall 2 into the interior of the case. The spool retainer wall 24 cooperates with the ~095165 `~ lower wall 6 of the case to form a generally cylindrical spool housing 25. A spindle 18, integrally moulded with the case 1, extends laterally into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 at the center of the spool housing 25, across the interior of the case 1. A spool 26 is rotatably mounted to the spindle 18 within the spool housing 25.
Referring to figures 2 and 3, the spool 26 comprises a hollow cylindrical spool body 27 having an exterior cord-receiving surface 28 and an interior spring-receiving surface 29. The spool is rotatably driven by drive means, comprising a flat coil spring 19, having interior and exterior ends 20 and 21 respectively. the spring 19 is positioned within the interior of the spool body 27 and is engaged to a slot 22 (shown in figure 2) recessed into the free end of the spindle 18. The spring's interior end 20 has a crimped portion 23 that slides into the slot 22, the crimp preventing the spring from slipping out of the slot. A rivet 30 attaches the exterior end 21 of the spring 19 to the interior spring-receiving surface 29 of the spool. The spring 19 may be wound up by rotating the spool 26 in a counterclockwise direction, when viewed from the front. Upon release of the spool, the spring rotatably drives the spool in a clockwise direction.
The spool body 27 is provided with a flange 31 at one end thereof. The flange has a toothed rim 32, and is positioned within the spool housing 25. A cap 33 (shown in figure 2) is press-fitted into the opposing end of the spool body. The ~ spindle extends through a central aperture 73 and is freely rotatable therein. The cap 33 serves to cover the spring 19 and prevent it from slipping off the spindle 18, and also provides a support for the spindle.
Referring to figures 2 and 4, the flange 31 acts in cooperation with a spring-loaded catch 36 slidingly engaged to the case 1, to releasably lock the spool 26 and prevent the free rotation thereof. The catch 36 is provided with a housing 37 positioned within a channel 38, the sides of the channel being comprised of the first side wall 3 of the case 1 and a vertically-oriented wall 40 extending into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 of the case. The wall 40 merges at its lower end with the spool retainer wall 24. An engagement member 41 depends downwardly from the housing 37. The engagement member has a toothed lower edge 42 with a concave curvature matching the curvature of the rim 32 of the flange 31, the toothed lower edge 42 being adapted to engage the rim 32. The catch 36 is biased downwardly by a spring 43 positioned partly within and extending upwardly from 20 the housing 37. The upper end of the spring abuts the top 5 of the case. When the catch is in the normal, downwardly-biased position, the gear engagement member engages the rim 32 of the flange 31 and prevents the spool 26 from rotating. A
square neck 44 extends outwardly from the housing and extends 25 through an aperture 45 within the first side wall 3 of the case 1. The neck 44 iS engaged to a finger-operable lever 46 ~ positioned outside the case, adapted to allow the user to push the catch upwardly, to release the spool from engagement with the catch.
The spool 26 is provided with two attachment members 50 extending radially outward from the spool body 27, positioned about 60 degrees apart from each other on the spool body.
Each attachment member 50 comprises a base 51 attached to the spool body and a terminating at its upper end in a downwardly-facing hook 52. The hook 52 is adapted to releasably engage a leg 53 of a cord rotator 54.
Referring to figures 2 and 5, the cord rotator 54 is adapted to be positioned such that its longitudinal axis is circumferential with the spool body 27. The cord rotator serves as a cord loop attachment means, and is adapted to allow the cord to slip therethrough when the cord is in the unwound phase. The cord rotator is comprised of a generally rectangular body 55 with four legs 53 extending downwardly and longitudinally outwardly from each of the four corners of the body. The body is spaced apart from and displaced radially outwardly from the cord receiving surface 28. The free end of each leg 53 terminates in an upwardly-angled foot 56, adapted to slidingly engage the hook 52 of a corresponding attachment member 50. A tab 58 depends downwardly from the body 55 and is adapted to mate with a ledge 57 recessed within the spool body 27 to further engage the cord rotator with the spool 26.
- The body 55 has a rectangular flat upper surface 60 and a belly 61 having the shape generally of an inverted saddle.
The belly 61 is adapted to slidingly engage a cord loop 11 longitudinally therewith, as illustrated in figure 5 or, alternatively, to fixedly engage the knotted free ends of a pair of free-ended cords 66, as illustrated in figure 6. Two apertures 62 extend through the body 55 within which the cords 66 may be threaded. A knot 63 is tied at the end of each cord 66 to retain the cord within the aperture. The knot 63 is held in place abutting the belly 61 by tension on the cords 66 imposed by the weight of the device dangling from the cords.
Alternatively, the free-ended cords may be engaged to the cord rotator by way of tying the ends of the cords together and positioning the knot under the belly 61.
Turning to figure 7, the device is shown fastened to a cord loop 11 of a vertical window blind set. Prior to engaging the device to a cord loop, the coil spring 19 should be in the fully wound position and the catch 36 engaged to the rim 32 of the flange 31, to prevent the spool 26 from rotating. In order to fasten the device to a cord loop, the plate 13 (shown in figures 1 and 2) is opened and the cord rotator 54 removed. The cord is then positioned longitudinally under the belly 61 of the cord rotator 54, between the legs 53 lying on either side of the body 55. The cord rotator is then re-engaged onto the spool 26 with the cord thus engaged. In the position indicated in figure 7, 2~9~165 - with the spool in the unwound position, and the spool held in position by the catch 36, the cord loop is free to slip through the device and the user can freely cycle the cord loop in either direction to rotate the window blind vanes or open or close the blind. Upon pushing the catch 36 upwards, the spring unwinds and rotates the spool, winding up the cord loop 11 onto the cord-receiving surface 28 of the spool body 27, as shown in figure 8. The catch 36 is then released to fixedly engage the spool 26 in position. When fully wound onto the spool body 27, the cord loop 11 is shortened sufficiently to keep it out of reach of young children.
The procedure may be reversed to unwind the cord loop from the spool: the catch 36 is released and the cord 11 is manually pulled from out of the device. AS the cord is unwound from the spool, the spool 26 is rotated counterclockwise, winding up the spring 19.
Referring to figure 9, the device may be provided with means to attach one or more free-ended cords 66, such as are provided with a venetian blind. Prior to engagement of the device with free-ended cords, the spool should again be engaged by the catch 36, with the coil spring 19 in the fully wound position. To attach cords 66 to the device, the free ends of the cords may be threaded through the apertures 62 within the cord rotator 54. The end of each cord is provided with an enlargement, such as a knot, to prevent the cord from slipping back through the aperture, or alternatively the two 209516~
- free ends of the cords may be simply tied together and under the belly 61. The cord rotator is then reinserted onto the spool. The device is employed in the same manner as with a cord loop to take up and release slack in the free-ended cords 66. In contrast with a vertical blind, a venetian blind may be operated with the cords partly or fully retracted by the device, since the operation of the blind requires only the simple up and down movement of its free-ended cords.
When used to take up the cords of a venetian blind, the end of each free-ended cord thereof may be engaged to cord adjustment means, for example as are used to adjust cords on garments, and the adjustment means positioned within the interior of the spool 26. Alternatively, cord adjustment means may be incorporated within the spool. The use of cord adjustment means allows the user to adjust the position of each cord relative to the other, to correct small unevenness in the length of the cords relative to each other, that may cause a venetian blind to be skewed.
Cord adjustment means for venetian blind cords may also be provided by a wedge insertable into the lower end of each aperture 62, adapted to fixedly engage a free-ended cord 66 inserted through the aperturè. With this arrangement, each cord may be adjusted by simply pulling out the wedge, sliding the cord through the aperture by the appropriate amount, and reinserting the wedge.
A second embodiment of the device, wherein the spool is 2 0 9 51 6 ~
- provided alternative cord attachment means and a rotatable end cap, is illustrated at Figures 10-17.
The housing 100 of the second embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, is comprised of a body 110, an inner cover 111 and an outer cover 112. The inner cover is fastened to the body by upper and lower pins 114, 115 extending from the body 110, releasably engageable with corresponding apertures within the inner cover. The inner cover 111 is provided with a central opening 116, to provide access to the interior of the housing. A cord divider pin 118, interposed between the entering and exiting portions of the cord, extends from the outer cover 112, through the inner cover, to the body 110 across an aperture 107. The aperture 107 is positioned within the upper face of the body 110 and extends into the interior of the housing. The divider pin 108 serves the dual functions of retaining the outer cover to the case, and providing a means for preventing the cord from becoming twisted upon itself as it enters and exits the housing. The divider pin 118 also serves, along with an engagement member 119 extending from a lower portion of the outer cover, to releasably retain the outer cover to the inner cover.
A spool assembly 120 is rotatably mounted within the housing. The spool assembly comprises a ratchet gear 121, with a generally tubular spool 122 comprising the hub thereof.
The rim 123 of the spool 122 provides a cord take-up surface on the exterior thereof. The interior of the spool is divided - into interior and exterior compartments 124, 125 by a vertical wall 126 extending across the middle thereof. The interior compartment 124 (shown in Figure 12) houses a drive spring, described below, and the exterior compartment accommodates a cord engagement means. The cord engagement means comprises a post 130, extending laterally from the wall 126 and positioned within a recess within the spool,comprising a depressed portion of the rim 123, such that the top of the post is generally flush with the exterior of the rim 123. The spool is rotatably engaged to a spindle 131 extending laterally from the rear wall of the body 100 through a spindle housing 132 extending laterally through the spool assembly. A groove 133 is recessed into the free end of the spindle to accommodate the drive spring, as described below.
The spindle housing 132 is rotatably mounted to the spindle 131 by means of a bushing 134 interposed between the spindle and housing. The bushing 134 prevents the spindle from splaying apart at the groove 133 when the spool assembly is placed under a load, as may occur in use. Any such splaying would tend to cause the spindle to bind within the housing.
When used with a cord loop, as shown in Figures 13 through 15, a portion of cord is positioned within the device and extends around the post 130. When thus positioned, in the unretracted position shown in Figures 13 - 15, the cord is free to slide through the device, about the post 130. when in - the retracted position, shown in Figure 17, the cord is fully or partly wound up about the spool 122, and is incapable of sliding through the device.
The cord engagement means may also engage the free ends of a pair of venetian blind cords, as shown in Figure 16. The cord ends are inserted through a slot 135 extending through the depressed portion of the spool rim 123, and the free ends of the cord are knotted to retain the cords within the slot.
When used in this fashion, the device functions in generally the same fashion as a conventional cord take-up device. The cords of a venetian blind may also be provided in the form of a loop, which may be engaged to the device in the same manner as the cord loop of a vertical blind. When used in this fashion, the device serves to equalize the lengths of the respective sides of the venetian blind cord loop.
The spool assembly is rotatably driven by a coil drive spring 140, shown in Figures 11 and 12, housed within the interior compartment of the spool. An inner end of the spring is engaged within the groove 133, and the outer end thereof is engaged by a slot 142 extending through the spool assembly at the rim 123. The spring is positioned to drive the spool assembly counterclockwise, the winding up of the spring being effected by the clockwise rotation of the spool assembly resulting from the unwinding of the cord from about the spool as the cord is pulled out from the device.
Referring to Figures 11 and 17, a ratchet 145, positioned - within the housing 100, releasably engages teeth 146 extending around the perimeter of the gear 121, to prevent counterclockwise rotation (when viewed from the front) of the spool assembly except when released. The spool assembly is free rotate in the clockwise direction, the rotation thereof in this direction being resisted by the action of the drive spring rotationally biasing the spool assembly in the counterclockwise direction. The ratchet 145 is actuated by means of a button 148 extending outwardly from the housing.
A spring 147 biases the ratchet laterally, to prevent disengagement of the gear 121 until the button 148 is depressed, which allows the spool assembly to be driven by the drive spring 140 in the counterclockwise direction to retract the cord 8, as shown in Figure 17.
The spool assembly is capped by a retainer 160, shown in Figure 11, that serves to retain the cord on the spool assembly and selectively provide user access thereto to enable positioning of the cord about the cord engagement means. The retainer further allows the user to wind up the cord about the spool during initial assembly of the device. The retainer is provided with a rim 161. shown in Figures 14 and 15, rotatably engageable to the spool. The retainer 160 is rotatable between first and second positions, comprising an access positlon, seen in Figure 14, and a use position, seen in Figure 15. A pair of openings 162 are provided to facilitate the user's grip on the retainer, and a generally elbow-shaped 2095~BS
- opening 163 provides user access to the cord engagement means when the retainer is in the access position. In the use position, seen in Figure 15, the cord engagement means is partly covered by the end cap, and the cord is prevented thereby from sliding off the engagement means.
Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the ~etainer is provided with first, second and third posts 164ta), (b) and (c) extending inwardly therefrom, towards the interior of the case. The second and third posts 164(b) and (c) are adapted to releasably engage a stop member 165 on the spool assembly, to limit the rotational movement of the retainer and provide the two position movement thereof. The stop member 165 is shaped to engage the posts with a snap-lock type of action.
The third post 164(C) comprises à force transfer member and is adapted to cooperate with the first post 164(a), which is positioned to engage a portion of the rim 123 of the spool adjacent the post 130, to transfer rotational force applied by the user from the retainer to the spool assembly, to allow the user to provide an initial wind up of the cord about the spool assembly prior to initial installation of the cord. It will be seen that although the posts illustrated herein extend from the retainer, they could equally well extend from the spool, with the stop member extending from the retainer.
Turning to Figure 18, the rear face of the housing 100 is provided with a chain hanger 170, adapted to allow the user to drape surplus chain 171 thereon, for use with blinds provided with a vane-rotation chain.
Although the present invention has been described in detail by way of preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a reversible cord retraction device for the taking up of slack in dangling window blind cords.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
For safety and aesthetic reasons it is desirable to prevent the cords of window blinds from dangling excessively.
One means to accomplish this is to retract a portion of the cord. In the case of vertical blinds (i.e.~ window blinds wherein the slats are oriented vertically), this requires a device capable of retracting a cord loop, since the blind opening cord of a vertical blind typically comprises a long continuous loop, which is cycled alternately in one direction or the other for the opening or closing of the blind. A
retraction device for a cord loop must be capable of bimodal functioning, wherein in its unretracted phase it allows the cord to freely slip through the device in order to allow the cord loop to cycle through the blind head. In its retracted phase, the cord is partly or fully wound up about a spool.
While retraction devices for the taking up of slack in free-ended cords, chains and the like (all of which will be collectively referred to herein as "cord") exist for many applications, a device specifically adapted for use in 2~5165 - association with a continuously cycled cord loop has not heretofore been developed.
It is desirable to provide a device capable as well of retracting the free-ended cords found in venetian blinds.
Further, it is desirable to provide a device that is capable of easy initial installation to a cord, for the convenience of the user.
Existing retraction devices do not provide an adequate solution to the requirements of a cycling cord loop, such as is found in a vertical window blind. For example, the cord retraction device disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,271,893 (McClusky) comprises a typical arrangement of a spring-driven spool rotatably engaged within a housing; means are not provided to allow a cord loop to slip through the device, when the cord is in the unretracted phase.
Retraction devices typically comprise two elements: a rotatable take-up spool and a spool support. The take-up spool is generally spring-driven, although it may also be rotated by a crank. The spring is typically a coil spring positioned inside the spool, one end thereof being fastened to the perimeter of the spool and the other end being fastened to a central spindle engaged to the spool support. The spool support is generally incorporated into a case, with the cord entering the case through an aperture extending through the wall of the case. The aperture directs the cord towards the spool. There may also be provided spool lock means, to ~516~
- releasably lock the spool in either the wound or unwound positions, or any intermediary position. In order to provide a bimodal cord attachment means, it is necessary that the spool be provided with means to slidingly engage the cord during the unwound phase of the operation of the device.
In general, it is desirable that any such device be simple and easy to use, in order to minimize manufacturing costs, provide ease of assembly and use, and be reliable and long lasting. Accordingly, it is desirable that the number and complexity of components of the device be reduced to a minimum.
It is further desirable in any such device that it be adapted to allow easy user access to the spool, since in most cases, such a device will be an ~aftermarket" product. At the same time, the spool must be adequately enclosed to prevent the cord from slipping and jamming between the case and the spool. Accordingly, cord retainer means are desirable about the spool that serve the dual functions of user access and cord retention.
Further, it is desirable to provide easy means to wind up the drive spring of the device during initial installation of the device to a cord. Such devices are typically sold with the spring unwound, with the user being required to provide an initial wind-up prior to attaching the cord to the spool. The initial wind-up can be cumbersome unless convenient means to accomplish this are provided.
2095I6~
~-- It is further desirable to provide means to prevent the spool from binding about its spindle. Typically, the drive spring comprises a coil spring retained within a slot within an end of the spindle. The forces exerted by the spring tend to splay the spindle apart at the slot, resulting in binding of the spool to the spindle. Means are required to prevent the splaying of the spindle, while still allowing for the free rotation of the spool about the spindle.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cord take-up device adapted for use with the cord loop of a vertical blind. It is a further object of the invention to provide a device capable as well of taking up the free-ended cords of a venetian blind. It is a further object to provide a device capable of simple fabrication, assembly and use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a cord retraction device comprising a spool having a cord-receiving surface, drive means to rotate the spool, and cord guide means to direct cord towards the cord-receiving surface of the spool to be wound up thereon. The spool is provided with cord loop attachment means adapted to engage a cord loop, wherein the loop may slip freely through the attachment means when the cord is in an 2~ 516S
~ unwound position.
The cord loop attachment means may comprise a member fixedly or removably engaged to and spaced apart from the cord-receiving surface of the spool.
5In a further aspect of the invention, the spool is provided with a retainer engaged to an end thereof and adapted to retain the cord on a cord-receiving surface of the spool.
The retainer is rotatable between first and second positions, wherein in the first position the attachment means is exposed for user access thereto, and in the second position, the retainer cooperates with the spool to retain the cord on the cord receiving surface thereof. The retainer may be further provided with force transfer means to allow for the initial wind-up of a cord about the spool.
15There may also be provided a bushing interposed between a spool spindle and a spindle housing within the spool. The spindle has been provided with a slot within its free end to retain a coil drive spring. The bushing is adapted to prevent the spindle from splaying apart within the housing, resulting in binding of the spool about the spindle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cord retraction device according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is an exploded view of the device, in perspective;
~516a ~ Figure 3 is a front elevational view of the spool portion of the device;
Figure 4 is a front elevational view of the device, with the front cover removed;
Figure 5 is a sectional view of a cord rotator with a cord loop engaged thereto;
Figure 6 is a sectional view of a cord rotator with a pair of free-ended cords engaged thereto;
Figure 7 is front elevational view as in figure 4, showing the device in use with a cord loop, with the front cover removed;
Figure 8 is a view as in figure 7, showing the device with cord wound up thereon;
Figure 9 is a view as in figure 7, showing the device in use with a pair of free-ended cords.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention;
Figure 11 is an exploded view, in perspective, of the second embodiment;
~U9~165 ~ Figure 12 is a rear elevational view of the spool assembly of the second embodiment, with the drive spring positioned therein;
Figure 13 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment, with the outer cover removed, showing the device with the retainer positioned in the cord installation position and a cord loop installed therein;
Figure 14 is a front elevational view of a spool assembly of the second embodiment, showing the retainer in the cord installation position, with a cord loop installed;
Figure 15 is a front elevational view as in Figure 14, showing the retainer in the use position;
Figure 16 is a front elevational view as in Figure 13, showing two free-ended cords installed therein;
Figure 17 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment, showing a cord loop wound onto the spool assembly;
Figure 18 is a perspective view of the second embodiment, showing the rear face thereof, with a chain loop engaged thereto.
2~51~
`~ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to figures 1 and 2, a first embodiment of the retraction device according to the present invention is provided with a rigid moulded plastic case 1, comprised of a rear wall 2, first and second side walls 3 and 4, respectively, a top 5, a convexly-curved lower wall 6 merging with said side walls, and a removable front cover 7. The cover 7 is fastened to the case by way of three screws 8. A
central aperture 9 and first and second peripheral apertures 10(a) and (b), respectively, positioned on either side thereof extend through the top 5.
The device may be engaged to either a looped cord or one or more free-ended cords; in figure 1, the device is shown engaged to a cord loop 11, such as is typically employed in a vertical blind. Cord guide means direct the cord into the device towards a wind-up spool. The guide means comprise a first peripheral aperture 10(a), through which the cord enters the case. The cord exits the case through a second peripheral aperture 10(b). The device may also be used with a pair of free-ended cords 66 such as are typically employed in venetian blinds, as shown in figure 9; for this purpose, both cords enter the case through a central aperture 9.
The cover 7 has an access opening 12, to allow the user access to the interior of the case, to engage the device to a cord. The opening 12 consists of a large central slot ~0951S~
`~ extending from the upper edge of the cover to slightly below the midpoint thereof. A hinged plate 13 covers the opening 12, and may be opened to allow access into the case. The plate 13 is snap-fitted shut by means of a pair of laterally-extending closure members 14 positioned adjacent the upperedge of the plate 13, both of which face towards the interior of the case 1 when the plate is`closed. Each closure member 14 comprises a base 70 and a head 72. The base 70 extends upwardly from to the interior surface of the plate 13, and terminates at its upper end in a shelf 71. The head 72, smaller in cross section than the base, extends upwardly from the shelf 71. When the plate 13 is snap-fitted shut, the shelf 71 abuts the edge of a corresponding open-ended channel member 15 extending into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 thereof and integrally moulded therewith. The head 72 is frictionally engaged within the interior of the channel member 15. The plate 13 is also provided with a pair of extensions 16 at its upper corners, that provide cord guide means when the plate is closed.
The plate 13 and the closure members 14 are integrally moulded with the cover 7. The plate 13 has a flexible thinned portion 17 at its lower edge that serves to hinge it to the cover 7.
A curved spool retainer wall 24, integrally formed with the case 1, extends from the rear wall 2 into the interior of the case. The spool retainer wall 24 cooperates with the ~095165 `~ lower wall 6 of the case to form a generally cylindrical spool housing 25. A spindle 18, integrally moulded with the case 1, extends laterally into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 at the center of the spool housing 25, across the interior of the case 1. A spool 26 is rotatably mounted to the spindle 18 within the spool housing 25.
Referring to figures 2 and 3, the spool 26 comprises a hollow cylindrical spool body 27 having an exterior cord-receiving surface 28 and an interior spring-receiving surface 29. The spool is rotatably driven by drive means, comprising a flat coil spring 19, having interior and exterior ends 20 and 21 respectively. the spring 19 is positioned within the interior of the spool body 27 and is engaged to a slot 22 (shown in figure 2) recessed into the free end of the spindle 18. The spring's interior end 20 has a crimped portion 23 that slides into the slot 22, the crimp preventing the spring from slipping out of the slot. A rivet 30 attaches the exterior end 21 of the spring 19 to the interior spring-receiving surface 29 of the spool. The spring 19 may be wound up by rotating the spool 26 in a counterclockwise direction, when viewed from the front. Upon release of the spool, the spring rotatably drives the spool in a clockwise direction.
The spool body 27 is provided with a flange 31 at one end thereof. The flange has a toothed rim 32, and is positioned within the spool housing 25. A cap 33 (shown in figure 2) is press-fitted into the opposing end of the spool body. The ~ spindle extends through a central aperture 73 and is freely rotatable therein. The cap 33 serves to cover the spring 19 and prevent it from slipping off the spindle 18, and also provides a support for the spindle.
Referring to figures 2 and 4, the flange 31 acts in cooperation with a spring-loaded catch 36 slidingly engaged to the case 1, to releasably lock the spool 26 and prevent the free rotation thereof. The catch 36 is provided with a housing 37 positioned within a channel 38, the sides of the channel being comprised of the first side wall 3 of the case 1 and a vertically-oriented wall 40 extending into the interior of the case from the rear wall 2 of the case. The wall 40 merges at its lower end with the spool retainer wall 24. An engagement member 41 depends downwardly from the housing 37. The engagement member has a toothed lower edge 42 with a concave curvature matching the curvature of the rim 32 of the flange 31, the toothed lower edge 42 being adapted to engage the rim 32. The catch 36 is biased downwardly by a spring 43 positioned partly within and extending upwardly from 20 the housing 37. The upper end of the spring abuts the top 5 of the case. When the catch is in the normal, downwardly-biased position, the gear engagement member engages the rim 32 of the flange 31 and prevents the spool 26 from rotating. A
square neck 44 extends outwardly from the housing and extends 25 through an aperture 45 within the first side wall 3 of the case 1. The neck 44 iS engaged to a finger-operable lever 46 ~ positioned outside the case, adapted to allow the user to push the catch upwardly, to release the spool from engagement with the catch.
The spool 26 is provided with two attachment members 50 extending radially outward from the spool body 27, positioned about 60 degrees apart from each other on the spool body.
Each attachment member 50 comprises a base 51 attached to the spool body and a terminating at its upper end in a downwardly-facing hook 52. The hook 52 is adapted to releasably engage a leg 53 of a cord rotator 54.
Referring to figures 2 and 5, the cord rotator 54 is adapted to be positioned such that its longitudinal axis is circumferential with the spool body 27. The cord rotator serves as a cord loop attachment means, and is adapted to allow the cord to slip therethrough when the cord is in the unwound phase. The cord rotator is comprised of a generally rectangular body 55 with four legs 53 extending downwardly and longitudinally outwardly from each of the four corners of the body. The body is spaced apart from and displaced radially outwardly from the cord receiving surface 28. The free end of each leg 53 terminates in an upwardly-angled foot 56, adapted to slidingly engage the hook 52 of a corresponding attachment member 50. A tab 58 depends downwardly from the body 55 and is adapted to mate with a ledge 57 recessed within the spool body 27 to further engage the cord rotator with the spool 26.
- The body 55 has a rectangular flat upper surface 60 and a belly 61 having the shape generally of an inverted saddle.
The belly 61 is adapted to slidingly engage a cord loop 11 longitudinally therewith, as illustrated in figure 5 or, alternatively, to fixedly engage the knotted free ends of a pair of free-ended cords 66, as illustrated in figure 6. Two apertures 62 extend through the body 55 within which the cords 66 may be threaded. A knot 63 is tied at the end of each cord 66 to retain the cord within the aperture. The knot 63 is held in place abutting the belly 61 by tension on the cords 66 imposed by the weight of the device dangling from the cords.
Alternatively, the free-ended cords may be engaged to the cord rotator by way of tying the ends of the cords together and positioning the knot under the belly 61.
Turning to figure 7, the device is shown fastened to a cord loop 11 of a vertical window blind set. Prior to engaging the device to a cord loop, the coil spring 19 should be in the fully wound position and the catch 36 engaged to the rim 32 of the flange 31, to prevent the spool 26 from rotating. In order to fasten the device to a cord loop, the plate 13 (shown in figures 1 and 2) is opened and the cord rotator 54 removed. The cord is then positioned longitudinally under the belly 61 of the cord rotator 54, between the legs 53 lying on either side of the body 55. The cord rotator is then re-engaged onto the spool 26 with the cord thus engaged. In the position indicated in figure 7, 2~9~165 - with the spool in the unwound position, and the spool held in position by the catch 36, the cord loop is free to slip through the device and the user can freely cycle the cord loop in either direction to rotate the window blind vanes or open or close the blind. Upon pushing the catch 36 upwards, the spring unwinds and rotates the spool, winding up the cord loop 11 onto the cord-receiving surface 28 of the spool body 27, as shown in figure 8. The catch 36 is then released to fixedly engage the spool 26 in position. When fully wound onto the spool body 27, the cord loop 11 is shortened sufficiently to keep it out of reach of young children.
The procedure may be reversed to unwind the cord loop from the spool: the catch 36 is released and the cord 11 is manually pulled from out of the device. AS the cord is unwound from the spool, the spool 26 is rotated counterclockwise, winding up the spring 19.
Referring to figure 9, the device may be provided with means to attach one or more free-ended cords 66, such as are provided with a venetian blind. Prior to engagement of the device with free-ended cords, the spool should again be engaged by the catch 36, with the coil spring 19 in the fully wound position. To attach cords 66 to the device, the free ends of the cords may be threaded through the apertures 62 within the cord rotator 54. The end of each cord is provided with an enlargement, such as a knot, to prevent the cord from slipping back through the aperture, or alternatively the two 209516~
- free ends of the cords may be simply tied together and under the belly 61. The cord rotator is then reinserted onto the spool. The device is employed in the same manner as with a cord loop to take up and release slack in the free-ended cords 66. In contrast with a vertical blind, a venetian blind may be operated with the cords partly or fully retracted by the device, since the operation of the blind requires only the simple up and down movement of its free-ended cords.
When used to take up the cords of a venetian blind, the end of each free-ended cord thereof may be engaged to cord adjustment means, for example as are used to adjust cords on garments, and the adjustment means positioned within the interior of the spool 26. Alternatively, cord adjustment means may be incorporated within the spool. The use of cord adjustment means allows the user to adjust the position of each cord relative to the other, to correct small unevenness in the length of the cords relative to each other, that may cause a venetian blind to be skewed.
Cord adjustment means for venetian blind cords may also be provided by a wedge insertable into the lower end of each aperture 62, adapted to fixedly engage a free-ended cord 66 inserted through the aperturè. With this arrangement, each cord may be adjusted by simply pulling out the wedge, sliding the cord through the aperture by the appropriate amount, and reinserting the wedge.
A second embodiment of the device, wherein the spool is 2 0 9 51 6 ~
- provided alternative cord attachment means and a rotatable end cap, is illustrated at Figures 10-17.
The housing 100 of the second embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, is comprised of a body 110, an inner cover 111 and an outer cover 112. The inner cover is fastened to the body by upper and lower pins 114, 115 extending from the body 110, releasably engageable with corresponding apertures within the inner cover. The inner cover 111 is provided with a central opening 116, to provide access to the interior of the housing. A cord divider pin 118, interposed between the entering and exiting portions of the cord, extends from the outer cover 112, through the inner cover, to the body 110 across an aperture 107. The aperture 107 is positioned within the upper face of the body 110 and extends into the interior of the housing. The divider pin 108 serves the dual functions of retaining the outer cover to the case, and providing a means for preventing the cord from becoming twisted upon itself as it enters and exits the housing. The divider pin 118 also serves, along with an engagement member 119 extending from a lower portion of the outer cover, to releasably retain the outer cover to the inner cover.
A spool assembly 120 is rotatably mounted within the housing. The spool assembly comprises a ratchet gear 121, with a generally tubular spool 122 comprising the hub thereof.
The rim 123 of the spool 122 provides a cord take-up surface on the exterior thereof. The interior of the spool is divided - into interior and exterior compartments 124, 125 by a vertical wall 126 extending across the middle thereof. The interior compartment 124 (shown in Figure 12) houses a drive spring, described below, and the exterior compartment accommodates a cord engagement means. The cord engagement means comprises a post 130, extending laterally from the wall 126 and positioned within a recess within the spool,comprising a depressed portion of the rim 123, such that the top of the post is generally flush with the exterior of the rim 123. The spool is rotatably engaged to a spindle 131 extending laterally from the rear wall of the body 100 through a spindle housing 132 extending laterally through the spool assembly. A groove 133 is recessed into the free end of the spindle to accommodate the drive spring, as described below.
The spindle housing 132 is rotatably mounted to the spindle 131 by means of a bushing 134 interposed between the spindle and housing. The bushing 134 prevents the spindle from splaying apart at the groove 133 when the spool assembly is placed under a load, as may occur in use. Any such splaying would tend to cause the spindle to bind within the housing.
When used with a cord loop, as shown in Figures 13 through 15, a portion of cord is positioned within the device and extends around the post 130. When thus positioned, in the unretracted position shown in Figures 13 - 15, the cord is free to slide through the device, about the post 130. when in - the retracted position, shown in Figure 17, the cord is fully or partly wound up about the spool 122, and is incapable of sliding through the device.
The cord engagement means may also engage the free ends of a pair of venetian blind cords, as shown in Figure 16. The cord ends are inserted through a slot 135 extending through the depressed portion of the spool rim 123, and the free ends of the cord are knotted to retain the cords within the slot.
When used in this fashion, the device functions in generally the same fashion as a conventional cord take-up device. The cords of a venetian blind may also be provided in the form of a loop, which may be engaged to the device in the same manner as the cord loop of a vertical blind. When used in this fashion, the device serves to equalize the lengths of the respective sides of the venetian blind cord loop.
The spool assembly is rotatably driven by a coil drive spring 140, shown in Figures 11 and 12, housed within the interior compartment of the spool. An inner end of the spring is engaged within the groove 133, and the outer end thereof is engaged by a slot 142 extending through the spool assembly at the rim 123. The spring is positioned to drive the spool assembly counterclockwise, the winding up of the spring being effected by the clockwise rotation of the spool assembly resulting from the unwinding of the cord from about the spool as the cord is pulled out from the device.
Referring to Figures 11 and 17, a ratchet 145, positioned - within the housing 100, releasably engages teeth 146 extending around the perimeter of the gear 121, to prevent counterclockwise rotation (when viewed from the front) of the spool assembly except when released. The spool assembly is free rotate in the clockwise direction, the rotation thereof in this direction being resisted by the action of the drive spring rotationally biasing the spool assembly in the counterclockwise direction. The ratchet 145 is actuated by means of a button 148 extending outwardly from the housing.
A spring 147 biases the ratchet laterally, to prevent disengagement of the gear 121 until the button 148 is depressed, which allows the spool assembly to be driven by the drive spring 140 in the counterclockwise direction to retract the cord 8, as shown in Figure 17.
The spool assembly is capped by a retainer 160, shown in Figure 11, that serves to retain the cord on the spool assembly and selectively provide user access thereto to enable positioning of the cord about the cord engagement means. The retainer further allows the user to wind up the cord about the spool during initial assembly of the device. The retainer is provided with a rim 161. shown in Figures 14 and 15, rotatably engageable to the spool. The retainer 160 is rotatable between first and second positions, comprising an access positlon, seen in Figure 14, and a use position, seen in Figure 15. A pair of openings 162 are provided to facilitate the user's grip on the retainer, and a generally elbow-shaped 2095~BS
- opening 163 provides user access to the cord engagement means when the retainer is in the access position. In the use position, seen in Figure 15, the cord engagement means is partly covered by the end cap, and the cord is prevented thereby from sliding off the engagement means.
Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the ~etainer is provided with first, second and third posts 164ta), (b) and (c) extending inwardly therefrom, towards the interior of the case. The second and third posts 164(b) and (c) are adapted to releasably engage a stop member 165 on the spool assembly, to limit the rotational movement of the retainer and provide the two position movement thereof. The stop member 165 is shaped to engage the posts with a snap-lock type of action.
The third post 164(C) comprises à force transfer member and is adapted to cooperate with the first post 164(a), which is positioned to engage a portion of the rim 123 of the spool adjacent the post 130, to transfer rotational force applied by the user from the retainer to the spool assembly, to allow the user to provide an initial wind up of the cord about the spool assembly prior to initial installation of the cord. It will be seen that although the posts illustrated herein extend from the retainer, they could equally well extend from the spool, with the stop member extending from the retainer.
Turning to Figure 18, the rear face of the housing 100 is provided with a chain hanger 170, adapted to allow the user to drape surplus chain 171 thereon, for use with blinds provided with a vane-rotation chain.
Although the present invention has been described in detail by way of preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.
Claims (8)
1. A cord retraction device for window coverings, comprising a spool having a cord-receiving surface, drive means to rotate said spool, and cord guide means to direct a cord towards said cord-receiving surface of the spool to be wound up thereon, said spool having a cord loop attachment member that engages to said spool a cord loop formed by said cord, said attachment member being fixedly linked to and extending from said cord receiving surface and having a passage therethrough, said passage having sufficient diameter to permit said cord loop to slide therethrough when in an unwound position on said spool.
2. A device as in claim 1, wherein said member extends outwardly from the cord-receiving surface thereof.
3. A device as in claim 2 wherein said member is releasably engaged to said spool.
4. A device as in claim 3 wherein said member is comprised of a body and four legs depending downwardly therefrom, each of said legs having a foot at the free end thereof releasably engaged to said spool, said body being adapted to slidingly engage said cord loop between said legs.
5. A device as in claim 1, wherein said drive means comprise a coil spring positioned within the interior of the spool engaged at one end thereof to a fixed shaft axial to said spool and to the spool at the other end thereof.
6. A device as in claim 1, having a housing, with the spool and drive means disposed within said housing.
7. A device as in claim 6 wherein said housing is provided with an aperture to permit user access to said attachment means.
8. A device as in claim 1, wherein there is further provided a catch to releasably engage said spool and prevent the rotation thereof relative to the cord guide means.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/877,212 US5279473A (en) | 1992-05-01 | 1992-05-01 | Cord retraction device |
| US07/877,212 | 1992-05-01 | ||
| US08/022,891 | 1993-02-26 | ||
| US08/022,891 US5354011A (en) | 1993-02-26 | 1993-02-26 | Take-up reel for window blind cords |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2095165A1 CA2095165A1 (en) | 1993-11-02 |
| CA2095165C true CA2095165C (en) | 1996-06-25 |
Family
ID=26696478
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2095165 Expired - Fee Related CA2095165C (en) | 1992-05-01 | 1993-04-29 | Retraction device for window blind cords |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU4256793A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2095165C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1993022533A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5630456A (en) * | 1996-05-08 | 1997-05-20 | Hugo; Marie J. R. | Window blind cord winding apparatus |
| CN104528480B (en) * | 2014-12-26 | 2017-02-22 | 市下控股有限公司 | Automatic retraction speed reduction device of winder |
| CN107720456B (en) * | 2017-11-10 | 2024-01-30 | 国网江苏省电力公司泰州供电公司 | An anti-rewinding wire take-up device for power grid |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR512077A (en) * | 1920-03-20 | 1921-01-14 | Pierre Andre Emmanuel Fernande | Winder for electric wires |
| US3147833A (en) * | 1960-12-19 | 1964-09-08 | John R Mcwilliams | Coiler for flexible members such as electric cords |
| US4271893A (en) * | 1979-03-26 | 1981-06-09 | Mccluskey William A | Window blind cord control apparatus |
| US4646987A (en) * | 1985-08-30 | 1987-03-03 | Peterson Edwin R | Take-up reel for tape containing conductors |
-
1993
- 1993-04-29 AU AU42567/93A patent/AU4256793A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1993-04-29 WO PCT/CA1993/000171 patent/WO1993022533A1/en active Application Filing
- 1993-04-29 CA CA 2095165 patent/CA2095165C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU4256793A (en) | 1993-11-29 |
| CA2095165A1 (en) | 1993-11-02 |
| WO1993022533A1 (en) | 1993-11-11 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5279473A (en) | Cord retraction device | |
| US5354011A (en) | Take-up reel for window blind cords | |
| US7096917B2 (en) | One way brake for a cordless blind | |
| US6056036A (en) | Cordless shade | |
| US6375165B1 (en) | Movable barrier for infants | |
| US6675861B2 (en) | Brake for a cordless blind | |
| EP2126265B1 (en) | Control system for architectural coverings with reversible drive and single operating element | |
| CA2291314C (en) | End cap and mounting support combination | |
| CA2310074C (en) | Release brake for roller shades and other window coverings | |
| US20080251622A1 (en) | Looped-cord tensioner for an architectural covering | |
| US20060065373A1 (en) | Cordless activating device for a venetian blind | |
| US20120211180A1 (en) | Loop Cord Tension Device for Window Coverings | |
| US20240110439A1 (en) | Operating systems and rail assemblies for coverings for architectural structures and related coverings | |
| CA2095165C (en) | Retraction device for window blind cords | |
| GB2175194A (en) | Seat belt assembly | |
| US20020144792A1 (en) | Window treatment assembly pull-cord keeper | |
| US11866992B2 (en) | Cordless operating safety blind | |
| US8235087B2 (en) | Roll-up closure | |
| US11046234B2 (en) | Ratchet tie-down device | |
| US20120175449A1 (en) | Pull-cord keeper for window treatment assembles | |
| JPH089355Y2 (en) | Handle and storage reel for lifting cords for blinds | |
| CN222466197U (en) | Lacing device | |
| US3341150A (en) | Retractable safety belt | |
| JPH0446595Y2 (en) | ||
| KR102757554B1 (en) | Clutch for roller blind |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |