CA2511685A1 - Control mechanism for a window covering - Google Patents
Control mechanism for a window covering Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2511685A1 CA2511685A1 CA 2511685 CA2511685A CA2511685A1 CA 2511685 A1 CA2511685 A1 CA 2511685A1 CA 2511685 CA2511685 CA 2511685 CA 2511685 A CA2511685 A CA 2511685A CA 2511685 A1 CA2511685 A1 CA 2511685A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- sliding module
- frame
- abutment stop
- control mechanism
- window covering
- 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
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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
- E06B9/262—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with flexibly-interconnected horizontal or vertical strips; Concertina blinds, i.e. upwardly folding flexible screens
- E06B2009/2622—Gathered vertically; Roman, Austrian or festoon blinds
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Blinds (AREA)
- Curtains And Furnishings For Windows Or Doors (AREA)
Abstract
A control mechanism for use in a window covering to control the raising and lowering of one or more control cords to open and close light blocking elements is provided. The control mechanism includes a frame which is mountable within a support structure, such as the headrail, and includes as a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop. A sliding module is mounted with the frame and is also secured with the control cord. The first abutment stop limits or arrests the movement of the sliding module at a first position, and the second abutment stop maintains the sliding module at a second position.
Description
i CONTROL MECHANISM FOR A WINDOW COVERING
Technical Field of the Invention This invention relates to an improved control mechanism for a window covering. More particularly, this invention relates to an improved control mechanism for controlling the position of control cords in a window covering.
Background of the Invention Conventional window coverings come in a variety of styles including Roman shades, Venetian blinds, and cellular shades. Typically, the light blocking elements of these window coverings are suspended from a headrail by one or more control cords. These control cords, when retracted or extended, raise or lower the portions of the window covering to which they are connected: For example, with a Roman shade, a control cord is typically secured to a lower portion of a continuous panel that covers the window space. By pulling on the cord, the lower portion of the panel is raised to open the window covering. A control mechanism is typically included with the headrail that enables the user to controllably adjust the opening and closing of the window covering. Examples of such control mechanisms include cord locks, rotatable drums, and the like.
The present invention is directed to a novel control mechanism for a window covering for controlling the opening and closing of the window covering.
Summar~r of the Invention The present invention relates to a control mechanism for a window covering. The window covering can take many forms, but will generally include a headrail, and a light blocking element comprising a plurality of openable rows suspended from the headrail by one or more control cords. Examples of such window coverings include a Roman style shade such as disclosed in co-pending application serial no. 10/427,829, and a Venetian blind such as disclosed in patent application serial no. 10/413,200, which was issued as U.S. Patent No.
6,792,996.
Technical Field of the Invention This invention relates to an improved control mechanism for a window covering. More particularly, this invention relates to an improved control mechanism for controlling the position of control cords in a window covering.
Background of the Invention Conventional window coverings come in a variety of styles including Roman shades, Venetian blinds, and cellular shades. Typically, the light blocking elements of these window coverings are suspended from a headrail by one or more control cords. These control cords, when retracted or extended, raise or lower the portions of the window covering to which they are connected: For example, with a Roman shade, a control cord is typically secured to a lower portion of a continuous panel that covers the window space. By pulling on the cord, the lower portion of the panel is raised to open the window covering. A control mechanism is typically included with the headrail that enables the user to controllably adjust the opening and closing of the window covering. Examples of such control mechanisms include cord locks, rotatable drums, and the like.
The present invention is directed to a novel control mechanism for a window covering for controlling the opening and closing of the window covering.
Summar~r of the Invention The present invention relates to a control mechanism for a window covering. The window covering can take many forms, but will generally include a headrail, and a light blocking element comprising a plurality of openable rows suspended from the headrail by one or more control cords. Examples of such window coverings include a Roman style shade such as disclosed in co-pending application serial no. 10/427,829, and a Venetian blind such as disclosed in patent application serial no. 10/413,200, which was issued as U.S. Patent No.
6,792,996.
The disclosures of each of co-pending application serial no. 10/427,829, and U.S.
Patent No. 6,792,996 are hereby incorporated by reference.
The control mechanism of the present invention includes a frame which is mountable within a support structure, such as the headrail. The frame includes a first end and a second end, as well as a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop. The first abutment stop is located closer to the first end of the frame than the second abutment stop and the second abutment stop is closer to the second end of the frame than the first abutment stop.
A sliding module is also included in the control mechanism. The sliding module is secured with a control cord of the window covering such that the movement of the control cord is synchronous with the movement of the sliding module. In other words, the sliding module and the control cord .move together as a unit. The sliding module is in moveable engagement with the first surface of the frame and is moveable between a first position and a second position. The movement of the sliding module is also biased toward the first end of the frame. For example, the portion of the control cord exiting the control mechanism at the first end of the frame may be connected to the suspended light blocking elements such that the weight of the light blocking elements pull on the cord, thus biasing the cord and sliding module towards the first end. The first abutment stop limits or arrests the movement of the sliding module towards the first end of the frame. In particular, the first abutment stop limits or arrests the movement of the sliding movement towards the first end of the frame when the sliding module reaches the first position. The second abutment stop also limits or arrests the movement of the sliding module toward the first end. However, the limiting or arresting of the movement towards the first end by the second abutment stop is erected when the sliding module is in the second position.
a r i As discussed, the particular window covering with which the control mechanism may be used can include several different forms. For example, in the Roman style shade of co-pending patent application serial no 10/427,829, the light blocking element is comprised of a plurality of rows of panels. The panels are narrowed by raising the control cords secured to the lower longitudinal portion of each panel such that the lower longitudinal portion is raised relative to the upper longitudinal portion, and thereby narrowing the rows to create gaps therebetween.
In the Venetian type blind of U. S. Patent No. 6,792,996, the window covering includes a plurality of rows formed of slats. A control cord is secured to a longitudinal portion of each slat at a position distal of the proximal edge of the slat.
By raising the control cord, the slats are pivoted to open.
The control mechanism may also include a further feature. The frame in which the sliding module is mounted may also be designed to be extendable. For example, the lateral end at one side of the head rail where the control cord exits can be extended by the user to fit within the available space of the window frame. An additional length of the control cord may be included so as to allow the adjustment of the frame length without affecting the portion of the control cord mounted with the shade rows.
Brief Description of the Drs~wings In the drawings, FIGURE 1 is a perspective front view of an embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is utilized;
FIGURE 2 is a partial perspective rear view of the window covering of FIGURE 1;
Patent No. 6,792,996 are hereby incorporated by reference.
The control mechanism of the present invention includes a frame which is mountable within a support structure, such as the headrail. The frame includes a first end and a second end, as well as a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop. The first abutment stop is located closer to the first end of the frame than the second abutment stop and the second abutment stop is closer to the second end of the frame than the first abutment stop.
A sliding module is also included in the control mechanism. The sliding module is secured with a control cord of the window covering such that the movement of the control cord is synchronous with the movement of the sliding module. In other words, the sliding module and the control cord .move together as a unit. The sliding module is in moveable engagement with the first surface of the frame and is moveable between a first position and a second position. The movement of the sliding module is also biased toward the first end of the frame. For example, the portion of the control cord exiting the control mechanism at the first end of the frame may be connected to the suspended light blocking elements such that the weight of the light blocking elements pull on the cord, thus biasing the cord and sliding module towards the first end. The first abutment stop limits or arrests the movement of the sliding module towards the first end of the frame. In particular, the first abutment stop limits or arrests the movement of the sliding movement towards the first end of the frame when the sliding module reaches the first position. The second abutment stop also limits or arrests the movement of the sliding module toward the first end. However, the limiting or arresting of the movement towards the first end by the second abutment stop is erected when the sliding module is in the second position.
a r i As discussed, the particular window covering with which the control mechanism may be used can include several different forms. For example, in the Roman style shade of co-pending patent application serial no 10/427,829, the light blocking element is comprised of a plurality of rows of panels. The panels are narrowed by raising the control cords secured to the lower longitudinal portion of each panel such that the lower longitudinal portion is raised relative to the upper longitudinal portion, and thereby narrowing the rows to create gaps therebetween.
In the Venetian type blind of U. S. Patent No. 6,792,996, the window covering includes a plurality of rows formed of slats. A control cord is secured to a longitudinal portion of each slat at a position distal of the proximal edge of the slat.
By raising the control cord, the slats are pivoted to open.
The control mechanism may also include a further feature. The frame in which the sliding module is mounted may also be designed to be extendable. For example, the lateral end at one side of the head rail where the control cord exits can be extended by the user to fit within the available space of the window frame. An additional length of the control cord may be included so as to allow the adjustment of the frame length without affecting the portion of the control cord mounted with the shade rows.
Brief Description of the Drs~wings In the drawings, FIGURE 1 is a perspective front view of an embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is utilized;
FIGURE 2 is a partial perspective rear view of the window covering of FIGURE 1;
FIGURE 3 is a side elevated cross sectional view of an embodiment of the control mechanism according to the present invention, where the control mechanism is shown in a first position;
FIGURE 3A is a perspective view of the sliding module of FIGURE
3 without the pinch roller;
FIGURE 3B is a bottom view of the sliding module of FIGURE 3A;
FIGURE 4 is a side elevated cross sectional view of the headrail of the window covering of FIGURE 1 showing an embodiment of the control mechanism according to the present invention, where the control mechanism is shown in a second position;
FIGURE 5 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism showing the track of the sliding module when the control mechanism is in the first position;
FIGURE 6 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 as it is moved from the first position to the second position;
FIGURE 7 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 with the sliding module in the second position;
FIGURE 8 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 with the sliding module as it is moved from the second position to the first position;
FIGURE 9 is a perspective partial rear view of an embodiment of a window covering with an alternate embodiment of the control mechanism of the present invention with the headrail partially cut away;
FIGURE 10 is a top down view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 9;
FIGURE 3A is a perspective view of the sliding module of FIGURE
3 without the pinch roller;
FIGURE 3B is a bottom view of the sliding module of FIGURE 3A;
FIGURE 4 is a side elevated cross sectional view of the headrail of the window covering of FIGURE 1 showing an embodiment of the control mechanism according to the present invention, where the control mechanism is shown in a second position;
FIGURE 5 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism showing the track of the sliding module when the control mechanism is in the first position;
FIGURE 6 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 as it is moved from the first position to the second position;
FIGURE 7 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 with the sliding module in the second position;
FIGURE 8 is a partial bottom view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 5 with the sliding module as it is moved from the second position to the first position;
FIGURE 9 is a perspective partial rear view of an embodiment of a window covering with an alternate embodiment of the control mechanism of the present invention with the headrail partially cut away;
FIGURE 10 is a top down view of the control mechanism of FIGURE 9;
FIGURE 11 is a partial perspective view of another embodiment of a row of a window covering comprising a slat suitable for use with the control mechanism of the present invention;
FIGURE 12 is a top view of an embodiment of the present invention including an extendable frame;
FIGURE 13 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIGURE
12;
FIGURE 14 is a cross sectional view of FIGURE 13 with the control module in an extended position;
FIGURE 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIGURE 14 with the pin disengaged from the detent member; and FIGURE 15A is FIGURE 1 S with the pin engaged with the detent member.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention The invention disclosed herein is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms. Shown in the drawings and described hereinbelow in detail are preferred embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood, however, that the present disclosure is an exemplification of the principles of the invention and does not limit the invention to the illustrated embodiments.
An example of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is suitable is shown in FIGURES 1 and 2. As shown, window covering 100 includes a headrail 102, a plurality of rows 104, and a control cord 106 that is secured to lower longitudinal portions 108 of the rows 104.
The control cord 106 extends through an opening 110 in the headrail 102, and through a control mechanism, which is discussed in greater detail below. The plurality of rows 104 are suspended from the headrail 102 by the control cord 106 which is 1 .. ,.. , i suspended from the headrail 102 through hole 105. The plurality of rows 104 are fi~rther suspended from the headrail 102 by a securement cord 112. The particular example of an embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is suitable for use shown here is disclosed in co-pending ~ application 10/427,829, which as discussed above is incorporated by reference. The control cord 106 is an opening member, which is secured to the lower longitudinal portions 108 of the rows. The control cord 106 may be secured to the lower longitudinal portion 108 through any means known in the art, but it is preferred that the lower longitudinal portion 108 include an anchor member 109 secured therewith.
The control cord 106 includes a plurality of loops 111 through which the anchor member 109 is guided. The narrowing of the rows of the window covering is accomplished by decreasing the distance between the upper and lower longitudinal portions of the rows by raising the opening member control cord 106.
Referring to FIGURES 3, 3A and 4, an embodiment of the control mechanism is explained. The control mechanism 200 is shown in a first position.
The control mechanism 200 includes a frame 202 which is mounted in the headrail (not shown). The control mechanism 200 may be permanently mounted or replaceably mounted in the headrail. Replaceable control mechanisms enable a person to replace broken or otherwise defective control mechanisms, or to exchange a control mechanism for a particular type of window covering with a different control mechanism. The frame 202 includes a first end 206 and a second end 208, as well as a first abutment stop, such as pinch roller 210 and a second abutment stop, such as arm member 212. Also included near the first end 206 is a second pinch roller 214.
A sliding module 216 is secured with a control cord 218 of the window covering. In this embodiment, a resilient latch member 220 is utilized to secure the cord 218 with the sliding module 216, however, any method of securing the cord 218 with the sliding module 216 can be used. In any case, the movement A
of the control cord 218 is intended to be synchronous with the movement of the sliding module 216. In other words, the sliding module 216 and the control cord 218 move together as a unit.
Some of the details of the sliding module are explained with reference to FIGURE 3A and 3B. The sliding module 216 includes rail members 217, a pair of catches 219, and a track 224. The pair of catches 219 are engaged with the latch member 220 (Fig. 3) and secure the latch member 220 to the sliding module 216. The pair of rail members 217, when the sliding module 216 is engaged with the frame 202 axially guide the sliding module along the frame 202.. The track 224 is suitable for guiding the movement of the arm member 212, which is pivotally secured at a fixed end 223, and includes a rounded distal end 226. In this embodiment, the track 224 is formed integrally with the sliding module 216.
However, it is possible that the track could be formed on the frame 202 itself.
The sliding module 216 is in sliding engagement with the first surface 222 of the frame 202 and is moveable between the first position shown in FIGURE
3 and the second position shown in FIGURE 4. The sliding module 216, if not otherwise engaged, is biased to move towards the first end 206 of the frame 202. In this example, the control cord 218 is connected to the various rows of a window covering as described above such that the weight of the rows pulls on the cord and urges the cord 218 and sliding module 216 towards the first end 206 until it reaches the first position, such as shown in FIGURE 3. In this first position, the movement of the sliding module 216 towards the first end 206 is limited or arrested by the interaction of pinch roller 210 and pinch roller 214. Cord 218 is further secured between pinch rollers 210 and 214 to provide additional support for the control cord. When the sliding module 216 is in this first position, the control cord 218 is extended such that the various light blocking elements, such as the plurality of rows 104 in FIGURES 1 and 2, are closed.
..
_g_ By exerting a pulling force as indicated by force arrow F, on the control cord 218, the sliding module is urged away from the first end 206 of the frame 202 and 'towards the second end 208 such as shown in FIGURE 4. By moving the sliding module 216 towards the second end 208, the control cord raises the various light blocking elements such that they open to permit light to pass through the window covering. As the pulling force indicated by force arrow F, is released, the sliding module 216 again moves toward the first end 206.
However, rather than moving back to the first end 206; the movement of the sliding module is arrested by a second abutment stop, such as arm member 212. In particular, the rounded distal end 226 engages a hub 228. Thus, the control module 200 is held in the second position such that the various light blocking elements of the window covering are maintained in an open position.
A more detailed explanation of the interaction between the sliding module 216 and the arm member 212 as the sliding module 216 moves from the first position to the second position and back to the first position is explained with reference to FIGURES 5 through 8.
Shown in FIGURE 5 is a bottom partial view of the sliding module Z 16 and the pivotal arm member 212 of the frame having a rounded distal end and a fixed end 223 when the sliding module 216 is in the first position.
Referring to FIGURE 6, when a force such as pulling force indicated by force arrow F, is exerted on cord 218 (FIG. 4) the sliding module moves towards the second end, such as indicated by direction arrow A. The rounded distal end 226 of arm member 212 is guided along the track 224 until it reaches a first concave portion 230 of track 224. The arm member 212 pivots slightly as the distal end 226 is guided along the first concave portion 230 such that distal end 226 is at least partially aligned with hub 228.
4 t h., Referring to FIGURE 7, as the pulling force is released, the sliding module 216, which as discussed is biased to move towards the first end of the frame, moves as indicated by direction arrow B. Rounded distal end 226 is then seated with the concave portion 232 of hub 228, and thereby limits or arrests the .
movement of the sliding module 216 towards the first end. As discussed, as the arm member 212 is guided along the first concave portion 230 of track 224, it pivots such than when the pulling force is released, the rounded distal end 226 is at least partially aligned with the concave portion 232 of hub 228. Thus, when as the sliding module 216 moves towards the first end, the rounded distal end 226 is captured within the concave portion 232 of hub 228. As discussed above, when the sliding module is in this second position, the light blocking elements of the window covering connected to the control cord are maintained in an open position.
To release the sliding module 216 from the arm member 212 so the sliding module can be moved from the second position to the first position, and more particularly in this embodiment, to disengage rounded distal end 226 from hub 228, a user again exerts a pulling force on cord 218. Accordingly, the sliding module again moves as indicated by direction arrow A towards the second end of the frame. Referring to FIGURE 8, a cusp portion 234 of the track 224 is positioned relative to the concave portion 232 of hub 228 such that the rounded distal end 226 of the arm member 212 is guided into a second concave portion of the track 224 and so the rounded distal end 226 clears hub 228. As the sliding module 216 is again moved towards the first position, the rounded distal end 226 of arm member 212 is guided along track 224 and returns to the first position as shown in FIGURE 5.
Thus far the control mechanism has been described as designed for controlling the raising and lowering of a single control cord. In some situations, the control mechanism may be provided in a headrail as a unit including a pair of sliding modules, such as shown in FIGURES 9 and 10. A control mechanism 300 is mounted within headrail 301 and comprises a single frame 302 that includes a pair of sliding modules 316 and 317. Of the sliding modules 316 and 317 are independently operable to control the raising or lowering of the cord secured thereto. This cord can be any positioning cord in a window covering. For example, reference is made to the window covering disclosed in co-pending application serial no.
101914,579 filed on August 9, 2004, and which is hereby incorporated by reference. In this embodiment a control cord, such as opening member 318, is secured with the plurality of rows 304 at lower longitudinal regions 320. Opening member 318 is also secured with sliding module 316. A securement member 319 is secured with the plurality of rows 304 at upper longitudinal regions 322, and is also secured with sliding module 317. The plurality of rows 304 may therefore be narrowed by either lowering securement member 319, by raising opening member 318, or some combination of the two that results in the narrowing of the rows.
Another embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention may be used is shown in FIGURE 11, which depicts a row of a Venetian blind type window covering. This Venetian blind type window covering is described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 6,792,996, which is incorporated herein by reference. The light blocking elements of the Venetian blind type window covering comprises a plurality of rows of slats, such as slat 400.
The slat comprises a first longitudinal portion 412 at a edge portion of the row 400, and a second longitudinal portion 426 formed within the main portion of the panel 410.
Each of the longitudinal portions 412 and 426 are operatively connected to control cords 402 and 404, respectively. In this embodiment, control cord 402 is restrainedly positioned with the longitudinal portion 412 by engaging anchor member 406 with control cord 402 by passing the anchor member 406 through a loop 408 formed therein. Control cord 404 is operatively connected with the second longitudinal portion 426 by engaging a fastener module 430 therewith, and engaging the fastener module 430 with an anchor member 416 through opening 414.
,. i Control cord 404 is secured with a control module (not shown) such as discussed above.
An additional feature of the present invention is shown with reference to FIGURES 12-15A. Since many window spaces come in nonstandard widths, it is desired to provide the ability to prepare stock widths of headrails that may be adjusted. The present invention provides for a frame that is extendable such that the lateral end at one side of the head rail where the control cord exits can be extended by the user to fit within the available space of the window frame. An additional length of the control cord may be included so as to allow the adjustment of the frame length without affecting the portion of the control cord mounted with the shade rows.
Referring to FIGURES 12 and 13, a control mechanism 500 includes a frame 502 which is mounted in the headrail 501. The frame 502 defines a track 504 including a central portion 506 and marginal portions 508 paralleling the central portion 506. In this example, a single sliding module 520 is included. Formed along the marginal portions 508 are a series of detent members 510 which are engageable with a tab member 512. In particular, by depressing tab member 512, a pin 514 moves out of engagement with a particular detent member. Preferably, the tab member 512 is formed of a resilient material, such as polyurethane, polypropylene, aluminum or the like. The frame 502 may then be moved laterally relative to the headrail 501 to a desired degree of extension, thereby adjusting the effective width of the window covering.
For example, as is shown in FIGURE 14; the entire control mechanism 500 is moved laterally with respect to the headrail 501 such that a portion of the frame 502 extends from the headrail 501, such as shown by reference arrow 530. The tab 512, which is secured with the head rail 501 by base 513, maintains the position with the control mechanism 500 and frame 502 through the ..
engagement of a detent member 510 and the pin 514. This interaction between the pin 514 and a detent member 510 is shown in FIGURES 15 and 15A. The pin 514, which in FIGURE 15 is disengaged from the detent S 10, and thereby allowing lateral movement of the control mechanism with respect to the headrail. In FIGURE 1 SA, the in 514 is engaged with detent S 10. Accordingly, the pin 514 and detent 510 prevent lateral movement of the control mechanism.
The foregoing descriptions are to be taken as illustrative, but not limiting. Still other variants within the spirit and scope of the present invention will readily present themselves to those skilled in the art.
1 ~. ... .. ...... ~ ,
FIGURE 12 is a top view of an embodiment of the present invention including an extendable frame;
FIGURE 13 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIGURE
12;
FIGURE 14 is a cross sectional view of FIGURE 13 with the control module in an extended position;
FIGURE 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIGURE 14 with the pin disengaged from the detent member; and FIGURE 15A is FIGURE 1 S with the pin engaged with the detent member.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention The invention disclosed herein is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms. Shown in the drawings and described hereinbelow in detail are preferred embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood, however, that the present disclosure is an exemplification of the principles of the invention and does not limit the invention to the illustrated embodiments.
An example of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is suitable is shown in FIGURES 1 and 2. As shown, window covering 100 includes a headrail 102, a plurality of rows 104, and a control cord 106 that is secured to lower longitudinal portions 108 of the rows 104.
The control cord 106 extends through an opening 110 in the headrail 102, and through a control mechanism, which is discussed in greater detail below. The plurality of rows 104 are suspended from the headrail 102 by the control cord 106 which is 1 .. ,.. , i suspended from the headrail 102 through hole 105. The plurality of rows 104 are fi~rther suspended from the headrail 102 by a securement cord 112. The particular example of an embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention is suitable for use shown here is disclosed in co-pending ~ application 10/427,829, which as discussed above is incorporated by reference. The control cord 106 is an opening member, which is secured to the lower longitudinal portions 108 of the rows. The control cord 106 may be secured to the lower longitudinal portion 108 through any means known in the art, but it is preferred that the lower longitudinal portion 108 include an anchor member 109 secured therewith.
The control cord 106 includes a plurality of loops 111 through which the anchor member 109 is guided. The narrowing of the rows of the window covering is accomplished by decreasing the distance between the upper and lower longitudinal portions of the rows by raising the opening member control cord 106.
Referring to FIGURES 3, 3A and 4, an embodiment of the control mechanism is explained. The control mechanism 200 is shown in a first position.
The control mechanism 200 includes a frame 202 which is mounted in the headrail (not shown). The control mechanism 200 may be permanently mounted or replaceably mounted in the headrail. Replaceable control mechanisms enable a person to replace broken or otherwise defective control mechanisms, or to exchange a control mechanism for a particular type of window covering with a different control mechanism. The frame 202 includes a first end 206 and a second end 208, as well as a first abutment stop, such as pinch roller 210 and a second abutment stop, such as arm member 212. Also included near the first end 206 is a second pinch roller 214.
A sliding module 216 is secured with a control cord 218 of the window covering. In this embodiment, a resilient latch member 220 is utilized to secure the cord 218 with the sliding module 216, however, any method of securing the cord 218 with the sliding module 216 can be used. In any case, the movement A
of the control cord 218 is intended to be synchronous with the movement of the sliding module 216. In other words, the sliding module 216 and the control cord 218 move together as a unit.
Some of the details of the sliding module are explained with reference to FIGURE 3A and 3B. The sliding module 216 includes rail members 217, a pair of catches 219, and a track 224. The pair of catches 219 are engaged with the latch member 220 (Fig. 3) and secure the latch member 220 to the sliding module 216. The pair of rail members 217, when the sliding module 216 is engaged with the frame 202 axially guide the sliding module along the frame 202.. The track 224 is suitable for guiding the movement of the arm member 212, which is pivotally secured at a fixed end 223, and includes a rounded distal end 226. In this embodiment, the track 224 is formed integrally with the sliding module 216.
However, it is possible that the track could be formed on the frame 202 itself.
The sliding module 216 is in sliding engagement with the first surface 222 of the frame 202 and is moveable between the first position shown in FIGURE
3 and the second position shown in FIGURE 4. The sliding module 216, if not otherwise engaged, is biased to move towards the first end 206 of the frame 202. In this example, the control cord 218 is connected to the various rows of a window covering as described above such that the weight of the rows pulls on the cord and urges the cord 218 and sliding module 216 towards the first end 206 until it reaches the first position, such as shown in FIGURE 3. In this first position, the movement of the sliding module 216 towards the first end 206 is limited or arrested by the interaction of pinch roller 210 and pinch roller 214. Cord 218 is further secured between pinch rollers 210 and 214 to provide additional support for the control cord. When the sliding module 216 is in this first position, the control cord 218 is extended such that the various light blocking elements, such as the plurality of rows 104 in FIGURES 1 and 2, are closed.
..
_g_ By exerting a pulling force as indicated by force arrow F, on the control cord 218, the sliding module is urged away from the first end 206 of the frame 202 and 'towards the second end 208 such as shown in FIGURE 4. By moving the sliding module 216 towards the second end 208, the control cord raises the various light blocking elements such that they open to permit light to pass through the window covering. As the pulling force indicated by force arrow F, is released, the sliding module 216 again moves toward the first end 206.
However, rather than moving back to the first end 206; the movement of the sliding module is arrested by a second abutment stop, such as arm member 212. In particular, the rounded distal end 226 engages a hub 228. Thus, the control module 200 is held in the second position such that the various light blocking elements of the window covering are maintained in an open position.
A more detailed explanation of the interaction between the sliding module 216 and the arm member 212 as the sliding module 216 moves from the first position to the second position and back to the first position is explained with reference to FIGURES 5 through 8.
Shown in FIGURE 5 is a bottom partial view of the sliding module Z 16 and the pivotal arm member 212 of the frame having a rounded distal end and a fixed end 223 when the sliding module 216 is in the first position.
Referring to FIGURE 6, when a force such as pulling force indicated by force arrow F, is exerted on cord 218 (FIG. 4) the sliding module moves towards the second end, such as indicated by direction arrow A. The rounded distal end 226 of arm member 212 is guided along the track 224 until it reaches a first concave portion 230 of track 224. The arm member 212 pivots slightly as the distal end 226 is guided along the first concave portion 230 such that distal end 226 is at least partially aligned with hub 228.
4 t h., Referring to FIGURE 7, as the pulling force is released, the sliding module 216, which as discussed is biased to move towards the first end of the frame, moves as indicated by direction arrow B. Rounded distal end 226 is then seated with the concave portion 232 of hub 228, and thereby limits or arrests the .
movement of the sliding module 216 towards the first end. As discussed, as the arm member 212 is guided along the first concave portion 230 of track 224, it pivots such than when the pulling force is released, the rounded distal end 226 is at least partially aligned with the concave portion 232 of hub 228. Thus, when as the sliding module 216 moves towards the first end, the rounded distal end 226 is captured within the concave portion 232 of hub 228. As discussed above, when the sliding module is in this second position, the light blocking elements of the window covering connected to the control cord are maintained in an open position.
To release the sliding module 216 from the arm member 212 so the sliding module can be moved from the second position to the first position, and more particularly in this embodiment, to disengage rounded distal end 226 from hub 228, a user again exerts a pulling force on cord 218. Accordingly, the sliding module again moves as indicated by direction arrow A towards the second end of the frame. Referring to FIGURE 8, a cusp portion 234 of the track 224 is positioned relative to the concave portion 232 of hub 228 such that the rounded distal end 226 of the arm member 212 is guided into a second concave portion of the track 224 and so the rounded distal end 226 clears hub 228. As the sliding module 216 is again moved towards the first position, the rounded distal end 226 of arm member 212 is guided along track 224 and returns to the first position as shown in FIGURE 5.
Thus far the control mechanism has been described as designed for controlling the raising and lowering of a single control cord. In some situations, the control mechanism may be provided in a headrail as a unit including a pair of sliding modules, such as shown in FIGURES 9 and 10. A control mechanism 300 is mounted within headrail 301 and comprises a single frame 302 that includes a pair of sliding modules 316 and 317. Of the sliding modules 316 and 317 are independently operable to control the raising or lowering of the cord secured thereto. This cord can be any positioning cord in a window covering. For example, reference is made to the window covering disclosed in co-pending application serial no.
101914,579 filed on August 9, 2004, and which is hereby incorporated by reference. In this embodiment a control cord, such as opening member 318, is secured with the plurality of rows 304 at lower longitudinal regions 320. Opening member 318 is also secured with sliding module 316. A securement member 319 is secured with the plurality of rows 304 at upper longitudinal regions 322, and is also secured with sliding module 317. The plurality of rows 304 may therefore be narrowed by either lowering securement member 319, by raising opening member 318, or some combination of the two that results in the narrowing of the rows.
Another embodiment of a window covering with which the control mechanism of the present invention may be used is shown in FIGURE 11, which depicts a row of a Venetian blind type window covering. This Venetian blind type window covering is described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 6,792,996, which is incorporated herein by reference. The light blocking elements of the Venetian blind type window covering comprises a plurality of rows of slats, such as slat 400.
The slat comprises a first longitudinal portion 412 at a edge portion of the row 400, and a second longitudinal portion 426 formed within the main portion of the panel 410.
Each of the longitudinal portions 412 and 426 are operatively connected to control cords 402 and 404, respectively. In this embodiment, control cord 402 is restrainedly positioned with the longitudinal portion 412 by engaging anchor member 406 with control cord 402 by passing the anchor member 406 through a loop 408 formed therein. Control cord 404 is operatively connected with the second longitudinal portion 426 by engaging a fastener module 430 therewith, and engaging the fastener module 430 with an anchor member 416 through opening 414.
,. i Control cord 404 is secured with a control module (not shown) such as discussed above.
An additional feature of the present invention is shown with reference to FIGURES 12-15A. Since many window spaces come in nonstandard widths, it is desired to provide the ability to prepare stock widths of headrails that may be adjusted. The present invention provides for a frame that is extendable such that the lateral end at one side of the head rail where the control cord exits can be extended by the user to fit within the available space of the window frame. An additional length of the control cord may be included so as to allow the adjustment of the frame length without affecting the portion of the control cord mounted with the shade rows.
Referring to FIGURES 12 and 13, a control mechanism 500 includes a frame 502 which is mounted in the headrail 501. The frame 502 defines a track 504 including a central portion 506 and marginal portions 508 paralleling the central portion 506. In this example, a single sliding module 520 is included. Formed along the marginal portions 508 are a series of detent members 510 which are engageable with a tab member 512. In particular, by depressing tab member 512, a pin 514 moves out of engagement with a particular detent member. Preferably, the tab member 512 is formed of a resilient material, such as polyurethane, polypropylene, aluminum or the like. The frame 502 may then be moved laterally relative to the headrail 501 to a desired degree of extension, thereby adjusting the effective width of the window covering.
For example, as is shown in FIGURE 14; the entire control mechanism 500 is moved laterally with respect to the headrail 501 such that a portion of the frame 502 extends from the headrail 501, such as shown by reference arrow 530. The tab 512, which is secured with the head rail 501 by base 513, maintains the position with the control mechanism 500 and frame 502 through the ..
engagement of a detent member 510 and the pin 514. This interaction between the pin 514 and a detent member 510 is shown in FIGURES 15 and 15A. The pin 514, which in FIGURE 15 is disengaged from the detent S 10, and thereby allowing lateral movement of the control mechanism with respect to the headrail. In FIGURE 1 SA, the in 514 is engaged with detent S 10. Accordingly, the pin 514 and detent 510 prevent lateral movement of the control mechanism.
The foregoing descriptions are to be taken as illustrative, but not limiting. Still other variants within the spirit and scope of the present invention will readily present themselves to those skilled in the art.
1 ~. ... .. ...... ~ ,
Claims (20)
1. A control mechanism for a window covering, the window covering including at least one control cord operatively connected to at least one light blocking element, the control mechanism comprising:
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with a support structure, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position.
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with a support structure, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position.
2. The control mechanism of claim 1 wherein the first abutment stop comprises a pinch roller.
3. The control mechanism of claim 1, wherein the sliding module includes a guiding track.
4. The control mechanism of claim 3, wherein the second abutment stop comprises an arm member engageable with the guiding track of the sliding module.
5. The control mechanism of claim 4, wherein the arm member is pivotally engaged with the frame and includes a rounded distal end, and the sliding module defines a hub having a concave portion, and the rounded distal end is seated with the concave portion when the sliding module is in the second position.
6. The control mechanism of claim 1 wherein the light blocking element comprises a plurality of openable rows and the at least one control cord is operatively connected to the plurality of openable rows.
7. The control mechanism of claim 6 wherein when the sliding module is in the second position the plurality of openable rows are opened, and when the sliding module is in the first position the plurality of openable rows are closed.
8. The control mechanism of claim 1, wherein the support structure is a headrail for a window covering.
9. The control mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first abutment stop is closer to the first end of the frame than the second abutment stop, and the second abutment stop is closer to the second end of the frame than the first abutment stop.
10. A method of opening and closing a light blocking element of a window covering with a control mechanism, the light blocking element comprising a plurality of rows suspended from at least one control cord, the control mechanism comprising:
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with a support structure, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being slidingly engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position;
the method comprising:
opening the plurality of rows by urging the sliding module away from the first end of the frame and engaging the sliding module with the second abutment stop such that the sliding module is in the second position;
closing the plurality of rows by causing the sliding module to release the second abutment stop and permitting the sliding module to move toward the first end of the frame such that the sliding module engages the first abutment stop and such that the sliding module is in the first position.
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with a support structure, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being slidingly engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position;
the method comprising:
opening the plurality of rows by urging the sliding module away from the first end of the frame and engaging the sliding module with the second abutment stop such that the sliding module is in the second position;
closing the plurality of rows by causing the sliding module to release the second abutment stop and permitting the sliding module to move toward the first end of the frame such that the sliding module engages the first abutment stop and such that the sliding module is in the first position.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein first abutment stop comprises a pinch roller and the step of closing of the plurality of rows further includes causing the pinch roller to frictionally engage the control cord.
12. A window covering comprising:
a control mechanism;
a headrail;
a light blocking element comprising a plurality of openable rows;
at least one control cord engaged with the control mechanism and connecting the headrail and the light blocking element, such that the light blocking element is suspended from the headrail; and the control mechanism comprising:
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with the headrail, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being slidingly engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position
a control mechanism;
a headrail;
a light blocking element comprising a plurality of openable rows;
at least one control cord engaged with the control mechanism and connecting the headrail and the light blocking element, such that the light blocking element is suspended from the headrail; and the control mechanism comprising:
a frame having a first end and a second end, the frame being mountable with the headrail, the frame further including a first abutment stop and a second abutment stop;
a sliding module secured with the control cord of the window covering, the sliding module also being slidingly engaged with a first surface of the frame and moveable between a first position and a second position, the sliding module being biased toward the first end of the frame, and movement of the cord and sliding module being synchronous with one another;
the first abutment stop arresting movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is at the first position; and the second abutment stop arresting the movement of the sliding module toward the first end of the frame when the sliding module is in the second position
13. The window covering of claim 12 wherein the first abutment stop comprises a pinch roller.
14. The window covering of claim 12 wherein the sliding module includes a guiding track and the second abutment stop comprises an arm member engageable with the guiding track of the sliding module.
15. The window covering of claim 13, the arm member including a rounded distal member and the sliding module defines hub having a concave portion, and the rounded distal end portion is seated with the concave portion when the sliding module is in the second position
16. The window covering of claim 12 wherein when the sliding module is in the second position the plurality of openable rows are opened, and when the sliding module is in the first position the plurality of openable rows are closed.
17. The window covering of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of openable rows comprises a first longitudinal region and a second longitudinal region, the control cord being restrainedly positioned with the second longitudinal region such that moving the sliding module from the first position to the second position causes each of the plurality of openable rows to open.
18. The window covering of claim 17, wherein each of the plurality of rows is a collapsible panel, and the first longitudinal region is an upper edge portion and the second longitudinal region is a lower edge portion, and the opening of the panel includes moving the second longitudinal region toward the upper longitudinal region and narrowing the collapsible panel.
19. The window covering of claim 17, wherein each of the plurality of openable rows is a slat, and the first longitudinal region is a proximal edge portion and the second longitudinal region is positioned distally of the proximal edge portion, and the opening of the slat includes raising the second longitudinal region such that the slat pivots to open.
20. The window covering of claim 12, wherein the first abutment stop is closer to the first end of the frame than the second abutment stop, and the second abutment stop is closer to the second end of the frame than the first abutment stop
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US8238505A | 2005-03-17 | 2005-03-17 | |
| US11/082,385 | 2005-03-17 |
Publications (1)
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|---|---|
| CA2511685A1 true CA2511685A1 (en) | 2006-09-17 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2511685 Abandoned CA2511685A1 (en) | 2005-03-17 | 2005-07-08 | Control mechanism for a window covering |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CN (1) | CN1834399A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2511685A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE102005031878A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2883324A1 (en) |
| NL (1) | NL1029614C2 (en) |
| TW (1) | TW200634223A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2006101505A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7571756B2 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2009-08-11 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | System for operating top down/bottom up covering for architectural openings |
| DE202007015232U1 (en) | 2007-11-02 | 2008-01-31 | Lienert, Achim | folding curtain |
| CN105557394B (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2018-10-09 | 任进礼 | A kind of greenhouse facade ventilating and thermal insulating device |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4180118A (en) * | 1978-07-13 | 1979-12-25 | Hunter Douglas International N.V. | Cord lock mechanism for venetian blind |
| JP2912433B2 (en) * | 1990-09-04 | 1999-06-28 | 株式会社ニフコ | In-vehicle latch device |
| US5623982A (en) * | 1994-12-09 | 1997-04-29 | Kabushiki Kaisha Nichibei | Pull cord stopper device for use in a blind apparatus |
| US6932138B2 (en) * | 2003-05-01 | 2005-08-23 | Teh Yor Co., Ltd. | Roman style shade |
-
2005
- 2005-06-30 WO PCT/US2005/023752 patent/WO2006101505A1/en active Application Filing
- 2005-07-07 DE DE200510031878 patent/DE102005031878A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2005-07-08 CA CA 2511685 patent/CA2511685A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-07-26 NL NL1029614A patent/NL1029614C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2005-07-27 FR FR0508021A patent/FR2883324A1/en active Pending
- 2005-10-14 TW TW094136078A patent/TW200634223A/en unknown
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2006
- 2006-01-13 CN CNA2006100063400A patent/CN1834399A/en active Pending
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|---|---|
| DE102005031878A1 (en) | 2006-09-21 |
| TW200634223A (en) | 2006-10-01 |
| NL1029614C2 (en) | 2006-10-10 |
| CN1834399A (en) | 2006-09-20 |
| WO2006101505A1 (en) | 2006-09-28 |
| FR2883324A1 (en) | 2006-09-22 |
| NL1029614A1 (en) | 2006-09-20 |
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