CA2096473A1 - Positive shade operating system - Google Patents
Positive shade operating systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2096473A1 CA2096473A1 CA002096473A CA2096473A CA2096473A1 CA 2096473 A1 CA2096473 A1 CA 2096473A1 CA 002096473 A CA002096473 A CA 002096473A CA 2096473 A CA2096473 A CA 2096473A CA 2096473 A1 CA2096473 A1 CA 2096473A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- shade
- roller
- opening
- actuator bar
- spring
- 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
- E06B9/28—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
- E06B9/324—Cord-locks
-
- 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
- E06B9/322—Details of operating devices, e.g. pulleys, brakes, spring drums, drives
-
- 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
- E06B9/56—Operating, guiding or securing devices or arrangements for roll-type closures; Spring drums; Tape drums; Counterweighting arrangements therefor
- E06B9/64—Operating, guiding or securing devices or arrangements for roll-type closures; Spring drums; Tape drums; Counterweighting arrangements therefor with lowerable roller
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Blinds (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A shade having a closure member to be moved from one end of an opening to the other and between a stored and an extended position for the shade, the shade comprising a roller at one end of the shade. Means to drive the roller. At least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade. An actuator bar attached to the cord. An engagement mechanism acts to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening. There is a stopping device that enables stopping of the shade in a desired position in the opening. The engagement mechanism can be overcome to allow movement of the shade.
A shade having a closure member to be moved from one end of an opening to the other and between a stored and an extended position for the shade, the shade comprising a roller at one end of the shade. Means to drive the roller. At least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade. An actuator bar attached to the cord. An engagement mechanism acts to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening. There is a stopping device that enables stopping of the shade in a desired position in the opening. The engagement mechanism can be overcome to allow movement of the shade.
Description
-` 209S'~73 41691-ll POSITIVE SHADE OPERATING SYSTEM
This invention relates to a window shade.
Co-pending Canadian application Serial No. 2,090,542 filed February 26, 1993 describes a shade that has a drive roller at one of its ends. A draw cord extends from the drive roller, through openings in the shade, to a distal end of the shade. There is an actuator bar attached to the draw cord and movement of the actuator bar when the shade is in the extended position activates the drive roller to roll the draw cord round the drive roller to draw the closure member towards the drive roller. In an illustrated embodiment in the co-pending patent application, the drive roller includes a coil spring to supply a drive force. The coil spring is mounted in the roller on a shaft and there is an end plate on the shaft. There is a ratchet on the shaft and a pawl is mounted on the end plate to engage the ratchet.
Extension of the closure member coils the spring and the pawl locks on the ratchet in the extended position to pxevent movement of the shade. ~eliberate movement of the shade releases the pawl to allow the spring to rotate the drive roll to gather the draw cord around the roller and thus retract the closure member. The ratchet and pawl member thus comprise a clutch.
The prime interest in making the above invention was, as indicated in the disclosure of the application, the elimination of external manual draw cords. These draw cords, which are used in the prior art, to raise and llower the blinds, are a hazard. There have been a number of cases of young children being strangled on draw cords by becoming entangled in a cord.
The above invention is successful in avoiding the possibility of such tragedies, and the present invention achieves the same object and provides a shade that is 2 ~ 7 3 useful in all the circumstances in which the shade of the co-pending application is useful.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a shade having a closure member able to be moved from one end of an opening to the other end between a stored and an extended position for the shade, the shade comprising, means to drive the roller at one end of the shade; at least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade; an actuator bar attached to the draw cord; engagement means to act to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening; and means to allow the overcoming of said engagement means to allow movement of the shade.
The present invention may include a coil spring to drive the roller. The spring may be mounted in the roller. External springs and elastic cords, for example of rubber, may also be used to drive the roller.
, In one embodiment, the engagement means comprises a pair of catches, one at each end of the actuator bar and a track at each side of the shade. Each catch can be mounted on a rod that is generally L-shapPd. There is an opening in the actuator bar and the rods extend through the opening so that the rods can be gripped and moved -towards each other to retract the catches.
The track may comprise a plurality of projections, ;
each with the configuration of a ratchet. A catch can ;
slide over the projections as the shade is closed but, when extended, engages the underside of the projections.
The closure may be a continuous sheet, having a plurality of fold line~ to allow the sheet to concertina or gather or may comprise of plurality of slats carried ~ 2~9~73 by a support ladder. The slats can then be tilted.
Typically a wand is used in this arrangement, which is well known in the art.
The slats may have projections at each end, analogous to the catches on the actuator bar. The projections are received in a channel at each side of the shade. The channel may be formed with the projections that also act to engage the catches of the actuator bar.
The invention is illustrated in the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is an exploded view of a shade according to the preæent invention;
Figures 2a and 2b are exploded details of drive mechanisms;
Figure 3 shows one slat that may be used according to the present invention;
Figure 4 illustrates an actuator bar;
Figure 5 illustrates a further drive mechanism;
Figures 5a through 5d illustrate possible positioning of the drive mechanism of Figure 5; and Figure 6 illustrates a modification of the shade structure.
Figure 1 shows a shade 10 having a closure mem~er able to be moved from one end of an opening to the other.
In Figure 1 the closure member comprises a plurality of slats 12 carried by support ladders comprising outer strings 14 and cross ætrings 16, extending between the outer strings 14, that carry the slats 12. Figure 1 ~how~ a wand 18 attached to a gear box 20 that drives a shaft 22. Rotation of the wand 18 rotates the shaft 22 that draw~ up one end of the ladder to tilt the slats 12.
This is conventional in the art.
.
This invention relates to a window shade.
Co-pending Canadian application Serial No. 2,090,542 filed February 26, 1993 describes a shade that has a drive roller at one of its ends. A draw cord extends from the drive roller, through openings in the shade, to a distal end of the shade. There is an actuator bar attached to the draw cord and movement of the actuator bar when the shade is in the extended position activates the drive roller to roll the draw cord round the drive roller to draw the closure member towards the drive roller. In an illustrated embodiment in the co-pending patent application, the drive roller includes a coil spring to supply a drive force. The coil spring is mounted in the roller on a shaft and there is an end plate on the shaft. There is a ratchet on the shaft and a pawl is mounted on the end plate to engage the ratchet.
Extension of the closure member coils the spring and the pawl locks on the ratchet in the extended position to pxevent movement of the shade. ~eliberate movement of the shade releases the pawl to allow the spring to rotate the drive roll to gather the draw cord around the roller and thus retract the closure member. The ratchet and pawl member thus comprise a clutch.
The prime interest in making the above invention was, as indicated in the disclosure of the application, the elimination of external manual draw cords. These draw cords, which are used in the prior art, to raise and llower the blinds, are a hazard. There have been a number of cases of young children being strangled on draw cords by becoming entangled in a cord.
The above invention is successful in avoiding the possibility of such tragedies, and the present invention achieves the same object and provides a shade that is 2 ~ 7 3 useful in all the circumstances in which the shade of the co-pending application is useful.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a shade having a closure member able to be moved from one end of an opening to the other end between a stored and an extended position for the shade, the shade comprising, means to drive the roller at one end of the shade; at least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade; an actuator bar attached to the draw cord; engagement means to act to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening; and means to allow the overcoming of said engagement means to allow movement of the shade.
The present invention may include a coil spring to drive the roller. The spring may be mounted in the roller. External springs and elastic cords, for example of rubber, may also be used to drive the roller.
, In one embodiment, the engagement means comprises a pair of catches, one at each end of the actuator bar and a track at each side of the shade. Each catch can be mounted on a rod that is generally L-shapPd. There is an opening in the actuator bar and the rods extend through the opening so that the rods can be gripped and moved -towards each other to retract the catches.
The track may comprise a plurality of projections, ;
each with the configuration of a ratchet. A catch can ;
slide over the projections as the shade is closed but, when extended, engages the underside of the projections.
The closure may be a continuous sheet, having a plurality of fold line~ to allow the sheet to concertina or gather or may comprise of plurality of slats carried ~ 2~9~73 by a support ladder. The slats can then be tilted.
Typically a wand is used in this arrangement, which is well known in the art.
The slats may have projections at each end, analogous to the catches on the actuator bar. The projections are received in a channel at each side of the shade. The channel may be formed with the projections that also act to engage the catches of the actuator bar.
The invention is illustrated in the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is an exploded view of a shade according to the preæent invention;
Figures 2a and 2b are exploded details of drive mechanisms;
Figure 3 shows one slat that may be used according to the present invention;
Figure 4 illustrates an actuator bar;
Figure 5 illustrates a further drive mechanism;
Figures 5a through 5d illustrate possible positioning of the drive mechanism of Figure 5; and Figure 6 illustrates a modification of the shade structure.
Figure 1 shows a shade 10 having a closure mem~er able to be moved from one end of an opening to the other.
In Figure 1 the closure member comprises a plurality of slats 12 carried by support ladders comprising outer strings 14 and cross ætrings 16, extending between the outer strings 14, that carry the slats 12. Figure 1 ~how~ a wand 18 attached to a gear box 20 that drives a shaft 22. Rotation of the wand 18 rotates the shaft 22 that draw~ up one end of the ladder to tilt the slats 12.
This is conventional in the art.
.
- 4 - :
Figure 1 shows a drive roller 30 at one end of the shade 10, the upper end in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2a, the drive roller 30 comprises a cylinder 32 containing a coil spring 34 to supply the drive force for the shade 10. After the coil spring 34 is positioned around a shaft 3S the shaft 36 has an anchor slot 38 at one end to receive and anchor the spring 34. There is an end plate 40 at the end of shaft 36 that also anchors the ::
spring 34 at 42. Plate 40 can rotate relative to shaft 36 but is fixed relative to cylinder 32. A rectangular plate 43 projects outwardly from the shaft 36, through an end cap 44 to engage slot 46 in a housi.ng 48 used to mount the roller 30. At the other end the roller 32 simply has pin 58 that engages in an opening in housing 48.
A draw cord 54 can wind around the drive roller 30 and extends through each slat 12 to ~n actuator bar 56 at the opposite end of the opening from the drive roller 30.
A~ shown in Figure 1 the actuator bar 56 is carried by the cross-strings 16 and outer strings 14 BO that it can tilt with the slats 12. Cord 54 is attached to bar 56. --Figure 2b shows a drive roller 130 that is a variation of the drive roller 30. The drive roller 130 includes a cylinder 132 containing coil spring 134 to supply the drive force for the shade 10. The coil spring 134 is positioned around a shaft 136. The shaft 136 ~ :
receives a first housing 138 having a lug 140 and a second housing 142 having a lug 144. Lugs 140 and 144 'receive the spring 134. The lugs are of an external diameter that equals the internal diameter of the cylinder 132. The shaft 136 is provided with a flattened, widened portion 146 at one end so that the housing 144 cannot be moved off the shaft 136. Housing 142 is also mounted so that the shaft 136 cannot rotate - :
35 relative to the housing 142. ~ : ~
-- 2n~6,l73 Housing 138 can rotate relative to the shaft 136 but is fixed relative to the cylinder 132 by the provision of a spline 148 to engage as an internal key-way 149 in the cylinder 132. At its distal end the cylinder 132 includes a stub shaft 150.
Ears 152 extend from the shaft 136 and engage in an opening 46 in housing 48 which is common to the embodiments of Figures 2a and 2b. By this means the shaft 136 is prevented from rotating relative to the housing 48.
The actuator bar 56 is shown in more detail in Figure 4. The actuator bar 56 has catches 58 extending outwardly. As shown particularly in Figure 4 there is a pair of catches 58, one at each end of the actuator bar 56. These catches 58 extend outwardly to engage a track 60 at each side of the shade 10. In the embodiment of Figure 4 each catch 58 is mounted on a rod ~2 that i8 generally L-shaped. There is an opening 64 in the actuator bar 56 through which the rods 62 extend~ Small springs 66, extend between the catches 58 and an abutment 68 fixed within the actuator bar 56. Only one such structure is shown in Figure 4 but the structure is the ~ame at each end of the actuator bar 56. Springs 66 urge the catches 58 outwardly, to the position shown in -Figures 1 and 4. However the projecting portions of the L-shaped rod~ 62 ensure that a user can grip the rods 62, urging them towards each other to retract the catches 58.
Each track 60 has a plurality of projections 70 of generally triangular section with an inclined upper face and a horizontal lower face - see Figure 1. Similarly the catch 58 is shown with a flat upper face and an inclined lower face. The configuration of the projections 70 produces a ratchet effect. That is the catches 58 can slid over the projections 70 as the ~hade ~ a ~ 7 3 ., is pulled closed but, when the catches 58 are extended, they engage the underside of a projection 70. Extension of catches 58 takes place automatically by the action of the springs 66 when the rods 62 are released.
As shown in Figure 1 the projections 70 are mounted on an inner surface of track members 60 which is formed with a channel 72. The slats 12 may be formed with projections 74 at each end and these projections 74 are --received within the channel 72. By this means the shade is guided during movement and does not move around indiscriminately.
Figure 3 illustrates a slat 12 having end caps 76 each formed with a projection 74 and with top 76 and bottom edges 78 that are adapted to engage corresponding edges of neighbouring slats 12 when the shade is closed, that is the slats 12 are rotated through 90 from the poqition shown in Figure 1. This is a means of ensuring that the shades keep out the maximum amount of light and rain if the shade is mounted externally.
The present invention thus eliminates the necessity for external manual draw cords. In fact, the draw cord 54 shown extending through openings in the slats in Figure 1 may be housed at the end, possibly within the tracks 60 80 that they are completely out of sight. In this embodiment actuator bar 56 may be provided with attachment members 79 as shown in Figure 4 to receive the draw cords 54.
..
To use the shade of the present invention, first rotation of the slats 12 is conventional. That i6 rotation of wand 18 rotates the shaft 22 to pull in one or other side of the ladder 14, depending on the rotation of the wand lB.
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` --` 2 ~ 7 3 To extend the shade from the stored, upper position, the actuator bar 56 is pressed downwardly. It is not necessary to touch the rods 62 as the catch members 58 will slip automatically over the projections 70. As the actuator bar 56 is moved downwardly the draw cords 54 uncoil from the drive roller 30 which is simultaneously rotated.
Rotation of the drive roller 30 or 130 tightens the coils of the spring 34 or 134 as the spring is rotated with the housing 148 or the end plate 40 where the spring, being fixed at one end, and rotated at the other, coils.
At the appropriate point, the actuator bar 56 is stopped and the catch members 58 engage the under side of projections 70. This may be fully extended, that is the slats 12 occupy the full length of the opening, or may be at any point between.
Again the wand 18 can be rotated at this point to pivot the slats 12 to allow or prohibit the passage of light. To raise the shade the rods 62, where they protrude through the opening 64 are pressed together.
Catches 58 are retracted, against the urging of the springs 66. The actuator bar 56, and the shade with it, are raised as the spring 34 or 134 uncoils and rotates ~-the drive roller , coiling in the draw cord 54. A new location may be achieved simply by releasing the rods 62 so that the catches 58 are extended outwardly to engage -~the projections 70.
Thus the present invention shows a shade that completely eliminates external manual draw cords and yet provides mooth, safe operation of the shade.
Excessively vigorous movement of the shade is prevented because even if the rods 62 are inadvertently released '-:
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~ 2~9~7~
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catch members 58 will immediately spring outwardly to engage the projections 70 as the shade moves upwardly under the influence of the uncoiling of the spring 36 or 136.
The drive mechanism 81 of Figure 5 comprises a casing formed in two parts, 80 and 82. Part 82 has a shaft 84 that receives an inner end 86 of a coil spring 88. The coil spring 88 is mounted within a roller 90.
The spring 88 extends through an opening 92 in the roller 90 and is attached to a draw cord 54 which extends from the casing through opening 94.
Thiæ drive mechanism is operated by pulling on an actuator bar 56 to move it away from the mechanism 81. A -æimplel frictional brake member can engage the cord 54 to stop it at the appropriate place. If necessary the brake member can be positioned immediately adjacent the opening 94.
Figure 5 also illustrates one form of brake that may be appropriate. It should be emphasized that the brake illustrated i9 a mere example. Any simple means of engaging the draw cord 54 fixed in position will be ~-appropriate. The brake shown in Figure 5 comprises an abutment 96 and a brake member 98 pivotally mounted by the provision of stub axles 100. There i9 a cros~ bar 102. Member 98 has a curved bottom surface 104 adjacent abutment 96. The draw cord 54 passes between abutment 96 and the surface 104. The position shown in Figure 5 is a brake pos~ition. That is by pushing on the member 98 in the region of æurface 104 the lower surface 104 is moved about cross bar 102 to tend to close the gap between abutment member 96 and the surface 104. Draw cord 54 is gripped. It cannot move and therefore the shade cannot move.
7 ~' g However, when the upper end of the body 98 is pressed, that is above the axles 100, member 98 pivots about the axles 100 and the shaping of the bottom surface 104 is such that a gap opens between the body 98 and the abutment membPr 96. Draw cord 54 is thus released and the shade may be moved by pressing on the actuator bar 56 or the shade may be drawn in under the action of a spring 34, 134 or 88.
Various positions for the drive mechanism 81 of Figure 5 are shown in Figures 5a to 5d. Thus in Figure 5a the drive mechanism 81 is positioned at each end of a casing 48. The draw cords 54 are shown. In Figure 5b guide members 106 guide the draw cords 54 to two drive mechanisms 81, each at the right hand side of the Figure 5b. Figure 5c shows two separate drive mechanism 81 mounted in the center. The two mechanisms 81 can be replaced by a single drive mechanism with both cords 54 ~-attached to the spring 8~ and with the guides 106 repositioned accordingly to allow the use of just one drive mechanism.
~igure 5d shows the drive mechanism positioned at `
the bottom of the opening.
Figure Ç is included to show the use of a concertina or continuous blind 112 in place of the slats 12. The structure is otherwise as in Figure 1.
Although the forgoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claims.
` -` 20~ 73 For example the catches 58 that are illustrated may be replaced by engagement means that extend outwardly from the actuator bar 56 to make frictional contact with the track 60, for example they may be of rubber or plastic. The projections 70 may be replaced by simple openings in the track 60. The rods 62 need not be L-shaped. Their shape is immaterial. Slats 12 are shown with projections but the catches 58 can act as guides for the shade, making projections on the slats 12 10 unnecessary. ~ ;
Similarly the drive roller 30 or 130 is shown at the top in the drawings but may be located at the bottom of the opening, similar to the arrangement shown in Figure 5d. The small springs 66 that are used to urge the catches 58 may be replaced by, for example, resilient rubber pieces that have the same effect. That is a rubber spring may be used; a coil spring is not necessary.
, , .
The drive roller 30, including the coil springs 34 or 134 could be replaced by elongated coil springs extending down the inside of the opening and tending to pull the actuator bar upwardly. Rubber cords could also be used in place of such drive mechanisms positioned at the top and would provide simpler means of moving the actuator bar, and thus the slats 12 or the shade 112, upwardly.
A further variation is the use of thin coil springs or a rubber cord as a drive mechanism. That is in place of, for example, springs 34, 88 or 134 a narrow section coil spring or a rubber cord can extend down the side of the opening in the manner shown in Figure 5a where the draw cords 54 are shown. In these circumstances drive ;;
mechanism 81 is unnecessary. The necessary resilience is present in the springs or cords. Downward movement of . : . . . : .; .
2 ~ 9 ~i 1 r~ ~
the actuator bar stretches a spring or elastic cord until the desired position is reached. Catch members 58, or their equivalent, are then allowed to extend to prevent further movement. -~
Although tracks 60 are illustrated, they are not required in an embodiment where catches 58 are replaced by frictional members. Although such members could engage the tracks 60 and although tracks 60 do have the virtue of guiding movement of the shade, nevertheless the frictional member replacing catches 58 could make frictional contact with the sides of the opening. In the embodiment of Figures 5 and its operation as shown in Figures 5a to 5d, the tracks may not be necessary and catches would not be necessary as the drive mechanism iæ
stopped by the brake, not by frictional members nor by catches engaging in projections in the track.
.
Figure 1 shows a drive roller 30 at one end of the shade 10, the upper end in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2a, the drive roller 30 comprises a cylinder 32 containing a coil spring 34 to supply the drive force for the shade 10. After the coil spring 34 is positioned around a shaft 3S the shaft 36 has an anchor slot 38 at one end to receive and anchor the spring 34. There is an end plate 40 at the end of shaft 36 that also anchors the ::
spring 34 at 42. Plate 40 can rotate relative to shaft 36 but is fixed relative to cylinder 32. A rectangular plate 43 projects outwardly from the shaft 36, through an end cap 44 to engage slot 46 in a housi.ng 48 used to mount the roller 30. At the other end the roller 32 simply has pin 58 that engages in an opening in housing 48.
A draw cord 54 can wind around the drive roller 30 and extends through each slat 12 to ~n actuator bar 56 at the opposite end of the opening from the drive roller 30.
A~ shown in Figure 1 the actuator bar 56 is carried by the cross-strings 16 and outer strings 14 BO that it can tilt with the slats 12. Cord 54 is attached to bar 56. --Figure 2b shows a drive roller 130 that is a variation of the drive roller 30. The drive roller 130 includes a cylinder 132 containing coil spring 134 to supply the drive force for the shade 10. The coil spring 134 is positioned around a shaft 136. The shaft 136 ~ :
receives a first housing 138 having a lug 140 and a second housing 142 having a lug 144. Lugs 140 and 144 'receive the spring 134. The lugs are of an external diameter that equals the internal diameter of the cylinder 132. The shaft 136 is provided with a flattened, widened portion 146 at one end so that the housing 144 cannot be moved off the shaft 136. Housing 142 is also mounted so that the shaft 136 cannot rotate - :
35 relative to the housing 142. ~ : ~
-- 2n~6,l73 Housing 138 can rotate relative to the shaft 136 but is fixed relative to the cylinder 132 by the provision of a spline 148 to engage as an internal key-way 149 in the cylinder 132. At its distal end the cylinder 132 includes a stub shaft 150.
Ears 152 extend from the shaft 136 and engage in an opening 46 in housing 48 which is common to the embodiments of Figures 2a and 2b. By this means the shaft 136 is prevented from rotating relative to the housing 48.
The actuator bar 56 is shown in more detail in Figure 4. The actuator bar 56 has catches 58 extending outwardly. As shown particularly in Figure 4 there is a pair of catches 58, one at each end of the actuator bar 56. These catches 58 extend outwardly to engage a track 60 at each side of the shade 10. In the embodiment of Figure 4 each catch 58 is mounted on a rod ~2 that i8 generally L-shaped. There is an opening 64 in the actuator bar 56 through which the rods 62 extend~ Small springs 66, extend between the catches 58 and an abutment 68 fixed within the actuator bar 56. Only one such structure is shown in Figure 4 but the structure is the ~ame at each end of the actuator bar 56. Springs 66 urge the catches 58 outwardly, to the position shown in -Figures 1 and 4. However the projecting portions of the L-shaped rod~ 62 ensure that a user can grip the rods 62, urging them towards each other to retract the catches 58.
Each track 60 has a plurality of projections 70 of generally triangular section with an inclined upper face and a horizontal lower face - see Figure 1. Similarly the catch 58 is shown with a flat upper face and an inclined lower face. The configuration of the projections 70 produces a ratchet effect. That is the catches 58 can slid over the projections 70 as the ~hade ~ a ~ 7 3 ., is pulled closed but, when the catches 58 are extended, they engage the underside of a projection 70. Extension of catches 58 takes place automatically by the action of the springs 66 when the rods 62 are released.
As shown in Figure 1 the projections 70 are mounted on an inner surface of track members 60 which is formed with a channel 72. The slats 12 may be formed with projections 74 at each end and these projections 74 are --received within the channel 72. By this means the shade is guided during movement and does not move around indiscriminately.
Figure 3 illustrates a slat 12 having end caps 76 each formed with a projection 74 and with top 76 and bottom edges 78 that are adapted to engage corresponding edges of neighbouring slats 12 when the shade is closed, that is the slats 12 are rotated through 90 from the poqition shown in Figure 1. This is a means of ensuring that the shades keep out the maximum amount of light and rain if the shade is mounted externally.
The present invention thus eliminates the necessity for external manual draw cords. In fact, the draw cord 54 shown extending through openings in the slats in Figure 1 may be housed at the end, possibly within the tracks 60 80 that they are completely out of sight. In this embodiment actuator bar 56 may be provided with attachment members 79 as shown in Figure 4 to receive the draw cords 54.
..
To use the shade of the present invention, first rotation of the slats 12 is conventional. That i6 rotation of wand 18 rotates the shaft 22 to pull in one or other side of the ladder 14, depending on the rotation of the wand lB.
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` --` 2 ~ 7 3 To extend the shade from the stored, upper position, the actuator bar 56 is pressed downwardly. It is not necessary to touch the rods 62 as the catch members 58 will slip automatically over the projections 70. As the actuator bar 56 is moved downwardly the draw cords 54 uncoil from the drive roller 30 which is simultaneously rotated.
Rotation of the drive roller 30 or 130 tightens the coils of the spring 34 or 134 as the spring is rotated with the housing 148 or the end plate 40 where the spring, being fixed at one end, and rotated at the other, coils.
At the appropriate point, the actuator bar 56 is stopped and the catch members 58 engage the under side of projections 70. This may be fully extended, that is the slats 12 occupy the full length of the opening, or may be at any point between.
Again the wand 18 can be rotated at this point to pivot the slats 12 to allow or prohibit the passage of light. To raise the shade the rods 62, where they protrude through the opening 64 are pressed together.
Catches 58 are retracted, against the urging of the springs 66. The actuator bar 56, and the shade with it, are raised as the spring 34 or 134 uncoils and rotates ~-the drive roller , coiling in the draw cord 54. A new location may be achieved simply by releasing the rods 62 so that the catches 58 are extended outwardly to engage -~the projections 70.
Thus the present invention shows a shade that completely eliminates external manual draw cords and yet provides mooth, safe operation of the shade.
Excessively vigorous movement of the shade is prevented because even if the rods 62 are inadvertently released '-:
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~ 2~9~7~
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catch members 58 will immediately spring outwardly to engage the projections 70 as the shade moves upwardly under the influence of the uncoiling of the spring 36 or 136.
The drive mechanism 81 of Figure 5 comprises a casing formed in two parts, 80 and 82. Part 82 has a shaft 84 that receives an inner end 86 of a coil spring 88. The coil spring 88 is mounted within a roller 90.
The spring 88 extends through an opening 92 in the roller 90 and is attached to a draw cord 54 which extends from the casing through opening 94.
Thiæ drive mechanism is operated by pulling on an actuator bar 56 to move it away from the mechanism 81. A -æimplel frictional brake member can engage the cord 54 to stop it at the appropriate place. If necessary the brake member can be positioned immediately adjacent the opening 94.
Figure 5 also illustrates one form of brake that may be appropriate. It should be emphasized that the brake illustrated i9 a mere example. Any simple means of engaging the draw cord 54 fixed in position will be ~-appropriate. The brake shown in Figure 5 comprises an abutment 96 and a brake member 98 pivotally mounted by the provision of stub axles 100. There i9 a cros~ bar 102. Member 98 has a curved bottom surface 104 adjacent abutment 96. The draw cord 54 passes between abutment 96 and the surface 104. The position shown in Figure 5 is a brake pos~ition. That is by pushing on the member 98 in the region of æurface 104 the lower surface 104 is moved about cross bar 102 to tend to close the gap between abutment member 96 and the surface 104. Draw cord 54 is gripped. It cannot move and therefore the shade cannot move.
7 ~' g However, when the upper end of the body 98 is pressed, that is above the axles 100, member 98 pivots about the axles 100 and the shaping of the bottom surface 104 is such that a gap opens between the body 98 and the abutment membPr 96. Draw cord 54 is thus released and the shade may be moved by pressing on the actuator bar 56 or the shade may be drawn in under the action of a spring 34, 134 or 88.
Various positions for the drive mechanism 81 of Figure 5 are shown in Figures 5a to 5d. Thus in Figure 5a the drive mechanism 81 is positioned at each end of a casing 48. The draw cords 54 are shown. In Figure 5b guide members 106 guide the draw cords 54 to two drive mechanisms 81, each at the right hand side of the Figure 5b. Figure 5c shows two separate drive mechanism 81 mounted in the center. The two mechanisms 81 can be replaced by a single drive mechanism with both cords 54 ~-attached to the spring 8~ and with the guides 106 repositioned accordingly to allow the use of just one drive mechanism.
~igure 5d shows the drive mechanism positioned at `
the bottom of the opening.
Figure Ç is included to show the use of a concertina or continuous blind 112 in place of the slats 12. The structure is otherwise as in Figure 1.
Although the forgoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claims.
` -` 20~ 73 For example the catches 58 that are illustrated may be replaced by engagement means that extend outwardly from the actuator bar 56 to make frictional contact with the track 60, for example they may be of rubber or plastic. The projections 70 may be replaced by simple openings in the track 60. The rods 62 need not be L-shaped. Their shape is immaterial. Slats 12 are shown with projections but the catches 58 can act as guides for the shade, making projections on the slats 12 10 unnecessary. ~ ;
Similarly the drive roller 30 or 130 is shown at the top in the drawings but may be located at the bottom of the opening, similar to the arrangement shown in Figure 5d. The small springs 66 that are used to urge the catches 58 may be replaced by, for example, resilient rubber pieces that have the same effect. That is a rubber spring may be used; a coil spring is not necessary.
, , .
The drive roller 30, including the coil springs 34 or 134 could be replaced by elongated coil springs extending down the inside of the opening and tending to pull the actuator bar upwardly. Rubber cords could also be used in place of such drive mechanisms positioned at the top and would provide simpler means of moving the actuator bar, and thus the slats 12 or the shade 112, upwardly.
A further variation is the use of thin coil springs or a rubber cord as a drive mechanism. That is in place of, for example, springs 34, 88 or 134 a narrow section coil spring or a rubber cord can extend down the side of the opening in the manner shown in Figure 5a where the draw cords 54 are shown. In these circumstances drive ;;
mechanism 81 is unnecessary. The necessary resilience is present in the springs or cords. Downward movement of . : . . . : .; .
2 ~ 9 ~i 1 r~ ~
the actuator bar stretches a spring or elastic cord until the desired position is reached. Catch members 58, or their equivalent, are then allowed to extend to prevent further movement. -~
Although tracks 60 are illustrated, they are not required in an embodiment where catches 58 are replaced by frictional members. Although such members could engage the tracks 60 and although tracks 60 do have the virtue of guiding movement of the shade, nevertheless the frictional member replacing catches 58 could make frictional contact with the sides of the opening. In the embodiment of Figures 5 and its operation as shown in Figures 5a to 5d, the tracks may not be necessary and catches would not be necessary as the drive mechanism iæ
stopped by the brake, not by frictional members nor by catches engaging in projections in the track.
.
Claims (19)
1. A shade having a closure member able to be moved from one end of an opening to the other end between a stored and an extended position for the shade, the shade comprising:
means to drive the roller at one end of the shade;
at least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade;
an actuator bar attached to the draw cord;
engagement means to act to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening; and means to allow the overcoming of said engagement means to allow movement of the shade.
means to drive the roller at one end of the shade;
at least one draw cord extending from the roller to a distal end of the shade;
an actuator bar attached to the draw cord;
engagement means to act to stop the shade at a predetermined position in the opening; and means to allow the overcoming of said engagement means to allow movement of the shade.
2. A shade as claimed in claim 1 including a track to be received at at least one side of the opening to be engaged by said engagement means to fix the position of the closure member in the opening.
3. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the closure member is a plurality of slats carried by a support ladder, said slats being tiltable.
4. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the closure member is a continuous sheet, having a plurality of fold lines to allow the sheet to concertina or gather.
5. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the roller includes a coil spring as a means to drive the roller.
6. A shade as claimed in claim 5 in which the spring is mounted in the roller on a shaft.
7. A shade as claimed in claim 5 in which the spring is received within a casing;
the spring being a leaf spring having one end anchored within the casing and the other attached to said at least one draw cord.
the spring being a leaf spring having one end anchored within the casing and the other attached to said at least one draw cord.
8. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the means to drive the roller comprises elongated coil springs extending downwardly from the roller to the actuator bar, the means to drive the roller being provided by the tendency of the extended spring to compress and thus retract the shade.
9. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the means to drive the roller comprises an elastic cord, the tendency of the elastic cord to retract once extended providing driving power for the roller.
10. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the engagement means comprise a pair of catches one at each end of the actuator bar;
a track at each side of the shade to be engaged by a catch; and resilient means urging said engagement means from said actuator bar;
a track at each side of the shade to be engaged by a catch; and resilient means urging said engagement means from said actuator bar;
11. A shade as claimed in claim 10 which each catch is mounted on a rod that is generally L-shaped;
an opening in the actuator bar, the rods extending through said opening in the actuator bar so that the rods can be gripped and moved to retract the catches.
an opening in the actuator bar, the rods extending through said opening in the actuator bar so that the rods can be gripped and moved to retract the catches.
12. A shade as claimed in claim 10 in which the track comprises a plurality of projections.
13. A shade as claimed in claim 12 in which the track has the configuration of a ratchet, whereby the catch can slide over the projections as the shade is closed but, when extended, engages the underside of the projections.
14. A shade as claimed in claim 4 in which each slat has a projection on each end;
a guide to receive the projections at each side of the shade.
a guide to receive the projections at each side of the shade.
15. A shade as claimed in claim 11 in which the track is formed as a channel to be engaged by the engagement means, whereby the shade is guided in its movement along the opening.
16. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the roller is located at the bottom of the opening.
17. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the roller is located at the top of the opening.
18. A shade as claimed in claim 12 in which the slats have top and bottom edges adapted to engage neighbouring slats.
19. A shade as claimed in claim 1 in which the rollers are located at the sides of the opening.
Priority Applications (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002096473A CA2096473A1 (en) | 1993-05-18 | 1993-05-18 | Positive shade operating system |
| AU59981/94A AU5998194A (en) | 1993-02-26 | 1994-02-11 | Shade operating system |
| PCT/CA1994/000074 WO1994019573A1 (en) | 1993-02-26 | 1994-02-11 | Shade operating system |
| IL10938094A IL109380A0 (en) | 1993-05-18 | 1994-04-21 | Shade operating system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002096473A CA2096473A1 (en) | 1993-05-18 | 1993-05-18 | Positive shade operating system |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2096473A1 true CA2096473A1 (en) | 1994-11-19 |
Family
ID=4151670
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002096473A Abandoned CA2096473A1 (en) | 1993-02-26 | 1993-05-18 | Positive shade operating system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2096473A1 (en) |
| IL (1) | IL109380A0 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1580396A1 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2005-09-28 | Grit Roetgering | profiled bar for a raising mechanism for a window or door covering |
| WO2005093198A3 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2006-03-09 | Grit Roetgering | Profiled bar with a raising mechanism for a window or door covering |
-
1993
- 1993-05-18 CA CA002096473A patent/CA2096473A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
1994
- 1994-04-21 IL IL10938094A patent/IL109380A0/en unknown
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP1580396A1 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2005-09-28 | Grit Roetgering | profiled bar for a raising mechanism for a window or door covering |
| WO2005095749A1 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2005-10-13 | Grit Roetgering | Profiled bar for a raising mechanism for a window or door covering |
| WO2005093198A3 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2006-03-09 | Grit Roetgering | Profiled bar with a raising mechanism for a window or door covering |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| IL109380A0 (en) | 1994-07-31 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |