CA3178817A1 - Operating device for a window covering - Google Patents

Abstract

Described are various embodiments of an operating device for a window covering such as a Roman blind, pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind, comprising at least one carrying structure, at least one axially rotatable cord spool configured for winding up and unwinding at least one pull cord thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering, at least one drive shaft connected to the at least one cord spool, at least one pull cord connected to the drive shaft, at least one ladder cord configured for supporting at least part of the window covering. The device is characterized in that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted.

Description

OPERATING DEVICE FOR A WINDOW COVERING
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operating device for a window covering and, in particular, to an operating device for a window covering such as a Roman blind, pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind. The instant disclosure also relates to such operating device and a window covering assembly.
BACKGROUND

[0002] There are national and international regulations regarding the safety of window coverings in place in order to prevent injuries to people, and in particular children. The aim of these so-called child-safety regulations is, inter alia, to prevent children from suffocating as a result of becoming trapped in the loop of a cord or a chain. A known measure to meet these is the provision of a window covering in which the operating device is provided with a drive wheel provided with a cord or chain which is removably accommodated in a housing of the operating device. If excessive force is applied to the cord or the chain, and thus to the drive wheel, the cord or the chain will be removed from the housing, together with the drive wheel. By means of such a device, it is possible to prevent a child from becoming entangled with the cord and suffering serious injuries as a result.
Another example to meet the child-safety regulation is by providing a cordless operating device for window shades or window blinds. Such cordless devices or systems can typically be operated manually controlled lifting and lowering of a bottom rail of the window shade or blind or via electrically controlled lifting and lowering of said window shade. However, also the cordless operating device could still have a cord construction configured to retain the window blind, for example a Roman blind or alternatively a honeyflex blind or vertical sheer.

[0003] This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art or forms part of the general common knowledge in the relevant art.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 SUMMARY

[0004] The following presents a simplified summary of the general inventive concept(s) described herein to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to restrict key or critical elements of embodiments of the disclosure or to delineate their scope beyond that which is explicitly or implicitly described by the following description and claims.

[0005] A need exists for an operating device for a window covering that overcomes some of the drawbacks of known devices, or at least, provides a useful alternative thereto.
.. Some aspects of this disclosure provide examples of such an improved operating device for a relatively child-safe window covering or at least to provide an alternative to the known operating device for (cordless) window coverings.

[0006] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided an operating device for a window covering such as a Roman blind, pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind, .. comprising: at least one carrying structure;
- at least one pull cord connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering, wherein operating the pull cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure;
- at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering;
- at least one ladder cord configured for supporting at least part of the window covering;
wherein the operating device comprises a plurality of blocking elements, wherein at least one blocking element and preferably each blocking element at least engages or is attached to at least one pull cord such that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted.

[0007] In one aspect, there is provided an operating device for a window covering such as a horizontal blind which comprises at least one carrying structure and at least one pull cord connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering. Operating the pull Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure. There is also provided at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering and at least one ladder cord configured for supporting at least part of the window covering. The operating device also comprises a plurality of blocking elements, wherein at least one blocking element and preferably each blocking element is at least engaged or is attached to at least one pull cord such that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted.

[0008] In some embodiments, the multiple blocking elements are positioned at a distance from another over the length of the pull cord.

[0009] In some embodiments, two adjacent blocking elements enclose at least one rung of the ladder cord.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element is positioned between two adjacent rungs of the ladder cord.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element encloses at least part of at least one ladder cord, in particular at least part of a rung of the ladder cord.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element is attached to at least one pull cord and to at least one ladder cord, in particular to at least one rung of the ladder cord.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially flexible. In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially rigid.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element pierces through at least one pull cord.

[0015] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element encloses at least one pull cord.

[0016] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element is made of the same material as the ladder cord and/or the pull cord.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element forms an integral part of the pull cord.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

[0018] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking elements extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord.

[0019] In some embodiments, the operating device further comprises at least one sleeve configured to at least partially enclose the at least one pull cord.

[0020] In some embodiments, the operating device further comprises at least one connector for connecting at least one sleeve to the carrying structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, the connector is at least partially resilient.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least part of the connector comprises a spring.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least part of the connector is positioned substantially below at least one drive shaft.

[0024] In another aspect, there is provided an operating device for a window covering such as a horizontal blind which comprises at least one carrying structure and at least one pull cord directly or indirectly connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering, wherein operating the pull cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure. There is also provided at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering. The operating device further comprises a plurality of blocking elements, positioned along the length of the pull cord, in which the blocking elements, and preferably each blocking element, cooperate between at least part of the pull cord and part of the window covering, such that movement of the pull cord relative to the window covering is restricted.

[0025] In some embodiments, multiple blocking elements are positioned at a distance from another over the length of the pull cord.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially flexible.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially rigid.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

[0028] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking element pierces through at least one pull cord.

[0029] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element encloses at least one pull cord.

[0030] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element is made of the same material as the pull cord.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least one blocking element forms integral part of the pull cord.

[0032] In some embodiments, at least part of at least one blocking elements extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord.

[0033] In some embodiments, the operating device further comprises at least one sleeve configured to at least partially enclose the at least one pull cord.

[0034] In some embodiments, the operating device further comprises at least one connector for connecting at least one sleeve to the carrying structure.

[0035] In some embodiments, the connector is at least partially resilient.

[0036] In some embodiments, at least part of the connector comprises a spring.

[0037] In some embodiments, at least part of the connector is positioned substantially below at least one drive shaft.

[0038] In yet another aspect, there is provided an assembly of a window covering, in particular a horizontal blind, and at least one operating device as described herein.

[0039] In some embodiments of the assembly, at least one blocking element is attached to at least part of the window covering.

[0040] In some embodiments of the assembly, at least one blocking element is positioned a lower part of a slat or window covering part of the window covering.

[0041] Other aspects, features and/or advantages will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of specific embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0042] Several embodiments of the present disclosure will be provided, by way of examples only, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0043] Figures la and lb show schematic perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of an operating device according to the instant disclosure;

[0044] Figure 2 shows an expanded perspective view of a first exemplary blocking element embodiment for use in an operating device of Figures la and lb according to the instant disclosure;

[0045] Figures 3a and 3b show an expanded perspective view of second exemplary blocking element embodiment for use in an operating device of Figures la and lb according to the instant disclosure; and

[0046] Figure 4 shows an expanded perspective view detailing part of an exemplary operating device of Figures la and lb according to instant disclosure.

[0047] Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating understanding of the various presently disclosed embodiments. Also, common, but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Various implementations and aspects of the specification will be described with reference to details discussed below. The following description and drawings are illustrative of the specification and are not to be construed as limiting the specification.
Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of various implementations of the present specification. However, in certain instances, well-known or Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 conventional details are not described in order to provide a concise discussion of implementations of the present specification.

[0049] Various devices will be described below to provide examples of the device disclosed herein. No device n described below limits any claimed device and any claimed devices may cover devices that differ from those described below. The claimed device described below or to features common to multiple or all of the devices described below.
It is possible that a device described below is not an implementation of any claimed subject matter.

[0050] Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the relevant arts that the devices described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the implementations described herein.

[0051] In this specification, elements may be described as "configured to"
perform one or more functions or "configured for" such functions. In general, an element that is configured to perform or configured for performing a function is enabled to perform the function, or is suitable for performing the function, or is adapted to perform the function, or is operable to perform the function, or is otherwise capable of performing the function.

[0052] It is understood that for the purpose of this specification, language of "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "one or more of X, Y and Z" may be construed as X
only, Y only, Z only, or any combination of two or more items X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XY, YZ, ZZ, and the like). Similar logic may be applied for two or more items in any occurrence of "at least one ..." and "one or more..." language.

[0053] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

[0054] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
The phrase "in one of the embodiments" or "in at least one of the various embodiments" as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, though it may. Furthermore, the phrase "in another embodiment" or "in some embodiments" as used herein does not necessarily refer to a different embodiment, although it may. Thus, as described below, various embodiments may be readily combined, without departing from the scope or spirit of the innovations disclosed herein.

[0055] In addition, as used herein, the term "or" is an inclusive "or"
operator, and is equivalent to the term "and/or," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "based on" is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional factors not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification, the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" include plural references. The meaning of "in"
includes "in" and "on."

[0056] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the"
include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0057] The term "comprising" as used herein will be understood to mean that the list following is non-exhaustive and may or may not include any other additional suitable items, for example one or more further feature(s), component(s) and/or element(s) as appropriate.

[0058] The operating device according to the instant disclosure may have several benefits over conventional operating devices for window coverings such as a Roman blind, pleated blind, horizontal blind, honeyflex blind and/or vertical sheer. The application of a plurality of blocking elements, wherein at least one blocking element and preferably each blocking element at least engages or is attached to at least one pull cord such that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted prevents that the pull cord could get loosened thereby forming a loop. The formation of loops in the pull cord is highly undesirable as this could lead to strangulation danger for a child. Due to the blocking element(s) engaging and/or being attached to the at least one pull cord, the degree of Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 freedom of the pull cord can be limited. The blocking elements are in particular configured to restrict the movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord and/or relative to the window covering. It is the pull cord who forms the biggest danger since this typically relatively long cord extends over the entire length of the window covering.
The ladder cord benefits of a ladder configuration wherein the ladder beams and ladder rungs and the cooperation with the window covering prevent the ladder cord from loop formation.

[0059] The operating device according to the instant disclosure could also be referred to as an operating mechanism. When it is referred to a pull cord also a lift string or pull string could be mentioned. The ladder cord typically comprises a plurality of rungs which are positioned between two ladder beams. The ladder cord is typically substantially flexible. The pull cord is in particular connected to the drive shaft and configured for driving and thereby lowering and/or raising the window covering. The ladder cord, or ladder string, is in particular configured to support the window covering, and in particular the slats and/or window covering parts thereof. The ladder cord, or ladder string, can also be configured to allow slats or window covering parts of the window covering to rotate to let in light. The carrying structure according to the instant disclosure is in particular configured to accommodate at least part of the further components of the operating device, such as the drive shaft and/or drive wheels, if applied. When it is referred to carrying structure, also a housing could also be meant.

[0060] The operating device according to the instant disclosure could optionally comprise at least one axially rotatable cord spool configured for lowering and raising, or winding up and unwinding, at least one pull cord thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering and in particular a bottom rail thereof. For such embodiment, the operating device preferably comprises at least one drive shaft connected to the at least one cord spool. It is also conceivable that the lifting element comprises at least one axially rotatable cord spool configured for lowering and raising (or winding up and unwinding) at least one pull cord thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering and preferably at least one drive shaft connected to the at least one cord spool. Alternatively, the lifting element may be configured to keep the pull cord in an unrolled configuration. The lifting element could also be referred to as winding mechanism.

Date Regue/Date Received 2022-10-07

[0061] The function of the blocking elements is to restrict movement of the pull cord in particular relative to the ladder cord and thus to prevent loop forming of the pull cord. It is in particular a goal to prevent loop formation wherein a loop larger than 30 cm, in particular larger than 20 cm and more in particular larger than 15 cm can be formed. It is in particular a goal to prevent loop formation wherein a loop larger than is 22 cm is formed.
In order to ensure that loop formation is prevented over the entire length of the pull cord, it is preferred that at least two blocking elements are positioned at a predetermined distance from another over the length of the pull cord. Preferably, multiple blocking elements are positioned at a (predetermined) distance from another over the length of the pull cord. In this way, the plurality of blocking elements could be strategically positioned thereby ensuring that the degree of freedom of at least the pull cord is limited over different sections of said pull cord.

[0062] The ladder cord typically comprises a plurality of rungs which are positioned between two ladder beams. In a preferred embodiment, the device is configured such that two adjacent blocking elements enclose at least one rung of the ladder cord.
It is also conceivable that two adjacent blocking elements enclose multiple rungs of the ladder cord.
Depending on the further dimensions of the ladder cord and the window covering as such, it is for example imaginable that a blocking element is positioned at every other rungs of the ladder cord. It is for example also conceivable that at least one blocking element is positioned between two adjacent rungs of the ladder cord. In this way a relatively stable configuration is obtained wherein the pull cord is restricted substantially within the distance between the rungs.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, at least one blocking element encloses at least part of at least one ladder cord, in particular at least part of a rung of the ladder cord. In this way, a co-action between the blocking element(s) and the ladder cord can be obtained. It is preferred that the blocking element encloses the rung instead of another part of the ladder cord, since enclosing the rung would be beneficial for the overall balance and/or stability of the configuration. The ladder cord could positively contribute to the positioning of the blocking element with respect to the pull cord. This is also beneficial as the ladder cord could also contribute to limiting the degree of freedom of the pull cord. It is in particular Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 beneficial if at least one blocking element is attached to at least one pull cord and to at least one ladder cord, in particular to at least one rung of the ladder cord. In this way, the blocking element forms a fixation point for the pull cord and the ladder cord.
This may not only lead to the prevention of loop formation, but may also positively contribute to a more stable configuration of the window covering as such.

[0064] Preferably, at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially flexible.
Hence, it is for example conceivable that at least part of the blocking element is formed by a wire. It is also conceivable that the blocking element is a knotted wire.
Hence, it is conceivable that the blocking element is a knotted wire which is attached to the pull cord and/or wherein the knotted wire encloses a rung of the ladder cord. It is imaginable that the knotted wire is not fixated to the ladder cord, and in particular the rung thereof, but that the knotted wire could freely slide over the rung of the ladder cord. It is preferred that the knotted wire is fixated with respect to the pull cord. It is also imaginable that at least one knotted wire, or multiple knotted wires are formed out of the pull cord.
Hence, the blocking elements could form integral part of the pull cord. This results in an embodiment where there may not be a need for extra component and wherein the complexity can be reduced.

[0065] It is also imaginable that at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially rigid. At least one blocking element could for example be a button or button-like. At least one blocking element could for example be substantially flat.
It is also possible that at least part of at least one blocking element follows the shape of at least part of the window covering. At least part of the blocking element could be substantially complementary to at least part of the window covering. In particular in case a relatively rigid window covering, such as wood and/or a rigid polymer, is applied, it is beneficial if the blocking element is configured to engage the window covering. A
complementary shape could be beneficial for the stability of the overall configuration.

[0066] The shape of the blocking element could be adjusted based upon the window covering as applied and/or the types of pull cord and ladder cord as applied.
Hence, it is conceivable that at least one blocking element is substantially round, square, oval, triangular, rectangular and/or a free form. Optionally, at least one blocking element is Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 substantially flat. The blocking element preferably comprises at least one receiving space and/or through hole for receiving at least part of the pull cord.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the blocking element is configured such that at least part of at least one blocking element pierces through at least one pull cord.
In this way a decent connection and/or cooperation between the blocking element and the pull cord can be obtained. Preferably the part of the blocking element which pierces the pull cord has a smaller width than the width of the pull cord. Optionally, at least one blocking element could be made of the same material as the ladder cord and/or the pull cord. It is also conceivable that at least one blocking element forms integral part of the pull cord. Hence, at least some of the blocking elements could be present in the form of knots made out of the pull cord. It is also conceivable that the pull cord comprises local bulges, nodes and/or protrusions which form blocking elements.

[0068] Preferably at least one blocking element substantially encloses at least one pull cord. It could herewith be prevented that the blocking element and the pull cord would get detached.

[0069] It is conceivable that the window covering forms part of the device according to the instant disclosure. In a possible embodiment, at least one blocking element is attached to at least part of the window covering. In this manner, the blocking element could effectively restrict movement of the pull cord at a predetermined position. It is beneficial if the pull cord is restricted relative to the window covering as this could lead to a more controlled raising and lowering of the window covering.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, at least part of at least one blocking elements extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord.
The blocking element could for example extend radially from the pull cord.

[0071] The device could also comprise at least one sleeve configured to at least partially enclose at least one pull cord. The use of a sleeve provides a protective function for the pull cord. It can also be said that at least one pull cord comprises a sleeve. The sleeve could for example be a knitted sock. The sleeve could also positively contribute to Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 the movement restriction of the pull cord with respect to the ladder cord. In case a sleeve is applied, the device according to the instant disclosure preferably comprises at least one connector for connecting at least one sleeve to the carrying structure.
Preferably, the connector is at least partially resilient. It is also conceivable that at least part of the connector is resilient. At least part of the connector could for example comprise a spring.
The spring could for example be a helical spring which preferably extends in the (vertical and/or longitudinal) direction of the pull cord. The connector could also be formed by a spring. Preferably, at least part of the connector is positioned substantially below at least one drive shaft. In this way could the connector positively contribute to accurate outlining of the sleeve with respect to the pull cord.

[0072] The instant disclosure also relates to an operating device for a window covering such as a horizontal blind, comprising at least one carrying structure, at least one pull cord directly or indirectly connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering, wherein operating the pull cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure, at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering, wherein the operating device comprises a plurality of blocking elements, positioned along the length of the pull cord, which blocking elements, preferably each blocking element, cooperate between at least part of the pull cord and part of the window covering, such that movement of the pull cord relative to the window covering is restricted. Hence, it is conceivable that the blocking elements are applied in an embodiment which does not comprise a ladder cord.
The same technical effect can be reached as the function of the blocking elements is to prevent movement of the pull cord relative to the window covering. It is in particular a goal to prevent loop formation wherein a loop larger than 30 cm, in particular larger than 20 cm and more in particular larger than 15 cm can be formed. It is in particular a goal to prevent loop formation wherein a loop larger than is 22 cm is formed. Any of the embodiments described above can apply to the embodiment without a ladder cord too.

[0073] The instant disclosure also relates to an assembly of a window covering, in particular a Roman blind, a pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind, and at least one Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 operating device according to the instant disclosure. Any of the described embodiments of the operating device according to the instant disclosure could be applied.

[0074] The window covering could also be a honeyflex blind and/or a vertical sheer.
The window covering could for comprise a lower beam and/or an upper beam. Said beams could positively contribute to more controlled operation of the window blind.
In a possible embodiment, at least one blocking element is attached to at least part of the window covering. In this manner, the blocking element could effectively restrict movement of the pull cord at a predetermined position. It is beneficial if the pull cord is restricted relative to the window covering as this could lead to a more controlled raising and lowering of the window covering. Typically, the window covering comprises multiple openings through which the pull cord is received. The openings are typically centrally located.
It is beneficial if at least one opening, and preferably multiple or each opening of the window covering though which the pull cord is designed such that the blocking elements cannot pass through the opening. Hence, the smallest distance of a surface defined by at least one blocking element is preferably larger than the smallest distance of a surface defined by at least one opening of the window covering through which at least one pull cord is received.

[0075] It is beneficial if at least one blocking element is positioned a lower part of a slat or window covering part of the window covering. In this way, the window covering could form a protective function for the blocking element. It is also beneficial from aesthetic point of view if the window covering at least partially shields the blocking element(s).

[0076] The device described herein provides, in accordance with different embodiments and different examples an operating device for a window covering.
The device will be further elucidated by means of non-limiting exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figures, in which:
- Figures la and la show a schematic representation of a first possible embodiment of an operating device according to the instant disclosure;
- Figure 2 shows a first possible example of a blocking element for use in an operating device according to instant disclosure;

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 - Figures 3a and 3b show a second possible embodiment of a blocking element for use in an operating device according to the instant disclosure; and - Figure 4 shows a detailed view of part of an operating device according to the instant disclosure.

[0077] With reference to Figure 1 a and in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment, an operating device for a window covering, generally referred to using the numeral 1, will now be described where Figures la and lb show a possible embodiment of an operating device 1 for a window covering according to the instant disclosure. The figures in particular show an assembly of a window covering 10 and an operating device 1 according to the instant disclosure. In the shown embodiment of Figures la and lb, the window covering 10 comprises a plurality of slats 10a which are operable via the operating device 1. In order to provide a more thorough understanding for the device disclosed herein, Figures la and lb each show a perspective view of the assembly.

[0078] The operating device 1 is in particular configured for operating a window covering such as a Roman blind, pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind. The operating device 1 as shown comprises a carrying structure 2, a plurality of lifting elements 3, in particular axially rotatable cord spools 3 wherein each cord spool 3 is configured for winding up and unwinding a pull cord 4 thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering 10. The device also comprises a plurality of ladder cords 5 configured for supporting at least part of the window covering 10. In the shown embodiment, the pull cords 4 are connected to a beam 6 which could also be lowered and raised via the pull cords 4. The pull cord 4 extends though through holes present in the window covering 10.
The ladder cord 5 encloses the window covering parts. The device 1 further comprises a drive shaft connected to the cord spools 3. The operating device 1 further comprises a plurality of blocking elements 7. In the shown configuration is each blocking element 7 attached to a pull cord 4 such that movement of the pull cord 4 relative to the ladder cord 5 is restricted.
More specifically, the blocking elements 7 enclose part of the ladder cord 5, in particular part of a rung 5a of the ladder cord 5. The blocking elements 7 are attached to both a pull cord 4 and a ladder cord 5, thereby ensuring restriction of movement of the pull cord 4 with respect to the ladder cord 5 in an efficient manner. In the shown the exemplary embodiment Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 of the figures, multiple blocking elements 7 are positioned at a distance from another over the length of the pull cord 4. In particular, between each slat 10a of the covering 10 a blocking element 7 is positioned. The blocking elements 7 enclose the pull cord 4 to which they are connected. In the embodiment shown, each blocking element 7 is present in the form of a knotted wire. The blocking elements 7 of the present embodiment are substantially flexible. The device 1, in some embodiments, further comprises sleeves 8 configured to at least partially enclose a pull cord 4. The sleeves 8 are connected via a connector 9 to the carrying structure 2. The optional sleeve 8 and connector 9 are shown in more detail in Figure 4. In the shown embodiment, the device 1 is configured for cordless operation of the window covering 10.

[0079] Figure 2 shows a detailed view of a blocking element 7 according to the instant disclosure as applied in the embodiment of the operating device 1 according to the device as shown in Figures la and lb. Figure 2 shows a ladder cord 5, having rungs 5a which extend between two vertically extending ladder beams 5b and a pull cord 4. The pull cord 4 is enclosed by a sleeve 8. An upper part of Figure 2 shows the situation wherein no blocking element is applied, hence, the pull cord 4 can freely move relative to the ladder cord 5. The bottom part of the figure shows the presence of a blocking element 7, which is pierced through the pull cord 4 and which connects the pull cord 4 and the ladder cord 5 together. Free movement of the pull cord 4 is not possible anymore since the blocking element 7 will form a restrictive boundary for the pull cord 4. This is in particular the successful in case multiple blocking elements 7 are periodically located over the length of the pull cord 4, for example as shown in Figures la and lb. The blocking element 7 is positioned below a lower side of a slat 10a. This is beneficial from aesthetic point of view, since the slats 10a basically cover the blocking elements 7.

[0080] Figures 3a and 3b show yet another possible embodiment of a blocking element 17 according to the instant disclosure configured for use in an operating device 1 according to the instant disclosure. Each figure shows a perspective view, wherein it is focused on the blocking element 17. An upper part of the figure shows the situation wherein no blocking element is applied, hence, the pull cord 4 can freely move relative to the ladder cord 5. The bottom part of the figure shows the presence of a blocking element 17, which Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07 is pierced through the pull cord 4 and which forms a boundary for the pull cord 4 such that movement of the pull cord 4 with respect to the ladder cord 5 is restricted.
In the shown embodiment, the blocking element 17 is substantially rigid and part of the blocking element pierces 17 through the pull cord 4. The blocking element 17 is attached to part of the window covering 10, in particular to a slat 10a thereof. The figure shows that the blocking element 17 is configured such that the blocking element 17 cannot be displaced through the opening of the slat 10a since the rigid and configuration and shape of the blocking element 17 prevent it therefrom. The blocking element 17 is positioned a lower part of a slat 10a or window covering part 10a of the window covering 10. The blocking element 17 is not attached to the ladder cord 5. The blocking element 17 engages the blocking element 17 in the shown configuration. Part of the blocking element 17 extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord 4. The ladder cord 5 as shown is in particular a ladder band 5, having relatively wide ladder beams 5b in combination with ladder rungs 5a.

[0081] Figure 4 shows a detailed view of part of an embodiment of an operating device 1 according to the instant disclosure, in particular a detailed view of the embodiment as shown in Figures la and lb. The operating device 1 as shown comprises a carrying structure 2, a plurality of lifting elements (not shown) configured for lowering and raising a pull cord 4 thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering 10. The device 1 also comprises a plurality of ladder cords 5 configured for supporting at least part of the window covering. The device 1 further comprises a sleeve 8 configured to at least partially enclose the pull cord 4. It may also be said that the pull cord 4 comprises a sleeve 8. The sleeve 8 as shown is for example a (knitted) sock 8. The device 1 comprises a connector 9 for connecting the sleeve 8 to the carrying structure 2. In some embodiments, it may be undesirable to attach the sleeve 8 to a cord spool, if applied, as winding up of the sleeve 8 and the pull cord 4 over the cord spool could lead to a bulky and/or tangled situation. Hence, the sleeve 8 is connected separately from the pull cord 4. In the shown embodiment, at least part of the connector 9 is resilient. The resilient character of the connector 9 enables that large pulling forces on the sleeve can be prevented. A too large pulling force on the sleeve 8 could lead to damaging thereof and/or to disconnection of the connector 9 and the sleeve 8. In the shown embodiment, the connector 9 comprises a spring 9a. The spring 9a is Date Regue/Date Received 2022-10-07 configured for attaching and/or guiding the sleeve 8 in an efficient and controlled manner.
Part of the connector 9 is positioned substantially below the drive shaft.

[0082] While the present disclosure describes various embodiments for illustrative purposes, such description is not intended to be limited to such embodiments.
On the contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims.

[0083] Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each and every problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims.
However, that various changes and modifications in form, material, work-piece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the .. present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the disclosure.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

Claims (35)

What is claimed is:

1. An operating device for a window covering such as a horizontal blind, comprising:
- at least one carrying structure;
- at least one pull cord connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering, wherein operating the pull cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure;
- at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering;
- at least one ladder cord configured for supporting at least part of the window covering;
wherein the operating device comprises a plurality of blocking elements, wherein at least one blocking element and preferably each blocking element is at least engaged or is attached to at least one pull cord such that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted.

2. The operating device of claim 1, wherein the multiple blocking elements are positioned at a distance from another over the length of the pull cord.

3. The operating device of either one of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein two adjacent blocking elements enclose at least one rung of the ladder cord.

4. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one blocking element is positioned between two adjacent rungs of the ladder cord.

5. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one blocking element encloses at least part of at least one ladder cord, in particular at least part of a rung of the ladder cord.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

6. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one blocking element is attached to at least one pull cord and to at least one ladder cord, in particular to at least one rung of the ladder cord.

7. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least part of at least .. one blocking element is substantially flexible.

8. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially rigid.

9. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least part of at least one blocking element pierces through at least one pull cord.

10. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one blocking element encloses at least one pull cord.

11. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one blocking element is made of the same material as the ladder cord and/or the pull cord.

12. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one blocking .. element forms an integral part of the pull cord.

13. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least part of at least one blocking elements extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord.

14. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising at least one .. sleeve configured to at least partially enclose the at least one pull cord.

15. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising at least one connector for connecting at least one sleeve to the carrying structure.

16. The operating device of claim 15, wherein the connector is at least partially resilient.

17. The operating device of either one of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein at least part of the connector comprises a spring.

18. The operating device of any of one claims 15 to 17, wherein at least part of the connector is positioned substantially below at least one drive shaft.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

19. An operating device for a window covering such as a horizontal blind, comprising:
- at least one carrying structure;
- at least one pull cord directly or indirectly connected or connectable to a bottom rail of a window covering, wherein operating the pull cord enables lowering and/or raising of the bottom rail with respect to the carrying structure;
- at least one lifting element configured for guiding the pull cord at least during lowering and/or raising the window covering;
wherein the operating device comprises a plurality of blocking elements, positioned along the length of the pull cord, which blocking elements, preferably each blocking element, cooperate between at least part of the pull cord and part of the window covering, such that movement of the pull cord relative to the window covering is restricted.

20. The operating device of claim 19, wherein multiple blocking elements are positioned at a distance from another over the length of the pull cord.

21. The operating device of either one of claim 19 or claim 20, wherein at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially flexible.

22. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein at least part of at least one blocking element is substantially rigid.

23. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein at least part of at least one blocking element pierces through at least one pull cord.

24. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein at least one blocking element encloses at least one pull cord.

25. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein at least one blocking element is made of the same material as the pull cord.

26. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein at least one blocking element forms integral part of the pull cord.

27. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 26, wherein at least part of at least one blocking elements extends in a direction away from the longitudinal direction of the pull cord.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07

28. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 27, comprising at least one sleeve configured to at least partially enclose the at least one pull cord.

29. The operating device of any one of claims 19 to 28, comprising at least one connector for connecting at least one sleeve to the carrying structure.

30. The operating device of claim 29, wherein the connector is at least partially resilient.

31. The operating device of either one of claim 29 or claim 30, wherein at least part of the connector comprises a spring.

32. The operating device of any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein at least part of the connector is positioned substantially below at least one drive shaft.

33. An assembly of a window covering, in particular a horizontal blind, and at least one operating device of any one of claims 1 to 33.

34. The assembly of claim 33, wherein at least one blocking element is attached to at least part of the window covering.

35. The assembly of either one of claim 33 or claim 34, wherein at least one blocking element is positioned a lower part of a slat or window covering part of the window covering.

Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-07