GB2398266A

GB2398266A - A table for the manufacture of blinds

Info

Publication number: GB2398266A
Application number: GB0303017A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Reginald Charles Allsopp
Original assignee: Louver Lite Ltd
Current assignee: Louver Lite Ltd
Priority date: 2003-02-11
Filing date: 2003-02-11
Publication date: 2004-08-18
Anticipated expiration: 2023-02-11
Also published as: GB2398266B; GB0303017D0

Abstract

A table for the preparation of window coverings comprising; a frame, two or more removable end panels which cover the areas extending across each of the two opposing ends of the table surface and a flat working surface extending between the areas which house the removable end panels. The removable end panels being interchangable at one or both opposing ends with blind preparation modules.

Description

Table

The present invention relates to an improved table for the preparation of window coverings, in particular to a table comprising removable end panels, which are interchangable with blind preparation modules. The blind preparation modules are variable units based on the table required by the user and allow the table to be tailored to each users specific needs.

Traditionally, blind preparation has been a highly skilled job, the blinds lo being prepared on simple working surfaces of sufficient size for the skilled technician to extend the fabric and manipulate this and the other blind components as desired.

There was a need for a dedicated blind preparation table to facilitate the blind making process of made-to-measure blinds. The applicants have for a number of years manufactured and sold a table which is square or rectangular in shape, and which has attached to one or both ends a blind preparation facilities designed to simplify the blind assembly procedure.

to Blind preparation facilities are typically adapted to facilitate the assembly of a blind by a non-skilled technician. They are substantially cuboid, typically incorporating a cutting means and/or cutting channels and one or more clamps, which assist the blind assembler to handle and cut to shape and size substrates in order to create blinds, quickly and reproducibly. The blind preparation module may also include indicia, measurement means, and/or other appropriate means designed to aid the blind assembler. For example, blind preparation facilities adapted for roller blind preparation typically comprise a clamp and cutting means to facilitate the accurate sizing of the window covering fabric. The roller blind preparation module will also t t t t C.. À incorporate two channels, a first for securing the fabric to a head rail, and a second for securing the fabric to a bottom rail.

Blind preparation facilities for the preparation of blinds made from woven wood substrates would be different. These would typically comprise one channel only. This may be adapted as required to act as a cutting channel, or a channel which accommodates a blind head rail and facilitates the assembly of the blind preparation. The facilities further typically comprise measuring guides for the positioning of the substrate in relation to the head lo rail, and the positioning of holes which must be punched in the substrate when it will be used in a roll-up blind. Woven wood blind preparation facilities will also typically but perhaps essentially comprise a clamping unit and a shock absorbent strip of plastic or other material onto which the hole punching operation is performed.

There are, however, disadvantages associated with this particular table. It was previously necessary to make each table to order, resulting in an extended delivery time; this in turn limited the number of new customers which could be accepted per annum and lost weeks of sales to any new to customer accepted. Further, the blind preparation unit was permanently fixed to the table end, requiring the customer to purchase different tables for different preparation procedures.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a table Is for the preparation of window coverings, the table comprising a frame; two or more removable end panels; and a flat working surface extending between the areas which house the removable end panels. The removable end panels cover the areas extending across each of the two opposing ends of the table surface. For example, if the table were rectangular, the end so panel areas would span either the two opposing short or the two opposing :e:e.e..e ce:e:e long sides of the table. The removable end panels are interchangable at one or both opposing ends with blind preparation modules.

In the present invention "blind preparation module" refers to any of the blind preparation facilities referred to above, but configured in a single unit which is interchangable with other blind preparation modules, and configured to be attachable to and removable from the table for preparation of window coverings according to the invention. A typical blind preparation module may comprise cutting means, a clamp and one or more lo channels to accommodate the non-fabric components of the blind during assembly.

The ability to remove the end panels and replace them with the blind preparation module provides flexibility, which was unavailable with previous blind preparation tables. This allows the manufacturer to hold a stock of 'standard' tables, which may be adapted from the base unit to incorporate the various blind preparation modules ordered. This significantly reduces manufacturing costs. The modules are specifically designed to facilitate preparation of the various types of blind, such as roller blinds or woven wood substrate blinds. In addition, the customer benefits from an improved service both in terms of delivery times and flexibility.

The interchangability of the removable end panels with the various blind preparation modules, allows the table to be modified as the consumer's needs change.

The term 'window' is used herein as a convenient reference with the understanding that the invention may also be used as a covering for doors or other architectural openings.

:. :e act c.. c.:e:.e The blind preparation modules of the present invention are designed to drop' into the end panel area of the supporting frame where they may be releasably secured using bolts, angle brackets or other methods common in the art.

There would normally be one or two blind preparation modules present in the table. Where one blind preparation module is fitted the removable end panels will be present at the opposing end of the table. Where two blind preparation modules are fitted they may be the same or different. The lo presence of two preparation modules allows the user to prepare two blinds in one workspace if required. Also, the removability and interchangability of the blind preparation modules allows greater versatility in blind production.

Is Suitable window covering preparation tables may be characterised by having a method of measurement readily associated with them to facilitate rapid fabric measurement. Such methods of measurement may take the form of, for example, a measure such as a ruler or measuring tape which may be secured to part of the table. In some preferred embodiments, the to measurement apparatus is one or more rulers which may be permanently secured to the table, and may run either parallel to or orthogonal to the removable end panels. Particularly preferred is a ruler which is secured on at least one side of the table which runs orthogonal to the removable end panels, and additionally which is raised to provide a straight edge along the side of the table which runs orthogonal to the removable end panels, against which in use materials used to make the blind (e.g. blind fabric) can be abutted and measured.

Preferably, the frame is a rectangular metal frame, more preferably an so aluminium or steel frame, most preferably an extruded aluminium frame À À . . secured in it's erect position through the use of a common securing means such as bolts and angle brackets. It is essential that the frame provide a flat surface on which the blind may be assembled. Preferably this is achieved through the provision of legs which may be attached to the frame. The legs s are preferably height adjustable or cut to a length appropriate for the surface on which the will stand, to try to ensure the working surface is flat and thereby improve accuracy of measurement. The frame may be of any size, however the preferred width range is 0.5 m - 4 m and the preferred length range 1 m - 5 m. The frame conveniently supports the flat working surface lo as well as providing a support in which the removable panels and the blind preparation modules may be supported.

The removable end panels may comprise any rigid material and may be different from one another. Preferably they are the same. Typically, the Is end panels are metal, preferably aluminium or steel, most preferably steel.

Additionally, the end panels may be coated, for example with paint or a polymer plastics material. The removable end panels are each conveniently of width 0.35 m. The length of the end panels may vary in accordance with the length of the end panel area. Typically, one or more of the removable to end panels will be of 1 m length and used with one or more 'sizing' end panels of variable length. These are less than 1 m long, sized as appropriate to cover the remaining area which may be otherwise occupied by the blind preparation module.

Is The end panel areas are typically rectangular; especially on a square or rectangular table, and of a size to accept a blind preparation module when the end panels are removed. One or more removable end panels are required to cover each area, in accordance with the size of the blind preparation module.

:. :. .. ... ce:e:e The working surface may be any rigid material suitable for providing a smooth flat plane on which the preparation procedure may be performed.

The surface may be one large panel, sized to cover the entire space between the two removable end panel areas. Alternatively, the working surface may s comprise a series of smaller panels tiled in order to create a working surface of the size required. In a preferred construction the working surface is made up of a number of panels which conveniently have a uniform size such as, for example 0.5 m x l m.

lo The use of small panels allows the manufacturer to sell tables in standardised sizes dictated by the number of panels to be inserted into the central working surface. This provides increased flexibility of table size as it is possible for the table manufacturer to hold a small stock of table frames in commonly ordered sizes, thereby improving assembly and delivery times.

The working surface panel or panels may comprise any synthetic or natural material sufficiently smooth and rigid to act as a working surface.

Preferably the panels will be the same material, more preferably, the panels will each be metal, even more preferably aluminium or steel. Additionally, to the panels may be coated, for example with paint or a polymer plastics material. Most preferably the panels will be of painted steel. The panels may be of any size, however typically they are 0.5 m wide by up to l m long. The size and construction of the panels will typically be the same, although smaller 'sizing' panels may be present in order to provide coverage over the entire working surface.

The flat working surface is supported by the frame. Where the flat working surface is made up of individual panels preferably a number of the working surface panels are secured to the frame for stability, and may not be removed.

À À 1 1 . À Markings may be applied to the panel or panels to further facilitate blind preparation, for example by providing measuring information. This may be done through the interleaving of panels with measuring tapes; preferably measuring tapes or rulers will be used. Conveniently, the table will have at least one measuring tape or ruler which extends orthogonal to the blind preparation modules, which may be raised above the flat working surface to provide an edge against which blind preparation materials such as fabrics may be abutted, and also conveniently measured.

An embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of nonlimiting example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure I is a perspective view of the table according to the present invention with the first of two blind preparation units present; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the table according to the present invention with two different blind preparation units present; Figure 3 is a view of a roller blind preparation module; Figure 4 is a crosssectional view of an aluminium roller tube with fabric to insert; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a roller blind bottom bar with fabric insert; Figure 6 is a view of a woven wood blind preparation module.

For the avoidance of doubt it should be noted that in this specification reference to 'width', ' length', ' lower', 'top', 'bottom', 'horizontal' 'up', down', and related terms refers to the orientation that the components of the table adopt when installed for nonnal use, as they are shown in the figures.

:e:. c.. ceeea' t4:e:.

Figure I shows a perspective view of table 2 according to the present invention. The table comprises a frame 10, having a leg support system on which the frame rests, and constructed to incorporate end panel areas 8 which can accommodate one or more blind preparation modules 6. The s frame also provides support for working surface panels 12, which make up the flat working surface. In this figure one set of end panels 4 has been removed and a first blind preparation module 6 has been installed into one of the two rectangular end panel areas 8.

lo In this embodiment the frame 10 is made of extruded aluminium sections which are bolted together. The sections are held square using angle brackets (not shown). The frame 10 is 3 m x 3 m in dimensions and comprises four or more support legs with associated bracing struts and a horizontal area which provides support for the blind preparation modules 6, when present, and the panels 4 and 12. The removable end panels 4 comprise two rectangular panels of size 0.35 m x 1 m and one panel of size 0.35 m x 0.98 m (approx.) to facilitate fitting the panels into the 3 m wide frame. The working surface panels 12 are 0.5 m x 1 m rectangles. Both panel types are made from painted steel. The surface panels 12 are secured to the frame.

Figure 2 shows table 2 of the invention where both sets of end panels 4 have been removed and a second, different, blind preparation module 32 installed.

Figure 3 shows a more detailed view of blind preparation module 6, suitable for incorporation into a table according to the invention which is a roller blind preparation module. This unit is roughly cuboid in shape and comprises two square sectional grooves 18, 24 and a releasable clamp 14 so (best seen on figures 1 and 2). Clamp 14 is attached to the blind preparation :e:. ce. cte. .:. te..

module. In use the fabric is cut along three edges, using the clamp 14 to retain the fabric between each cut. Once the fabric sheet has been cut to the required size, the top edge may be secured to an aluminium roller tube 16 (as shown in figure 4). This roller tube 16 is found at the top of the blind s when installed for normal use. Using the roller blind preparation module, the roller tube 16 is placed in channel 18, and the fabric formed into recess which runs along the entire length of the aluminium roller tube 16, using a creasing tool which initially pushes the fabric into recess 20, and then a forming tool which pushes the fabric apart under the open jaws of recess 20.

lo A Mylar strip 22 is then threaded along the recess such that the fabric is trapped between the strip and the roller tube. Channel 24, which is shaped to accommodate a bottom bar 26 of the roller blind, is then used to secure the bottom of the fabric to this bar as shown in figure 5. In use, the rail 26 is placed into the channel 24 and the fabric formed into the first recess 28, is and in a similar manner to that discussed above, a Mylar strip 22 is then used to trap the fabric in position. The bar 26 is then inverted and the fabric formed into a second recess 30 and secured using a Mylar strip 22 also as before.

so Figure 6 provides a detailed view of a suitable so-called woven wood blind preparation module 32. This module is designed to facilitate the easy assembly of blinds made from woven wood substrates. The module 32 is substantially cuboid and comprises one channel 34, which may be used for both the cutting and assembly stages through the use of inserts. The edge of Is channel 34 is positioned a precise distance (190 mm) from a longitudinal edge of the module to aid substrate alignment with the head rail during the assembly stage. As with roller blind module 6, described above, this module has a clamp 14 (not shown in figure 6) associated with it to maintain substrate position during cutting steps. The substrate is glued prior so to cutting using a hot melt adhesive to prevent disintegration of the e.e e..:e acee. :e ese..e.e substrate. A removable cutting insert which is of a size and shape to fit securely into channel 34 is placed into the channel 34. The insert comprises a wooden block including a small channel which may be used as a guide for electric scissors used during the cutting process Once the substrate has been cut to the required size, the cutting insert is removed and replaced with a head rail assembly insert 36. This is a simple strip of wood which sits in the base of channel 34 and modifies its depth.

When the head rail is placed into channel 34, on top of insert 36, the 'top' of 0 the rail is at a height such that it is flush with the upper surface of the module. The substrate is then pulled across the head rail such that it is aligned with the outside edge of the preparation module (190 mm from edge of channel 34). The substrate is then attached to the head rail, in the correct measured position, through stapling.

This module further comprises a removable plastic inlay 38 which is a nylon strip spaced 60 mm towards the centre of the table, from the channel 34. This provides a marker and shock-absorbing surface onto which holes may be punched in the substrate. This is required when the woven wood so substrate is to form part of a roll up blind.

It is to be understood that the present invention has been described above with reference to a certain specific example only, which is to be construed as not limiting the scope of the invention in any way. In particular, various :5 changes and modifications from that which has been specifically described and illustrated may be made within the scope of the invention as claimed, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. e

Claims

I e e e. e e CLAIMS

1. A table for the preparation of window coverings comprising; (a) a frame; (b)two or more removable end panels which cover the areas extending across each of the two opposing ends of the table surface; the removable end panels being interchangable at one or both opposing ends with blind preparation modules; (c) a flat working surface extending between the areas which house lo the removable end panels.

2. A table according to claim 1 wherein the flat working surface is formed from one or more integral panels.

3. A table according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the table includes one blind preparation module.

4. A table according to claim I or claim 2 wherein the table includes two blind preparation modules. i

5. A table according to any preceding claim wherein the working surface includes measuring indicia.

6. A method of using the table of any preceding claim comprising the steps off (a) using the measuring indicia to determine the dimensions of substrate required; (b) cutting the blind substrate; and (c) using the blind preparation module to secure the head rail to the substrate.