CA2230839C - Mini-blind cut-down machine - Google Patents
Mini-blind cut-down machine Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2230839C CA2230839C CA 2230839 CA2230839A CA2230839C CA 2230839 C CA2230839 C CA 2230839C CA 2230839 CA2230839 CA 2230839 CA 2230839 A CA2230839 A CA 2230839A CA 2230839 C CA2230839 C CA 2230839C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- blind
- carriage
- mandrel
- ruler
- base
- 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
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 57
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 21
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 230000002401 inhibitory effect Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920004142 LEXAN™ Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004418 Lexan Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920005372 Plexiglas® Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004926 polymethyl methacrylate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 description 2
- QQKKFVXSQXUHPI-NBVRZTHBSA-N Acidissiminol epoxide Chemical compound O1C(C)(C)C1CC(O)C(/C)=C/COC(C=C1)=CC=C1CCNC(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1 QQKKFVXSQXUHPI-NBVRZTHBSA-N 0.000 description 1
- FCHAMFUEENBIDH-UHFFFAOYSA-N Severin Natural products CC1CCC2C(C)C3CCC4(O)C(CC5C4CC(O)C6CC(CCC56C)OC(=O)C)C3CN2C1 FCHAMFUEENBIDH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005266 casting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003749 cleanliness Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005530 etching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003141 lower extremity Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B23—MACHINE TOOLS; METAL-WORKING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B23D—PLANING; SLOTTING; SHEARING; BROACHING; SAWING; FILING; SCRAPING; LIKE OPERATIONS FOR WORKING METAL BY REMOVING MATERIAL, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B23D23/00—Machines or devices for shearing or cutting profiled stock
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
- B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
- B26D3/00—Cutting work characterised by the nature of the cut made; Apparatus therefor
- B26D3/16—Cutting rods or tubes transversely
- B26D3/167—Cutting tubes having a non-circular cross-section
-
- 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
- E06B9/266—Devices or accessories for making or mounting lamellar blinds or parts thereof
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/39—Venetian blind assembling
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T83/00—Cutting
- Y10T83/748—With work immobilizer
- Y10T83/7487—Means to clamp work
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T83/00—Cutting
- Y10T83/869—Means to drive or to guide tool
- Y10T83/8821—With simple rectilinear reciprocating motion only
- Y10T83/8841—Tool driver movable relative to tool support
- Y10T83/8844—Gear actuated tool support
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Forests & Forestry (AREA)
- Blinds (AREA)
- Perforating, Stamping-Out Or Severing By Means Other Than Cutting (AREA)
Abstract
A cutting apparatus for blinds of the type having a head rail, a bottom rail, and a plurality of slats includes a frame defined by a base and a pair of opposed end walls with a blind receiving and severing area near one of the end walls. A
drive screw supported by the end walls extends through a carriage slidable on the base for linear movement between the end walls, whereby the carriage can be driven along the length of the base by rotation of the drive screw. A knife on the carriage severs an end of a blind as the carriage advances through the blind receiving and severing area. A mandrel is removably mounted on an end wall in the blind receiving and severing area for receiving and supporting a head rail of the blind for inhibiting movement and /or distortion of the blind during cutting. A clamping block releasably clamps a blind in the frame.
drive screw supported by the end walls extends through a carriage slidable on the base for linear movement between the end walls, whereby the carriage can be driven along the length of the base by rotation of the drive screw. A knife on the carriage severs an end of a blind as the carriage advances through the blind receiving and severing area. A mandrel is removably mounted on an end wall in the blind receiving and severing area for receiving and supporting a head rail of the blind for inhibiting movement and /or distortion of the blind during cutting. A clamping block releasably clamps a blind in the frame.
Description
TITLE
Mini-blind Cut-Down Machine SUMMARY' OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a mini-blind cut-down device designed to reduce the width of a "'Venetian"-type blind by cutting or severing material from the end of the blind.
"Vc;netian" type mini blinds are commonly used as a low cost solution for covering windows. In order to reduce; manufacturing costs, producers of such blinds often manufacture large quantities of mini blinds in a limited number of sizes.
These standard blind sizes usually fit within the standard windows being employed in modern homes and buildings. However, older homes and buildings frequently do not have standard sized windows, arid consequently the standard size of blinds produced by manufacturers will not fit. The alternative for older homes and buildings therefore, has been to use custom blinds, which are substantially more expensive than in the standard blind sizes.
In an effort to reduce the cost of the custom blinds, some suppliers have attempted to provide custom-sized blinds by severing the ends off standard sized blinds which are manufactured to be larger than the window into which the blind is to be installed. This has given rise to the need for device capable of severing of the end of a mini blind while providing a clean high quality cut end.
Nmmerous solutions have been proposed for this problem, including the devices disclosed in United States patent No. 5,339,716 to Sands et. al, and Canadian patent application No. 2,174,800 by Marocco (published in April 1997). While both of these devices are capable of also severing t:he end of a blind, both suffer from the disadvantage that the head rail and the slats and bare rail are severed in separate cutting operations, which tends to increase the size and complexity of the cutting device. In addition, the mechanical .arrangements for effecting the cutting operations tend to be complex, which increases the: cost of the device and c;~n reduce reliability. Finally the cutting operation of both device;. tends to be laborious, thereby reducing the productivity of the device, that is, the rate at which blinds can be processed using the device.
An object of the present invention is to provide a mini blind cut down device which overcomes the above noted deficiencies.
Another object of the invention is to provide a mini blind cut down device capable of producing a high quality cut end oi-' a mini blind, while being mechanically simple, reliable, and providing the user with enhanced safety.
Accordingly, an aspect of the present invention provides a mini-blind cut down device for reducing the width of a mini-blind by severing the ends of the mini-blind. The mini-blind cut-down device is operative with mini-blinds of the type having a head rail, a bottom rail, and a plurality of slats. The mini-blind cut down device includes a base including a pair of opposed end walls and a mini-blind receiving and severing area disposed proximal one of the end walls. A drive screw is operatively supported by the end walls and extending therebetween. A earner is slidably disposed on the base for substantially linear movement between the end walls, the carrier being in threaded engagement with the drive screw, whereby the earner can be driven along the length of the base by rotation of the drive screw. A knife is removably affixed to the carrier and capable of severing ~~n end of a mini-blind as the earner is advanced through the blind receiving and severin~; area of the base. A back-up die is removably affixed to an end wall and extends into the blind receiving and severing area of the base, the back-up die being capable of receiving and supporting a. head rail of the mini-blind, and serving to inhibit movement a.nd/or distortion of the mini-blind during cutting. A clamping block is capable of releasable clamping a mini-blind within the mini-blind receiving and severing area of the base.
In ;in embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device further includes an upper plate fixedly mounted between upper portions of the end walls. The upper plate includes an elongate, longitudinal slot which serves as a linear guide for the carrier.
In ;gin embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device includes an impact resistant, transparent cover plate fixedly mounted between upper portions of i:he end walls, adjacent to and in abutting contact with the upper plate. The cover plate ;serves to protect a user from upwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation.
Mini-blind Cut-Down Machine SUMMARY' OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a mini-blind cut-down device designed to reduce the width of a "'Venetian"-type blind by cutting or severing material from the end of the blind.
"Vc;netian" type mini blinds are commonly used as a low cost solution for covering windows. In order to reduce; manufacturing costs, producers of such blinds often manufacture large quantities of mini blinds in a limited number of sizes.
These standard blind sizes usually fit within the standard windows being employed in modern homes and buildings. However, older homes and buildings frequently do not have standard sized windows, arid consequently the standard size of blinds produced by manufacturers will not fit. The alternative for older homes and buildings therefore, has been to use custom blinds, which are substantially more expensive than in the standard blind sizes.
In an effort to reduce the cost of the custom blinds, some suppliers have attempted to provide custom-sized blinds by severing the ends off standard sized blinds which are manufactured to be larger than the window into which the blind is to be installed. This has given rise to the need for device capable of severing of the end of a mini blind while providing a clean high quality cut end.
Nmmerous solutions have been proposed for this problem, including the devices disclosed in United States patent No. 5,339,716 to Sands et. al, and Canadian patent application No. 2,174,800 by Marocco (published in April 1997). While both of these devices are capable of also severing t:he end of a blind, both suffer from the disadvantage that the head rail and the slats and bare rail are severed in separate cutting operations, which tends to increase the size and complexity of the cutting device. In addition, the mechanical .arrangements for effecting the cutting operations tend to be complex, which increases the: cost of the device and c;~n reduce reliability. Finally the cutting operation of both device;. tends to be laborious, thereby reducing the productivity of the device, that is, the rate at which blinds can be processed using the device.
An object of the present invention is to provide a mini blind cut down device which overcomes the above noted deficiencies.
Another object of the invention is to provide a mini blind cut down device capable of producing a high quality cut end oi-' a mini blind, while being mechanically simple, reliable, and providing the user with enhanced safety.
Accordingly, an aspect of the present invention provides a mini-blind cut down device for reducing the width of a mini-blind by severing the ends of the mini-blind. The mini-blind cut-down device is operative with mini-blinds of the type having a head rail, a bottom rail, and a plurality of slats. The mini-blind cut down device includes a base including a pair of opposed end walls and a mini-blind receiving and severing area disposed proximal one of the end walls. A drive screw is operatively supported by the end walls and extending therebetween. A earner is slidably disposed on the base for substantially linear movement between the end walls, the carrier being in threaded engagement with the drive screw, whereby the earner can be driven along the length of the base by rotation of the drive screw. A knife is removably affixed to the carrier and capable of severing ~~n end of a mini-blind as the earner is advanced through the blind receiving and severin~; area of the base. A back-up die is removably affixed to an end wall and extends into the blind receiving and severing area of the base, the back-up die being capable of receiving and supporting a. head rail of the mini-blind, and serving to inhibit movement a.nd/or distortion of the mini-blind during cutting. A clamping block is capable of releasable clamping a mini-blind within the mini-blind receiving and severing area of the base.
In ;in embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device further includes an upper plate fixedly mounted between upper portions of the end walls. The upper plate includes an elongate, longitudinal slot which serves as a linear guide for the carrier.
In ;gin embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device includes an impact resistant, transparent cover plate fixedly mounted between upper portions of i:he end walls, adjacent to and in abutting contact with the upper plate. The cover plate ;serves to protect a user from upwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation.
Preferably, the cut-down device further includes an impact resistant, transparent front plate fixedly mounted between the end walls, and extending downwardly from the cover plate.
The front plate serves to protect a user from forwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation. By means of the cover plate and the front plate, the user is able to continuously monitor a severing operation, while being protected from flying debris. Thus a high quality cut can be ensured, and. the safety of the operator is enhanced.
In am embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device includes a g~~uge assembly for selectively controlling an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind. The gauge assembly generally comprises a gauge holder, a ruler slidably mounted on the gauge holder, and a stopper bar depending from an end of the ruler. Preferably, the ruler includes indices indicative of an amount of material to be removed from a blind. More preferably, the indices are marked as a half scale, such that the length indicated on the ruler corresponds to the total amount by which a blind will be 1 S shortened when material has been removed from both ends of the blind.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the gauge holder is operatively mounted on the earner above the upper plate, and includes a locking device for releasably locking the rwler in a selected position. Conveniently, the locking device can comprise a pressure plate movably disposed within a bore in the gauge holder, and a pressure-screw operatively :mounted in the gauge holder for selectively pressing the pressure plate against the ruler. Friction between the ruler and the pressure plate serves to prevent unintentional movement of the ruler.
Preferably, the gauge holder includes an integrally formed pointer oriented proximal thE; indices of the ruler, whereby a position of the stopper bar can be accurately set by a user.
Conveniently, the stopper b~~r includes a elongate abutment surface oriented substantiall~~ parallel to the path of movement of the carrier, and positioned within the blind receiving and severing area of the base. The abutment surface serves to limit an amount of material to be removed from and end of a blind. Thus in use, the position of the abutment surface of the stopper bar can be set by adjusting the ruler, with reference to the ruler indices and the pointer of the gauge holder. The position of the abutment surface of the stopper bar can then be locked by use of the locking device. Subsequently, a blind can be inserted into the blind receiving anal severing area of the base, until the head rail, slats, and base rail contact the abutment surface of the stopper bar, thereby ensuring that material will be remewed from the ends of all of the components of the blind.
Furthermore, a S substantially equal amount of material can be reliably removed from the ends of a plurality of blinds, without stopping to measure prior to each severing operation. This serves to allow increased production and reliability.
In ml embodiment of the invention, the knife includes a cutting edge for severing a blind within the cutting area of the base. Preferably, the cutting edge has an arcuate contour, such that the cutting edge first contacts opposite longitudinal edges of a blind during Beveling of the blind. This ha;~ the effect of reducing the forces required for cutting, and reduces the tendency of the blind components to twist or deform during the severing operation.
Conveniently, the knife includes a first face extending rearwardly from the cutting 1 S edge and substantially parallel to a direction of movement of the knife during a cutting operation. Optionally, the first face can have an arcuate contour for providing a curved end of a severed blind, which is visually more pleasing.
Preferably, the back-up die will include at lease one surface having an arcuate contour corresponding to that of the first face of the knife. Thus the cutting edge of the knife and the back-up die will cooperate to provide an efficient shearing of a blind as the knife is adv~~nced through the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device.
Conveniently, the knife inchzdes a second face extending rearwardly from the cutting edge. and at an angle with respect to the first face to define a wedge shape of at least a forward portion of the knife. Preferably, the knife further includes a step relief proximal a rearward limit of the second face. This step relief operatively engages an edge of the carrier to stabilize the knife, and thereby prevent undesired movement of the knife during repeated severing operations.
The drive screw can be rotated by a crank handle, or by a power drive system, such as an electric motor.
In ;~ preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping block cooperates with the back-up die to secure the head rail, slats and bottom rail of a blind as a single body within the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device. The clamping block can also include a pin engageable with a groove of the base to limit a forward extent of movement of the clamping block.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least in the vicinity of the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device, the base is provided with large radius fillets and chamfered edges to promote clearing of debris from the cut-down device. This has the effect of making the device effectively self cleaning, as debris from previous severing operations is cleared from the blind receiving and severing area by movement of the carrier. Consequently, numerous blind ends can be severed in succession without clogging or,jamming the device with debris.
Thc; device of the present invention is particularly suitable for severing the ends of mini-blinds constructed of PVC or similar thermoplastic material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mini-blind cut-down device in accordance with an embodirrient of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment of Figure 1, with a blind shown clamped in position in the blind receiving and severing region of the device, in preparation for severing and end of the blind;
Figure 3 is a cross section view of the embodiment of Figure 1 taken through line A-A in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a cross section view of the embodiment of Figure 1 taken through line B-B in Figure 2;
Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view of the cutter assembly of the embodiment of Figure l;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a knife blade usable in the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figures 7a and 7b respectively show the rear and top views of the knife blade of Figure 6;
Figure 7c is a cross-section view of the knife blade of Figure 6, taken along line C-C of Figure 7a;
Figure 8 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a gauge-holder usable in the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the device of the present invention mounted for use in a cutter table; and.
Figures l0a and l Ob show partial cross-section view showing alternative embodiments of a debris collector usable with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Re:fernng to Figures 1 and 2, a mini-blind cut down device 1 generally comprises a base 2, a dlrive screw 3, a cutter assembly 4, and a clamping assembly 5.
Th~~ base 2 generally comprises an elongate supporting and guiding platform 6, 1 S and front and rear end walls 7, 8 mounted at opposite ends of the supporting and guiding platform 6. The front end wall 7, and the supporting and guiding platform 6 cooperate to define a blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. The base 2 can be conveniently fabricated of any suitable material having sufficient strength, rigidity and toughness, ~;uch as, for example, steel, or aluminum.
As is best shown in Figures 1 and 2, the blind receiving and severing region 9 includes a head rail guide surface 10 for supporting and guiding a blind head rail 11 into the blind receiving and severing region 9, and for supporting the head rail 11 during the cutting operation. A back-stop surface 12 of the front end wall 7 extends vertically from the head rail guide surface 10, and serves as a back-stop to further support the head rail 11 during the cutting operation. A clamping guide surface 13 extends rearwardly from the head rail guide surface 10 through to the rear end wall 8. Conveniently, the clamping guide surface 13 is at a different elevation from the head rail guide surface 10, so as to accommodate the offset which typically exists between the dimensions of the blind slats and bottom rail 14 and the head rail 11 of a blind (see Figure 2).
At least in the vicinity of the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the cut-down device 1, the base 2 is provided with large radius fillets 15 and chamfered edges 16 (see Figures 3 and 4) to promote clearing of debris from the cut-down device 1. This has the effect of making the device 1 effectively self cleaning, as debris from previous severing operations i;~ cleared from the blind receiving and severing region 9 by movement of the cutter assembly 4. As a result, numerous blind ends can be severed in succession without clogging or,jamming the device 1 with debris.
The front end wall 7 includes at least two holes 17 (three are shown in the illustrated embodiment) to accommodate suitable bolts, screws or pins (not shown) to removably secure a mandrel 18 to the back-stop surface 12 within the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. In Figures 2 and 3, the mandrel 18 is illustrated as being generally rectangular in cross-section. However, in practice, several mandrels having respective different cross-sections can be provided, so that an appropriate mandrel can be selected depending on the cross-sectional shape of the head rail 11 of a blind being cut.
Thus in use, a mandrel 18 can be selected to fit snugly within the head rail of a blind, and then secured to the back-stop surface 12. The blind can then be inserted into the blind receiving anal severing region 9, with the head rail 11 slid over the mandrel 18 (as shown in Figure 2). With this arrangement, the head rail 11 can be held securely in position, and movement a.nd distortion of the head rail 11 is minimized during the cutting operation, so that a high duality cut end of the blind can be achieved.
An upper plate 19 extends between the end walls 7, 8 of the base, and is securely fastened thereto by suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The upper plate 19 includes an elongate groove 20 having opposed side surfaces 21, 22 which serve as a linear guide for the cutter assembly 4.
As best seen in Figures 1, 3 and 4, an impact resistant, transparent cover plate 23 is mounted between upper portions of the end walls 7, 8, adjacent to and in abutting contact with the upper plate 19, by means of suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The cover plate 23 serves to protect a user from upwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the cutting operation.
Similarly, an impact resistant, transparent front plate 24 can also be mounted between the end walls 7, 8, and extending downwardly from the cover plate 23.
Convenientlly, the front plate 24 can be designed to be mounted within grooves 25, 26 provided in the end walls 7, 8 of the base 2, as shown in Figure 1. With this arrangement, the front plate 24 is retained in position by the grooves 25, 26 and the cover plate 23, thereby providing a secure fastening of the front plate 24 while avoiding the additional cost and comple:Kity associated with the use of additional screws or bolts to secure the front plate 24. The front plate 24 serves to protect a user from forwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation. 'Chus by means of the cover plate 23 and the front plate 24, the user is able to continuously monitor a cutting operation, while being protected from flying debris.
Consequently, a high quality cut can be ensured, and the safety of the operator is enhanced.
The cover plate 23 and front plate 24 can be constructed of any suitable material providing transparenc~~ and impact resistance, such as, for example, Lexan (trade-mark) or Plexiglas (trade-mark;).
The drive screw 3 extends between the front and rear end walls 7, 8 of the base 2, and is rotationally supported by suitable bearings 27, 28 mounted in the end walls 7, 8 respectively. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the front end wall bearing 27 is designed to absorb thru~a loads. Accordingly, cutting forces generated during a severing operation imposes a tensile load on the drive screw 3 between the cutter assembly 4 and the front end wall bearing 27. This arrangement minimizes the length of the stress-path between the cutter asserr~bly 4 and the back-stop surface 12 and mandrel 18, thereby minimizing the potential for distortion of the drive-screw 3 and base 2 (and consequent reduction in quality of the cut end of a blind), during the cutting operation. Conveniently, the drive screw 3 includes a shaft extension 29 which extends through the rear end wall bearing 28. The drive screw 3 can be rotated by a hand crank 30 comprising a crank arm 31 coupled to the free end of the shaft extension 29 by conventional means, such as a bolt, shear pin, clevis pin , key and groove or the like (not shown); and a handle 32 mounted on a free end of the crank arm 31. Conveniently, the handle 32 can be mounted in the crank arm 31 in such a manner that it can be slid through the crank arm 31 in a longitudinal direction of the handle 32 (as shown by the dashed line in Figure 2). Alternatively, the drive screw 3 can be driven by an electric motor (not shown) coupled to the free end of the shaft extension 29 either directly or via a gear or belt drive system.
The cutter assembly 4 generally comprises a carrier unit 33, a knife 34 affixed to the earner 33, and a gauge assembly 35 including a ruler 36 and a stopper bar 37 mounted on top of the earner unit 33. The earner unit 33 is mounted on the base 2 for linear movement between the end walls 7, 8, and generally comprises a drive block 38 including a guide member 39, a knife mount 40 depending downwardly from the drive block 38, and slider block 41 mounted on the lower extremity of the knife mount 40. The drive block 38 is generally composed as a rectangular body having the guide member 39 extending from an upper surface thereof, and a threaded through-hole 42. Side surfaces 39a, 39b of the guide block 39 slidingly engage the cooperating interior surfaces 21, 22 of the elongate groove 20 of the upper plate 19 to prevent rotational movement of the cutter assembly 4 about the axis of the drive screw 3 as the drive screw 3 is rotated. The threaded through hole 42 is d~aigned to operatively engage the drive screw 3 so that the drive block 38 (and thus the cutter assembly 4 as a whole) can be forcibly driven along the length of the base 2 by rotation of the drive screw 3. The knife mount 40 is designed to provide a secure 1 S support for ~~ knife 34, and is positioned so that the cutting edge of the knife 34 will be held approximately centered under the drive screw 3 so as to minimize any twisting of the cutter assembly 4 during a cutting operation. Conveniently, the knife mount 40 includes at least one through hole 43 (see figure 4) allowing passage of a respective screw or bolt (not shown) for securing the knife 34 to the knife mount 40. Finally, the slider block 41 is provided on the free end of the knife mount 40, and includes a slider groove 44 designed to slidably engage a corresponding rail 45 mounted on the base 2, so that lateral deflections of the carrier unit 33 during cutting operations can be minimized. The earner unit 33 can be manufactured using any suitable material, such as steel or aluminum.
Conveniently, the carrier unit :33 is manufactured as a single "monolithic" body by casting and/or machining, thereby allowing the carrier unit 33 to be manufactured for low cost, while ensuring maximum srrength and rigidity.
Th~~ knife 34 is removably affixed to the knife mount 40 of the carrier unit 33 and designed to sever an end of a mini-blind as the cutter assembly 4 is advanced through the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. As shown in Figures 6-7c, the knife 34 includes a cutting edge 46, a front surface 47, a wedge surface 48, a rear surface 49 and one or more mounting holes 50 (two are provided in the illustrated embodiment) which correspond with the through-holes 43 of the knife mount 40. The cutting edge 46 is designed for severing a blind as the knife 34 is advanced through the blind receiving and severing region 9. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the cutting edge 46 preferably has an arcuate contour, such that the cutting edge 46 first contacts opposite longitudinal edges of a blind during severing of the blind. This has the effect of reducing the forces required for cutting, and reduces the tendency of the blind components to twist or deform during the severing operation. The front surface 47 of the knife 34 extends rearwardly from the cutaing edge 46 and substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the knife 34 during a cutting operation. If desired, the front surface 47 can be planar, or have an arcuate contour as shown in the drawings. In general, an arcuate contour of the front surface 47 is found to be preferable, because it yields a curved end of a severed blind, which is visually more pleasing.
The wedge surface 48 extends rearwardly from the cutting edge 46 and at an angle with respect to the front surface 47 to define a wedge shape of at least a forward portion of the knife. Conveniently, the wedge surface 48 is angled away from the mandrel 18 so that forces generated as the knife 34 advances through a blind being cut will tend to urge the knife 34, and thus the cutter assembly 4 laterally toward the mandrel 18, thereby ensuring a clean shearing of the blind as the knife 34 advances toward the mandrel 18 during a cutting operation. The precise contour of the wedge surface 48 (planar in the illustrated embodiment), and the angle defined between the wedge surface 48 and the front surface 47 will largely be a mater of design preference, taking into account the facts that reducing the angle tends to reduce the forces generated during the severing operation but produces a cutting edge. 46 which dulls more rapidly.
The rear surface 49 extends rearwardly from the wedge surface 48 substantially parallel to the front surface 47. The rear surface 49 is preferably planar, to provide a stable engagement with the knife mount 40 of the carrier unit 33. The knife 34 further includes a step relief 51 formed between the wedge surface 48 and rear surface 49. The step relief S 1 operatively engages a leading edge 52 of the knife mount 40 of the earner unit 33 to stabilize the knife 34, and thereby prevent undesired movement of the knife 34 during repeated severing operations, while at the same time minimizing the forces imposed on the mounting screws securing the knife 34 to the knife mount 40.
A l;auge assembly 35 is securely mounted to the top of the drive block 38 for selectively controlling an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind.
Conveniently, the gauge assembly 35 can be mounted on an upper surface of the guide member 39 by means of suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The gauge assembly generally comprises a gauge holder 53, a ruler 36 slidably mounted in the gauge holder 53, and a stoppc;r bar 37 depending from an end of the ruler 36.
Referring to Figure 8, the gauge holder 53 includes a locking device 54 for releasably locking the ruler 36 in a selected position. In general, any suitable means for releasably locking the ruler 36 in place can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 54 comprises a pressure plate 55 movably disposed within a bore 56 in the gauge holder 53, and a pressure-screw 57 operatively mounted in a the gauge holder 53 for selectively pressing the pressure plate 55 against the ruler 36 by rotation of a knob 58 affixed to the pressure screw 57. Friction between the ruler 36 and the pressure plate 55 can then serve to prevent unintentional movement of the ruler 36.
Alternatively, other locking means, such as a spring-loaded pressure plate, or a latch or pin arrangement which engages detents on the ruler could also be used.
In order to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of the blind severing operation, the ruler 36 includes indices (not shown) permanently formed thereon (such as, for example, by engraving or etching), and the gauge holder 53 includes an integrally formed pointer 59 oriented proximal the indices of the ruler 36. The ruler indices and the pointer 59 on the gauge holder 53 cooperate to provide an indication of the lateral distance between the stopper bar :37 and the cutting edge 46 of the knife 34 (i.e. the amount of material which will be removed during the severing operation). By this means, the stopper bar 37 can be positioned accurately and reproducibly by a user, by adjusting the ruler 36 with respect to the pointer _'i9. In principle, any convenient scale can be used for the indices on the ruler 36. Howevc;r, it is particularly advantageous to mark the indices as a "half scale", such that the length indicated on the ruler 36 corresponds to the total amount by which a blind will be shortened when material has been removed from both ends of the blind.
This arrangement has the benefit of eliminating the need for the user to calculate an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind, thereby increasing speed and reducing the possibility o~f error.
The stopper bar 37 extends from a free earl of the ruler 36 and includes a elongate abutment surface 60 oriented substantially parallel to tl~e bath o14 ro7o~~eme.nt c:>f the cutter unit 4, and positioned within the blind receiving and sc:vi;ri ~g region ~:) at tloe c~levice 1. 'I~he abutment surface 60 serves to limit arr amount of rrraterial to be renrcwed from a.nd end of a blind. Thus in use, the position of the: aburtrnerrt surtacaw fii.> caf tire stc~ppe~r bar 37 can be set by adjusting the ruler 36, with refetence~ to the ruler indict and tirc.a poir:~ter :i9 of the gauge holder 53. The position of the abutment surfa.cc t~~p of rhu stc~pp~~r bar 37 can then be locked by use of the locking device 54. Subsequently, a blind can lie ic;uertc::d into tine blind receiving and severing region 9 until the head rail, slats, and bo~:tom rail contact the trbtrtment surface 60 of the stopper bar 37, thereby ensuring, that a sabstar~tiall~.
equal amount oaf material will be removed from the ends of all cal tkw c;on~porrent~, of tine blind. Furthermore, a substantially equal amount of material can be reliably removed from the hour ernis of a plurality of blinds, without stopping to measure priur° tc.7 eaelr sesr er°irrg operation. f1'lris serves to maximize production and reliability, while mirairariring the r~i:~,k or errors.
The clamp assembly .~i is rnourrted oro elm base .' kor sc:.curing a blirud within the blind receiving and severing region ~l oftl~e devit;e 1. Ixr tine illr.rstrated otwbc7diruerrt, the clamp assembly 5 comprises a clannlaing bkock 6 ( ~rrrd a clar~np scrwew fa'?
which can be rotated by a knob 63. The clamping blacl~ 61 includes a cl4rrnping srrr~face 64 for engaging a bottom rail of a blind, and a sliding surface fiS for sliding c»7 tire clamping guide; surface I 3 c.dthe base 2. (See Figure 1.) As shown in Figures 1 arad '?, the clamping :yurfac.e 64 of the clamping block 61 is preferably curved to match the. curvature cof the bottom rail of a blind, so that the blind can be securely clamped within the blind receiving anti severing region 9 of the device 1 without distorting the bottom rail of the blind. t)ption~ 11y, t.hc clarnpirrg surface 64 can be provided with a resilient pacl (note shown] to prc,vent r~rarr~ing the, starface finish of the bottom rail of the 'blind during clamping. As a fur~t.her option the ~:lurmpirng block t~I can also include a spring loaded pin (not shrown) whielz bears against the clar~~pilrg guide surface 13 of the base 2, and is engageable with a groove (riot sl~owru) irr thc°
~,laml~iizg guide surface 13 of the base 2 to limit a forward extent ot'movemer~t of t he c;lampirr~;
lalc,~ck.
The clamp screw 62 is rotatably rrrountt,d in the rear end wall 8 of the base by means of a suitable bearing (nc>t shown) ct~patxlr: c,~f transrnrttirag thrust loads between the clamp screw 62 and the rear end wall 8 of the base 2. A shaft extension 66 of the clamp screw 62 extends through the rear end wall 8 so that the knob 63 can be secured thereto.
Thus the clamp screw 62 can be rotated as desired by rotation of the knob 63.
The opposite end of the clamp screw 62 is threadably engaged with the clamping block 61, so that the clamping block 61 will be caused to move linearly along the clamping guide surface 13 of the base 2 by rotation of the clamp screw 62. In use, the clamping block 61 cooperates with the mandrel 18 and back-up surface 12 of the front end wall 7 to secure the head rail, slats and bottom rail of a blind as a single body within the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the cut-down device 1.
ReiFernng now to Figure 9, in use, the mini-blind cut down device 1 of the invention is mounted in an elongate cutting table 67, which includes a support surface 68, a fence 69, a debris collector 70, and a side wall 71. The device 1 is mounted in the cutting table 67 so that the support surface 68 is at the same elevation as a the head-rail guide surface 10 of the device 1. This ensures that a mini blind head rail 11 is fully supported along its entire length during a cutting operation, and thus minimizes bending or twisting of the head rail 11. Similarly, the fence 69 is positioned generally coplanar with the back-stop surface 12, to ensure full support (and proper alignment) of the head rail 11 during the cutting operation.
Thc~ debris collector 70 is designed to collect cut end portions and other debris generated during cutting operations. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 9 and l0a-b, the debris collector 70 generally comprises an entrapment wall 72 extending around an end of the cutting table 67 opposite the support surface 68, a transparent top 73 removably mounted on the entrapment wall 72. As shown in Figure 10a, a debris bag 74 can be secured to the cutting table 67 within the entrapment wall 72. The entrapment wall 72 and transparent l:op 73 cooperate to prevent flying debris from escaping the debris collector 70, and thereby contribute to workplace safety and cleanliness. The entrapment wall 72 can be constructed of any convenient material, such as, for example steel or aluminum sheet. The transparent l:op 73 can conveniently be constructed of the same materials as the cover plate 23 and front plate 24 of the cut down device 1 (such as, for example Lexan (trademark) or Plexiglas (Trademark)), and serves to stop flying debris while at the same time allowing unobstructed view of the cut down device 1. Preferably, the transparent top 73 is mounted to the entrapment wall 72 by means of a hinge (not shown), which allows the user to obtain easy access to the cut down device 1. One side of the entrapment wall 72 includes a slot or cut-out portion 75 to provide clearance for the stopper bar 39.
The debris bag 74 is used to collect debris generated during cutting operations, and can be of any suitable construction, such as, for example, wire or polymer mesh or fabric. If deaired, the surface of the cutting table 67 within the entrapment wall 72 can be designed to form a chute 76 for collecting and directing cut debris into the debris bag 74, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 1 Ob. Alternatively, a bucket, or waste bin constructed of any suitable material could be used in place of the debris bag 74, again as shown in the embodiment of Figure 1 Ob.
As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the side wall 71 preferably includes a passage for receiving; the handle 32 of the hand crank 30 when the device 1 is not in use.
Accordingly, when the device 1 is not in use, the handle 32 can be inserted to the passage 78, where it will not present a safety hazard to persons working around the device 1.
Conveniently, the passage 78 can be positioned so that, when the handle 32 of the hand crank 30 is inserted into the passage 78, the crank arm 31 is positioned over the knob 63 of the clamp screw 62 of the clamping block 61. This arrangement ensures that when the device 1 is not in use, the knob 63 of the clamp screw 62 is protected for accidental impact.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above-described embodiments or the present invention can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, the present invention has been described as being designed for cutting down the width of venetian-type min-blinds.
However, it will be seen that the present invention can be readily modified to be operative with larger, conventional venetian type blinds. In addition, while the design of the present invention is particularly suited to cut down blinds constructed of PVC (or other thermoplastic material), blinds constructed of other materials (such as aluminum) can also be severed using the device of the present invention. Thus it will be seen that the above described arnbodiments are intended to be illustrative, rather than limitative of the present invention.
The front plate serves to protect a user from forwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation. By means of the cover plate and the front plate, the user is able to continuously monitor a severing operation, while being protected from flying debris. Thus a high quality cut can be ensured, and. the safety of the operator is enhanced.
In am embodiment of the present invention, the mini-blind cut down device includes a g~~uge assembly for selectively controlling an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind. The gauge assembly generally comprises a gauge holder, a ruler slidably mounted on the gauge holder, and a stopper bar depending from an end of the ruler. Preferably, the ruler includes indices indicative of an amount of material to be removed from a blind. More preferably, the indices are marked as a half scale, such that the length indicated on the ruler corresponds to the total amount by which a blind will be 1 S shortened when material has been removed from both ends of the blind.
In an embodiment of the present invention, the gauge holder is operatively mounted on the earner above the upper plate, and includes a locking device for releasably locking the rwler in a selected position. Conveniently, the locking device can comprise a pressure plate movably disposed within a bore in the gauge holder, and a pressure-screw operatively :mounted in the gauge holder for selectively pressing the pressure plate against the ruler. Friction between the ruler and the pressure plate serves to prevent unintentional movement of the ruler.
Preferably, the gauge holder includes an integrally formed pointer oriented proximal thE; indices of the ruler, whereby a position of the stopper bar can be accurately set by a user.
Conveniently, the stopper b~~r includes a elongate abutment surface oriented substantiall~~ parallel to the path of movement of the carrier, and positioned within the blind receiving and severing area of the base. The abutment surface serves to limit an amount of material to be removed from and end of a blind. Thus in use, the position of the abutment surface of the stopper bar can be set by adjusting the ruler, with reference to the ruler indices and the pointer of the gauge holder. The position of the abutment surface of the stopper bar can then be locked by use of the locking device. Subsequently, a blind can be inserted into the blind receiving anal severing area of the base, until the head rail, slats, and base rail contact the abutment surface of the stopper bar, thereby ensuring that material will be remewed from the ends of all of the components of the blind.
Furthermore, a S substantially equal amount of material can be reliably removed from the ends of a plurality of blinds, without stopping to measure prior to each severing operation. This serves to allow increased production and reliability.
In ml embodiment of the invention, the knife includes a cutting edge for severing a blind within the cutting area of the base. Preferably, the cutting edge has an arcuate contour, such that the cutting edge first contacts opposite longitudinal edges of a blind during Beveling of the blind. This ha;~ the effect of reducing the forces required for cutting, and reduces the tendency of the blind components to twist or deform during the severing operation.
Conveniently, the knife includes a first face extending rearwardly from the cutting 1 S edge and substantially parallel to a direction of movement of the knife during a cutting operation. Optionally, the first face can have an arcuate contour for providing a curved end of a severed blind, which is visually more pleasing.
Preferably, the back-up die will include at lease one surface having an arcuate contour corresponding to that of the first face of the knife. Thus the cutting edge of the knife and the back-up die will cooperate to provide an efficient shearing of a blind as the knife is adv~~nced through the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device.
Conveniently, the knife inchzdes a second face extending rearwardly from the cutting edge. and at an angle with respect to the first face to define a wedge shape of at least a forward portion of the knife. Preferably, the knife further includes a step relief proximal a rearward limit of the second face. This step relief operatively engages an edge of the carrier to stabilize the knife, and thereby prevent undesired movement of the knife during repeated severing operations.
The drive screw can be rotated by a crank handle, or by a power drive system, such as an electric motor.
In ;~ preferred embodiment of the invention, the clamping block cooperates with the back-up die to secure the head rail, slats and bottom rail of a blind as a single body within the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device. The clamping block can also include a pin engageable with a groove of the base to limit a forward extent of movement of the clamping block.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least in the vicinity of the blind receiving and severing area of the cut-down device, the base is provided with large radius fillets and chamfered edges to promote clearing of debris from the cut-down device. This has the effect of making the device effectively self cleaning, as debris from previous severing operations is cleared from the blind receiving and severing area by movement of the carrier. Consequently, numerous blind ends can be severed in succession without clogging or,jamming the device with debris.
Thc; device of the present invention is particularly suitable for severing the ends of mini-blinds constructed of PVC or similar thermoplastic material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mini-blind cut-down device in accordance with an embodirrient of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a side view of the embodiment of Figure 1, with a blind shown clamped in position in the blind receiving and severing region of the device, in preparation for severing and end of the blind;
Figure 3 is a cross section view of the embodiment of Figure 1 taken through line A-A in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is a cross section view of the embodiment of Figure 1 taken through line B-B in Figure 2;
Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view of the cutter assembly of the embodiment of Figure l;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a knife blade usable in the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figures 7a and 7b respectively show the rear and top views of the knife blade of Figure 6;
Figure 7c is a cross-section view of the knife blade of Figure 6, taken along line C-C of Figure 7a;
Figure 8 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a gauge-holder usable in the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the device of the present invention mounted for use in a cutter table; and.
Figures l0a and l Ob show partial cross-section view showing alternative embodiments of a debris collector usable with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Re:fernng to Figures 1 and 2, a mini-blind cut down device 1 generally comprises a base 2, a dlrive screw 3, a cutter assembly 4, and a clamping assembly 5.
Th~~ base 2 generally comprises an elongate supporting and guiding platform 6, 1 S and front and rear end walls 7, 8 mounted at opposite ends of the supporting and guiding platform 6. The front end wall 7, and the supporting and guiding platform 6 cooperate to define a blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. The base 2 can be conveniently fabricated of any suitable material having sufficient strength, rigidity and toughness, ~;uch as, for example, steel, or aluminum.
As is best shown in Figures 1 and 2, the blind receiving and severing region 9 includes a head rail guide surface 10 for supporting and guiding a blind head rail 11 into the blind receiving and severing region 9, and for supporting the head rail 11 during the cutting operation. A back-stop surface 12 of the front end wall 7 extends vertically from the head rail guide surface 10, and serves as a back-stop to further support the head rail 11 during the cutting operation. A clamping guide surface 13 extends rearwardly from the head rail guide surface 10 through to the rear end wall 8. Conveniently, the clamping guide surface 13 is at a different elevation from the head rail guide surface 10, so as to accommodate the offset which typically exists between the dimensions of the blind slats and bottom rail 14 and the head rail 11 of a blind (see Figure 2).
At least in the vicinity of the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the cut-down device 1, the base 2 is provided with large radius fillets 15 and chamfered edges 16 (see Figures 3 and 4) to promote clearing of debris from the cut-down device 1. This has the effect of making the device 1 effectively self cleaning, as debris from previous severing operations i;~ cleared from the blind receiving and severing region 9 by movement of the cutter assembly 4. As a result, numerous blind ends can be severed in succession without clogging or,jamming the device 1 with debris.
The front end wall 7 includes at least two holes 17 (three are shown in the illustrated embodiment) to accommodate suitable bolts, screws or pins (not shown) to removably secure a mandrel 18 to the back-stop surface 12 within the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. In Figures 2 and 3, the mandrel 18 is illustrated as being generally rectangular in cross-section. However, in practice, several mandrels having respective different cross-sections can be provided, so that an appropriate mandrel can be selected depending on the cross-sectional shape of the head rail 11 of a blind being cut.
Thus in use, a mandrel 18 can be selected to fit snugly within the head rail of a blind, and then secured to the back-stop surface 12. The blind can then be inserted into the blind receiving anal severing region 9, with the head rail 11 slid over the mandrel 18 (as shown in Figure 2). With this arrangement, the head rail 11 can be held securely in position, and movement a.nd distortion of the head rail 11 is minimized during the cutting operation, so that a high duality cut end of the blind can be achieved.
An upper plate 19 extends between the end walls 7, 8 of the base, and is securely fastened thereto by suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The upper plate 19 includes an elongate groove 20 having opposed side surfaces 21, 22 which serve as a linear guide for the cutter assembly 4.
As best seen in Figures 1, 3 and 4, an impact resistant, transparent cover plate 23 is mounted between upper portions of the end walls 7, 8, adjacent to and in abutting contact with the upper plate 19, by means of suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The cover plate 23 serves to protect a user from upwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the cutting operation.
Similarly, an impact resistant, transparent front plate 24 can also be mounted between the end walls 7, 8, and extending downwardly from the cover plate 23.
Convenientlly, the front plate 24 can be designed to be mounted within grooves 25, 26 provided in the end walls 7, 8 of the base 2, as shown in Figure 1. With this arrangement, the front plate 24 is retained in position by the grooves 25, 26 and the cover plate 23, thereby providing a secure fastening of the front plate 24 while avoiding the additional cost and comple:Kity associated with the use of additional screws or bolts to secure the front plate 24. The front plate 24 serves to protect a user from forwardly projected debris during severing of a blind while offering a substantially unobstructed view of the severing operation. 'Chus by means of the cover plate 23 and the front plate 24, the user is able to continuously monitor a cutting operation, while being protected from flying debris.
Consequently, a high quality cut can be ensured, and the safety of the operator is enhanced.
The cover plate 23 and front plate 24 can be constructed of any suitable material providing transparenc~~ and impact resistance, such as, for example, Lexan (trade-mark) or Plexiglas (trade-mark;).
The drive screw 3 extends between the front and rear end walls 7, 8 of the base 2, and is rotationally supported by suitable bearings 27, 28 mounted in the end walls 7, 8 respectively. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the front end wall bearing 27 is designed to absorb thru~a loads. Accordingly, cutting forces generated during a severing operation imposes a tensile load on the drive screw 3 between the cutter assembly 4 and the front end wall bearing 27. This arrangement minimizes the length of the stress-path between the cutter asserr~bly 4 and the back-stop surface 12 and mandrel 18, thereby minimizing the potential for distortion of the drive-screw 3 and base 2 (and consequent reduction in quality of the cut end of a blind), during the cutting operation. Conveniently, the drive screw 3 includes a shaft extension 29 which extends through the rear end wall bearing 28. The drive screw 3 can be rotated by a hand crank 30 comprising a crank arm 31 coupled to the free end of the shaft extension 29 by conventional means, such as a bolt, shear pin, clevis pin , key and groove or the like (not shown); and a handle 32 mounted on a free end of the crank arm 31. Conveniently, the handle 32 can be mounted in the crank arm 31 in such a manner that it can be slid through the crank arm 31 in a longitudinal direction of the handle 32 (as shown by the dashed line in Figure 2). Alternatively, the drive screw 3 can be driven by an electric motor (not shown) coupled to the free end of the shaft extension 29 either directly or via a gear or belt drive system.
The cutter assembly 4 generally comprises a carrier unit 33, a knife 34 affixed to the earner 33, and a gauge assembly 35 including a ruler 36 and a stopper bar 37 mounted on top of the earner unit 33. The earner unit 33 is mounted on the base 2 for linear movement between the end walls 7, 8, and generally comprises a drive block 38 including a guide member 39, a knife mount 40 depending downwardly from the drive block 38, and slider block 41 mounted on the lower extremity of the knife mount 40. The drive block 38 is generally composed as a rectangular body having the guide member 39 extending from an upper surface thereof, and a threaded through-hole 42. Side surfaces 39a, 39b of the guide block 39 slidingly engage the cooperating interior surfaces 21, 22 of the elongate groove 20 of the upper plate 19 to prevent rotational movement of the cutter assembly 4 about the axis of the drive screw 3 as the drive screw 3 is rotated. The threaded through hole 42 is d~aigned to operatively engage the drive screw 3 so that the drive block 38 (and thus the cutter assembly 4 as a whole) can be forcibly driven along the length of the base 2 by rotation of the drive screw 3. The knife mount 40 is designed to provide a secure 1 S support for ~~ knife 34, and is positioned so that the cutting edge of the knife 34 will be held approximately centered under the drive screw 3 so as to minimize any twisting of the cutter assembly 4 during a cutting operation. Conveniently, the knife mount 40 includes at least one through hole 43 (see figure 4) allowing passage of a respective screw or bolt (not shown) for securing the knife 34 to the knife mount 40. Finally, the slider block 41 is provided on the free end of the knife mount 40, and includes a slider groove 44 designed to slidably engage a corresponding rail 45 mounted on the base 2, so that lateral deflections of the carrier unit 33 during cutting operations can be minimized. The earner unit 33 can be manufactured using any suitable material, such as steel or aluminum.
Conveniently, the carrier unit :33 is manufactured as a single "monolithic" body by casting and/or machining, thereby allowing the carrier unit 33 to be manufactured for low cost, while ensuring maximum srrength and rigidity.
Th~~ knife 34 is removably affixed to the knife mount 40 of the carrier unit 33 and designed to sever an end of a mini-blind as the cutter assembly 4 is advanced through the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the device 1. As shown in Figures 6-7c, the knife 34 includes a cutting edge 46, a front surface 47, a wedge surface 48, a rear surface 49 and one or more mounting holes 50 (two are provided in the illustrated embodiment) which correspond with the through-holes 43 of the knife mount 40. The cutting edge 46 is designed for severing a blind as the knife 34 is advanced through the blind receiving and severing region 9. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the cutting edge 46 preferably has an arcuate contour, such that the cutting edge 46 first contacts opposite longitudinal edges of a blind during severing of the blind. This has the effect of reducing the forces required for cutting, and reduces the tendency of the blind components to twist or deform during the severing operation. The front surface 47 of the knife 34 extends rearwardly from the cutaing edge 46 and substantially parallel to the direction of movement of the knife 34 during a cutting operation. If desired, the front surface 47 can be planar, or have an arcuate contour as shown in the drawings. In general, an arcuate contour of the front surface 47 is found to be preferable, because it yields a curved end of a severed blind, which is visually more pleasing.
The wedge surface 48 extends rearwardly from the cutting edge 46 and at an angle with respect to the front surface 47 to define a wedge shape of at least a forward portion of the knife. Conveniently, the wedge surface 48 is angled away from the mandrel 18 so that forces generated as the knife 34 advances through a blind being cut will tend to urge the knife 34, and thus the cutter assembly 4 laterally toward the mandrel 18, thereby ensuring a clean shearing of the blind as the knife 34 advances toward the mandrel 18 during a cutting operation. The precise contour of the wedge surface 48 (planar in the illustrated embodiment), and the angle defined between the wedge surface 48 and the front surface 47 will largely be a mater of design preference, taking into account the facts that reducing the angle tends to reduce the forces generated during the severing operation but produces a cutting edge. 46 which dulls more rapidly.
The rear surface 49 extends rearwardly from the wedge surface 48 substantially parallel to the front surface 47. The rear surface 49 is preferably planar, to provide a stable engagement with the knife mount 40 of the carrier unit 33. The knife 34 further includes a step relief 51 formed between the wedge surface 48 and rear surface 49. The step relief S 1 operatively engages a leading edge 52 of the knife mount 40 of the earner unit 33 to stabilize the knife 34, and thereby prevent undesired movement of the knife 34 during repeated severing operations, while at the same time minimizing the forces imposed on the mounting screws securing the knife 34 to the knife mount 40.
A l;auge assembly 35 is securely mounted to the top of the drive block 38 for selectively controlling an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind.
Conveniently, the gauge assembly 35 can be mounted on an upper surface of the guide member 39 by means of suitable screws or bolts (not shown). The gauge assembly generally comprises a gauge holder 53, a ruler 36 slidably mounted in the gauge holder 53, and a stoppc;r bar 37 depending from an end of the ruler 36.
Referring to Figure 8, the gauge holder 53 includes a locking device 54 for releasably locking the ruler 36 in a selected position. In general, any suitable means for releasably locking the ruler 36 in place can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 54 comprises a pressure plate 55 movably disposed within a bore 56 in the gauge holder 53, and a pressure-screw 57 operatively mounted in a the gauge holder 53 for selectively pressing the pressure plate 55 against the ruler 36 by rotation of a knob 58 affixed to the pressure screw 57. Friction between the ruler 36 and the pressure plate 55 can then serve to prevent unintentional movement of the ruler 36.
Alternatively, other locking means, such as a spring-loaded pressure plate, or a latch or pin arrangement which engages detents on the ruler could also be used.
In order to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of the blind severing operation, the ruler 36 includes indices (not shown) permanently formed thereon (such as, for example, by engraving or etching), and the gauge holder 53 includes an integrally formed pointer 59 oriented proximal the indices of the ruler 36. The ruler indices and the pointer 59 on the gauge holder 53 cooperate to provide an indication of the lateral distance between the stopper bar :37 and the cutting edge 46 of the knife 34 (i.e. the amount of material which will be removed during the severing operation). By this means, the stopper bar 37 can be positioned accurately and reproducibly by a user, by adjusting the ruler 36 with respect to the pointer _'i9. In principle, any convenient scale can be used for the indices on the ruler 36. Howevc;r, it is particularly advantageous to mark the indices as a "half scale", such that the length indicated on the ruler 36 corresponds to the total amount by which a blind will be shortened when material has been removed from both ends of the blind.
This arrangement has the benefit of eliminating the need for the user to calculate an amount of material to be severed from each end of a blind, thereby increasing speed and reducing the possibility o~f error.
The stopper bar 37 extends from a free earl of the ruler 36 and includes a elongate abutment surface 60 oriented substantially parallel to tl~e bath o14 ro7o~~eme.nt c:>f the cutter unit 4, and positioned within the blind receiving and sc:vi;ri ~g region ~:) at tloe c~levice 1. 'I~he abutment surface 60 serves to limit arr amount of rrraterial to be renrcwed from a.nd end of a blind. Thus in use, the position of the: aburtrnerrt surtacaw fii.> caf tire stc~ppe~r bar 37 can be set by adjusting the ruler 36, with refetence~ to the ruler indict and tirc.a poir:~ter :i9 of the gauge holder 53. The position of the abutment surfa.cc t~~p of rhu stc~pp~~r bar 37 can then be locked by use of the locking device 54. Subsequently, a blind can lie ic;uertc::d into tine blind receiving and severing region 9 until the head rail, slats, and bo~:tom rail contact the trbtrtment surface 60 of the stopper bar 37, thereby ensuring, that a sabstar~tiall~.
equal amount oaf material will be removed from the ends of all cal tkw c;on~porrent~, of tine blind. Furthermore, a substantially equal amount of material can be reliably removed from the hour ernis of a plurality of blinds, without stopping to measure priur° tc.7 eaelr sesr er°irrg operation. f1'lris serves to maximize production and reliability, while mirairariring the r~i:~,k or errors.
The clamp assembly .~i is rnourrted oro elm base .' kor sc:.curing a blirud within the blind receiving and severing region ~l oftl~e devit;e 1. Ixr tine illr.rstrated otwbc7diruerrt, the clamp assembly 5 comprises a clannlaing bkock 6 ( ~rrrd a clar~np scrwew fa'?
which can be rotated by a knob 63. The clamping blacl~ 61 includes a cl4rrnping srrr~face 64 for engaging a bottom rail of a blind, and a sliding surface fiS for sliding c»7 tire clamping guide; surface I 3 c.dthe base 2. (See Figure 1.) As shown in Figures 1 arad '?, the clamping :yurfac.e 64 of the clamping block 61 is preferably curved to match the. curvature cof the bottom rail of a blind, so that the blind can be securely clamped within the blind receiving anti severing region 9 of the device 1 without distorting the bottom rail of the blind. t)ption~ 11y, t.hc clarnpirrg surface 64 can be provided with a resilient pacl (note shown] to prc,vent r~rarr~ing the, starface finish of the bottom rail of the 'blind during clamping. As a fur~t.her option the ~:lurmpirng block t~I can also include a spring loaded pin (not shrown) whielz bears against the clar~~pilrg guide surface 13 of the base 2, and is engageable with a groove (riot sl~owru) irr thc°
~,laml~iizg guide surface 13 of the base 2 to limit a forward extent ot'movemer~t of t he c;lampirr~;
lalc,~ck.
The clamp screw 62 is rotatably rrrountt,d in the rear end wall 8 of the base by means of a suitable bearing (nc>t shown) ct~patxlr: c,~f transrnrttirag thrust loads between the clamp screw 62 and the rear end wall 8 of the base 2. A shaft extension 66 of the clamp screw 62 extends through the rear end wall 8 so that the knob 63 can be secured thereto.
Thus the clamp screw 62 can be rotated as desired by rotation of the knob 63.
The opposite end of the clamp screw 62 is threadably engaged with the clamping block 61, so that the clamping block 61 will be caused to move linearly along the clamping guide surface 13 of the base 2 by rotation of the clamp screw 62. In use, the clamping block 61 cooperates with the mandrel 18 and back-up surface 12 of the front end wall 7 to secure the head rail, slats and bottom rail of a blind as a single body within the blind receiving and severing region 9 of the cut-down device 1.
ReiFernng now to Figure 9, in use, the mini-blind cut down device 1 of the invention is mounted in an elongate cutting table 67, which includes a support surface 68, a fence 69, a debris collector 70, and a side wall 71. The device 1 is mounted in the cutting table 67 so that the support surface 68 is at the same elevation as a the head-rail guide surface 10 of the device 1. This ensures that a mini blind head rail 11 is fully supported along its entire length during a cutting operation, and thus minimizes bending or twisting of the head rail 11. Similarly, the fence 69 is positioned generally coplanar with the back-stop surface 12, to ensure full support (and proper alignment) of the head rail 11 during the cutting operation.
Thc~ debris collector 70 is designed to collect cut end portions and other debris generated during cutting operations. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 9 and l0a-b, the debris collector 70 generally comprises an entrapment wall 72 extending around an end of the cutting table 67 opposite the support surface 68, a transparent top 73 removably mounted on the entrapment wall 72. As shown in Figure 10a, a debris bag 74 can be secured to the cutting table 67 within the entrapment wall 72. The entrapment wall 72 and transparent l:op 73 cooperate to prevent flying debris from escaping the debris collector 70, and thereby contribute to workplace safety and cleanliness. The entrapment wall 72 can be constructed of any convenient material, such as, for example steel or aluminum sheet. The transparent l:op 73 can conveniently be constructed of the same materials as the cover plate 23 and front plate 24 of the cut down device 1 (such as, for example Lexan (trademark) or Plexiglas (Trademark)), and serves to stop flying debris while at the same time allowing unobstructed view of the cut down device 1. Preferably, the transparent top 73 is mounted to the entrapment wall 72 by means of a hinge (not shown), which allows the user to obtain easy access to the cut down device 1. One side of the entrapment wall 72 includes a slot or cut-out portion 75 to provide clearance for the stopper bar 39.
The debris bag 74 is used to collect debris generated during cutting operations, and can be of any suitable construction, such as, for example, wire or polymer mesh or fabric. If deaired, the surface of the cutting table 67 within the entrapment wall 72 can be designed to form a chute 76 for collecting and directing cut debris into the debris bag 74, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 1 Ob. Alternatively, a bucket, or waste bin constructed of any suitable material could be used in place of the debris bag 74, again as shown in the embodiment of Figure 1 Ob.
As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the side wall 71 preferably includes a passage for receiving; the handle 32 of the hand crank 30 when the device 1 is not in use.
Accordingly, when the device 1 is not in use, the handle 32 can be inserted to the passage 78, where it will not present a safety hazard to persons working around the device 1.
Conveniently, the passage 78 can be positioned so that, when the handle 32 of the hand crank 30 is inserted into the passage 78, the crank arm 31 is positioned over the knob 63 of the clamp screw 62 of the clamping block 61. This arrangement ensures that when the device 1 is not in use, the knob 63 of the clamp screw 62 is protected for accidental impact.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above-described embodiments or the present invention can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, the present invention has been described as being designed for cutting down the width of venetian-type min-blinds.
However, it will be seen that the present invention can be readily modified to be operative with larger, conventional venetian type blinds. In addition, while the design of the present invention is particularly suited to cut down blinds constructed of PVC (or other thermoplastic material), blinds constructed of other materials (such as aluminum) can also be severed using the device of the present invention. Thus it will be seen that the above described arnbodiments are intended to be illustrative, rather than limitative of the present invention.
Claims (9)
1. An apparatus for cutting a window blind having a head rail, a bottom rail and a plurality of slats therebetween, said apparatus comprising:
(a) a frame including a base and first and second end walls on said base;
(b) a mandrel on an interior surface of said first end wall for receiving the head rail of a blind and securing said head rail against said interior surface of said first end wall, said mandrel being removably mounted on said first end wall to facilitate mandrel replacement, whereby different mandrels can be mounted in said frame to accommodate different head rails;
(c) a clamp in said frame movable on said base between said second end wall and said mandrel for sliding towards said mandrel to push the bottom rail of a blind towards said mandrel to clamp the entire blind in said frame between said mandrel and said clamp;
(d) a carriage slidable on said base for movement between said first and second end walls towards and away from said mandrel;
(e) a drive screw extending between sail first and second end walls and through said carriage for moving said carriage along said base between said first and second end walls;
(f) a knife on said carriage for severing a blind clamped in said body when said carriage is moved towards said first end wall and mandrel by rotation of the drive screw; and (g) a gauge on said carriage for determining the length of material cut from an end of said blind, said gauge including a ruler slidable on said carriage, and a stop carried by said ruler for limiting insertion of a blind into the frame.
(a) a frame including a base and first and second end walls on said base;
(b) a mandrel on an interior surface of said first end wall for receiving the head rail of a blind and securing said head rail against said interior surface of said first end wall, said mandrel being removably mounted on said first end wall to facilitate mandrel replacement, whereby different mandrels can be mounted in said frame to accommodate different head rails;
(c) a clamp in said frame movable on said base between said second end wall and said mandrel for sliding towards said mandrel to push the bottom rail of a blind towards said mandrel to clamp the entire blind in said frame between said mandrel and said clamp;
(d) a carriage slidable on said base for movement between said first and second end walls towards and away from said mandrel;
(e) a drive screw extending between sail first and second end walls and through said carriage for moving said carriage along said base between said first and second end walls;
(f) a knife on said carriage for severing a blind clamped in said body when said carriage is moved towards said first end wall and mandrel by rotation of the drive screw; and (g) a gauge on said carriage for determining the length of material cut from an end of said blind, said gauge including a ruler slidable on said carriage, and a stop carried by said ruler for limiting insertion of a blind into the frame.
2. The cutting apparatus of claim 1 including a top plate extending between rear portions of said first and second earl walls; or slot extending longitudinally of said top plate; and a head on said carriage slidable in said slot for stabilizing the carriage in said frame.
3. The cutting apparatus of claim 2 including an impact resistant, transparent cover on front portions of said first and second end walls abutting said top plate for protecting an operator of the apparatus from upwardly flying debris while affording an unobstructed view of a severing operation.
4. The cutting apparatus of claim 2 including an impact resistant, transparent front plate extending between said first and second end walls beneath said cover for protecting an operator of the apparatus front forwardly flying debris while affording an unobstructed view of a severing operation.
5. The cutting apparatus of claim 1, wherein said gauge includes a holder on said carriage for slidably receiving said ruler; and a lock in said holder for releasably retaining the ruler and consequently said stop in a fixed position.
6. The cutting apparatus of claim 5, wherein said lock includes a pressure plate slidably mounted in said holder for releasably engaging said ruler; and a screw in said holder for moving said pressure plate against the ruler to lock the ruler between said holder and said carriage.
7. The cutting apparatus of claim 5, wherein said stop includes an elongated abutment surface parallel to the path of travel of said carriage in said frame for limiting insertion of a blind into the frame.
8. The cutting apparatus of claim 1, wherein said knife includes a shoulder for engaging said carriage for stabilizing the knife of the carriage during cutting operations.
9. The cutting apparatus of claim 1, wherein said clamp includes a block slidable on said base; and a clamp screw extending through said second end wall into engagement with said block for moving said block towards and away from said mandrel.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2230839 CA2230839C (en) | 1998-02-26 | 1998-02-26 | Mini-blind cut-down machine |
| US09/128,785 US6334379B1 (en) | 1998-02-26 | 1998-08-04 | Mini-blind cut-down machine |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2230839 CA2230839C (en) | 1998-02-26 | 1998-02-26 | Mini-blind cut-down machine |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2230839A1 CA2230839A1 (en) | 1999-08-26 |
| CA2230839C true CA2230839C (en) | 2004-01-06 |
Family
ID=4162171
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2230839 Expired - Fee Related CA2230839C (en) | 1998-02-26 | 1998-02-26 | Mini-blind cut-down machine |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US6334379B1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2230839C (en) |
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| US6758120B2 (en) * | 1995-09-11 | 2004-07-06 | Shade-O-Matic Limited | Blind cut down apparatus |
| CA2312533C (en) * | 1999-06-28 | 2003-01-07 | Shade-O-Matic Limited | Vertical blind cut down machine and method |
| US6912940B1 (en) * | 1999-10-19 | 2005-07-05 | Universal Presentation Concepts, Inc. | Cutting table and clamp for use therewith |
| US6688204B2 (en) * | 2001-02-26 | 2004-02-10 | Shien-Te Huang | Cutting machine of dual blade feeding for blind of foamed plastics |
| US6644160B1 (en) * | 2001-04-12 | 2003-11-11 | William C. Boselli | Vertical blind cutting and hole-punching apparatus |
| US6604443B2 (en) | 2001-07-23 | 2003-08-12 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Blind and shade cutting center |
| US8499670B2 (en) * | 2001-07-23 | 2013-08-06 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Modular blind cutting center |
| US6877409B2 (en) * | 2001-10-12 | 2005-04-12 | Teh Yor Industrial Co., Ltd. | Cutting apparatus and method for venetian blinds |
| TW545360U (en) * | 2001-12-27 | 2003-08-01 | Ind Tech Res Inst | Automatic tightening mechanism for window curtain cutting machine |
| CA2368353A1 (en) * | 2002-01-16 | 2003-07-16 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Venetian blind cutting machine |
| US20040031366A1 (en) * | 2002-08-16 | 2004-02-19 | Shien-Te Huang | Compound venetian blind cutting and trimming machine |
| TW576316U (en) * | 2002-10-02 | 2004-02-11 | Ind Tech Res Inst | Improved positioning structure of curtain cutting mold |
| US20040112548A1 (en) * | 2002-12-12 | 2004-06-17 | Militello David R. | Shade for an arched window |
| US7810418B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2010-10-12 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Automatically configurable blind cutting center |
| US7036412B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2006-05-02 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Blind cutting center with detachable vacuum bag |
| US7178439B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2007-02-20 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Blind cutting center |
| US7059230B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2006-06-13 | Caputo Thomas A | Adjustable blind cutting device |
| US6973364B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2005-12-06 | Schwartz David A | Remotely connected blind cutting center |
| US20040173066A1 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2004-09-09 | Joshua Abdollahzadeh | Blind cutting center with multi-speed saw |
| US6865817B2 (en) | 2003-03-27 | 2005-03-15 | Shades Unlimited, Inc. | Window shade with measurement guide |
| US20050000345A1 (en) * | 2003-07-01 | 2005-01-06 | Schimmels William J. | Blind trimming apparatus and method of trimming blinds |
| US7278345B2 (en) * | 2003-07-01 | 2007-10-09 | Springs Window Fashions, Llc | Blind trimming apparatus |
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| AU2005200526B2 (en) * | 2005-02-08 | 2010-12-02 | Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd. | Blind Cutter |
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| US20070240316A1 (en) * | 2006-04-12 | 2007-10-18 | Fu-Lai Yu | Cutter |
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| US7752724B2 (en) * | 2006-06-27 | 2010-07-13 | Lumino, Inc. | Method of cutting blinds |
| US7886418B2 (en) * | 2006-09-08 | 2011-02-15 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Method and apparatus for mobile blind installation |
| US7987754B2 (en) | 2007-07-31 | 2011-08-02 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Window covering sizing method and apparatus |
| US8256333B2 (en) | 2007-07-31 | 2012-09-04 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Window covering sizing method and apparatus |
| US8839701B2 (en) | 2007-07-31 | 2014-09-23 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Window covering sizing method and apparatus |
| US9427813B2 (en) * | 2007-07-31 | 2016-08-30 | Newell Window Furnishing, Inc. | Window covering sizing method and apparatus |
| US8322260B2 (en) * | 2007-07-31 | 2012-12-04 | Newell Window Furnishings, Inc. | Window covering sizing method and apparatus |
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| US9649774B2 (en) * | 2009-01-06 | 2017-05-16 | Lumino, Inc. | Method and machine for cutting blinds |
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| TWI569938B (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2017-02-11 | Chen Jin-Fu | Curtain cutting aid |
| CN108544277A (en) * | 2018-06-14 | 2018-09-18 | 三穗县艺太门窗有限公司 | Cut point finds fixing device accurately |
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1998
- 1998-02-26 CA CA 2230839 patent/CA2230839C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-08-04 US US09/128,785 patent/US6334379B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2230839A1 (en) | 1999-08-26 |
| US6334379B1 (en) | 2002-01-01 |
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