WO2024006194A1

WO2024006194A1 - An architectural structure covering

Info

Publication number: WO2024006194A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/026206
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher M. White; Kevin M. Dann; James M. Anthony
Original assignee: Hunter Douglas, Inc.
Priority date: 2022-06-29
Filing date: 2023-06-26
Publication date: 2024-01-04

Abstract

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an architectural structure covering includes a covering material, a headrail, a motor, and a housing. The motor can be positioned in the headrail. The housing can be positioned in the headrail and can include (i) a first opening for an input shaft, (ii) a second opening for an output shaft, and (iii) a diverter shaft. The diverter shaft can be offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft, the diverter shaft can be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft, the input shaft can be mechanically coupled with the motor, and at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft can be configured to move the covering material based on an operation of the motor.

Description

STACKING INTERNAL RECHARGEABLE BATTERY DIVERTER

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63/356,880, filed June 29, 2022, which is incorporated here by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Architectural structure covering can be operated using different mechanisms. In one example, the architectural structure covering is motorized. A power storage device, such as a battery, can supply power to a motor of the architectural structure covering. The motor can be operated to move a covering of the architectural structure covering between different positions.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an architectural structure covering includes a covering material, a headrail, a motor, and a housing. The motor can be positioned in the headrail. The housing can be positioned in the headrail and can include (i) a first opening for an input shaft, (ii) a second opening for an output shaft, and (iii) a diverter shaft. The diverter shaft can be offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft, the diverter shaft can be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft, the input shaft can be mechanically coupled with the motor, and at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft can be configured to move the covering material based on an operation of the motor.

[0004] In some embodiments, an offset between the diverter shaft and at least one of the output shaft or the input shaft includes at least one of an X-direction offset, a Y-direction offset, or a Z- direction offset. The housing can additionally include one or more input gears and one or more output gears. The input gears can mechanically connect the input shaft and the diverter shaft. The output gears can mechanically connect the output shaft and the diverter shaft for allowing the output shaft and the diverter shaft to rotate for vertically displacing the covering material. The input shaft and the output shaft can be positioned on a same first radial axis that is offset from a second radial axis of the diverter shaft. In certain embodiments, the housing can include a first end cap and a first sidewall. A first radial end and a second radial end of a first input gear can be received in a first recess of the first end cap and a second recess of the first sidewall, respectively. Tn various embodiments, the housing can include a second gear, the first input gear can be mechanically connected with the input shaft and the second gear, and the first input gear can provide a first displacement in a first direction. The second gear can provide a displacement in a second direction that is different than the first direction.

[0005] In some embodiments, the housing can include a second end cap and a second sidewall. A first radial end and a second radial end of a first output gear can be received in a first recess of the second end cap and a second recess of the second sidewall, respectively. In certain embodiments, the housing can include a vibration dampening material, and a barrier wall in the first sidewall can separate the vibration dampening material from the first input gear. In various embodiments, the housing can be positioned to receive a second input shaft and provide a second output shaft. The housing can include a second diverter shaft that is offset from the second input shaft or the second output shaft, and the diverter shaft and the second diverter shaft can be positioned at opposite locations with respect to the housing and relative to a center of the headrail.

[0006] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a bridge. The second sidewall can be positioned opposite the first sidewall relative to a center of the headrail, and the second sidewall can be separated from the first sidewall by a third opening. The bridge can extend across the third opening for connecting the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and the bridge can include a protrusion that corresponds to a recess, which can receive the protrusion, in the headrail. In certain embodiments, the housing can include (i) sidewalls that include fingers and define a third opening and a fourth opening opposite of the third opening, and (ii) a power storage system. The power storage system can include a battery and a printed circuit board (PCB). The battery can be positioned in the housing through the third opening and surrounded at least partially by the fingers. The PCB can include an interface that extends through the fourth opening.

[0007] In some embodiments, the interface can include a connector electrically coupled with at least one of the battery or the PCB, and the connector can be further electrically coupled to a motor controller of the motor via at least one of power wires or data wires. In certain embodiments, the motor can be positioned in the headrail and can include a motor controller. The power storage system can be electrically coupled with the motor controller via power wires and data wires, and the motor controller can be electrically coupled, via the housing, with an electrical component included in the headrail. In various embodiments, the housing can be encapsulated with a polymeric material when the power storage system is positioned in the housing.

[0008] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a housing that can be installed in a headrail of an architectural structure covering can include a first opening, a second opening, and a diverter shaft. The first opening can be configured to receive an input shaft. The second opening can be configured to receive an output shaft, and at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft may be configured to move a covering material of the architectural structure covering. The diverter shaft can be positioned in the housing to have an offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft. The diverter shaft can be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft.

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a method involves positioning a power storage system in a housing of an architectural structure covering. The housing can include a first opening configured to receive an input shaft, a second opening configured to receive an output shaft, and a diverter shaft positioned in the housing. At least one of the input shaft or the output shaft can be configured to move a covering material of the architectural structure covering. The diverter shaft can include an offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft and can be configured to be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft. The method can additionally involve positioning the housing in a headrail of the architectural structure covering. In some embodiments, the method can additionally involve mechanically coupling the input shaft and the output shaft with the diverter shaft such that the input shaft is mechanically coupled with a motor of the architectural structure covering.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is an example of an architectural structure covering assembly in a closed position, according to various embodiments; [0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the architectural structure covering assembly of FIG. 1 with a stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter according to various embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one example of a rechargeable battery pack according to various embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another example of a rechargeable battery pack according to various embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter according to various embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the internal rechargeable battery diverter of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter of FIG. 5 with the internal components removed according to various embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 8 is a below perspective view of the housing of the diverter of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of one side of the diverter of FIG. 5 according to various embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a charging cable of the architectural structure covering assembly of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments; and

[0021] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an example of a controller for use with the architectural structure covering assembly of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described. [0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an architectural structure covering (e.g., a motorized window covering assembly, etc.) for any environment, home, business, office, or otherwise. More particularly, the embodiments relate to an improved architectural structure covering including a diverter that allows one or more components (e.g., battery) to be positioned in the architectural structure covering. The diverter can divert shafts for moving a covering (e.g., raising or lowering a window covering) around the one or more components to optimize a size and/or function of the architectural structure covering. The embodiments can enable the inclusion of a power source in the architectural structure covering (e.g., in a headrail thereof). For instance, the diverter can be implemented as a diverter assembly within a housing that contains the power source, where the housing is installed in the headrail. Doing so can avoid the need for external mounting of the power source and can result in an improved aesthetic of the architectural structure covering. The internal inclusion of the power source can also positively affect mounting depth of the architectural structure covering (e.g., because no power source needs to be installed behind the architectural structure covering).

[0024] The techniques and systems described herein may be implemented by any suitable architectural structure covering, but particular examples are described that include a motorized window covering. The motorized window covering can be placed within a structure, such as, but not limited to, an apartment, a house, a building, etc. The motorized window covering can be positioned adjacent to a window. For example, the motorized window covering can be positioned adjacent to a window to block some or all of an external light from entering the structure. The motorized window covering can include a motor, power supply, and a covering material. The power supply can supply power to the motor. The motor can move the covering material, for example, between a closed position where the covering material allows external light to enter the structure and an open position where the covering material is extended and blocks external light from entering the structure.

[0025] In various embodiments, the architectural structure covering can include a housing that includes a diverter shaft. The housing can additionally include a first opening and a second opening. The first opening can be positioned and sized to receive an input shaft, and the second opening can be positioned and sized to receive an output shaft. The input shaft, the output shaft, or a combination thereof can be used, for example by a motor of the architectural structure covering, to move a covering material of the architectural structure covering. For example, the input shaft extends from or is mechanically coupled with the motor and is driven by operating the motor. The input shaft is also mechanically coupled with the output shaft via the diverter shaft. As such, operation of the motor also drives the output shaft. The diverter shaft can be positioned in the housing to be offset from the input shaft, the output shaft, or a combination thereof. The covering material can be connected to the input and output shafts (e.g., via a spool). As such, when the motor is operated, the input shaft rotates, and the rotation motion is diverted to the output shaft via the diverter shaft. The rotation motions of the input shaft and the output shaft cause the covering material to move. In some examples, the offset facilitated by the diverter can allow various components (e.g., batteries, motors, etc.) to be positioned in the housing. Accordingly, one or more dimensions of the housing can be reduced compared to other housings that do not include the diverter shaft.

[0026] Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 shows an architectural structure covering assembly 100 in a closed position. As illustrated, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 is a motorized window covering assembly, but other suitable architectural structure covering assemblies can be represented by components illustrated in FIG. 1. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include a cover 102 (e.g., a shade panel). The cover 102 is also referred to herein as a covering material. The cover 102 can be moved vertically (e.g., by a motor), though other configurations in which the cover 102 can be moved horizontally or in other suitable directions are possible. The cover 102 may be moved between a fully lowered or extended position (e.g., an open position) and a fully raised or retracted position (e.g., a closed position as illustrated in FIG. 1). When the cover 102 is in the closed position, the cover 102 can expose an adjacent architectural feature 104 such as a window. When the cover 102 is in the open position, the shade panel can cover the adjacent architectural feature 104. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can move the cover 102 to any number of intermediate positions defined between the open and closed position such that the cover 102 partially covers the adjacent architectural feature 104.

[0027] In FIG. 1, it should be appreciated that, as used herein, the term “vertical” describes the orientation or arrangement of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 in its open position as indicated by vertical arrow 106 such as when the architectural structure covering assembly 100 is mounted for use relative to an adjacent architectural feature 104. Similarly, the term “horizontal” generally describes a direction perpendicular to the vertical arrow 106 and extends side-to-side relative to the architectural structure covering assembly 100, as illustrated by arrow 108. The various directional references used herein are simply utilized to provide context to the illustrated examples, and thus, should not be construed as otherwise limiting. For instance, some architectural structure covering assemblies 100 may include respective covers configured to extend and retract in the horizontal direction, for example as indicated by the arrow 108.

[0028] The cover 102 may be or otherwise include textile, a sheer fabric, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, and/or any other suitable material for use with the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The cover 102 can be sized as required or desired for use with an architectural building. For example, the cover 102 can be sized to fit within a window frame 110 such that the cover 102 can move between the closed position and the open position. In various embodiments, the cover 102 can be substantially the same height and/or width as the window frame 110.

[0029] In some embodiments, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include a casing 109. The casing 109 can be positioned to cover some or all of the cover 102 such as when the cover 102 is in the closed position. The casing 109 can be architectural in nature. For example, the casing 109 can be architecturally pleasing and/or match the adjacent architectural feature 104 and/or the window frame 110.

[0030] The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be attached to the window frame 110 and/or a wall via attachment 112. The attachment 112 can hold the architectural structure covering assembly 100 in position while the cover 102 moves. The attachment 112 can be attached to an interior side of the window frame 110. In some embodiments, the attachment 112 can be attached to a wall above the window frame 110.

[0031] A charger 114 can attach to the architectural structure covering assembly 100, for example, to transfer power and/or or data to and/or from the architectural structure covering assembly 100. For example, the charger 114 can attach to the architectural structure covering assembly 100 to provide power to a power supply or battery pack positioned within the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The charger 114 can include magnets and/or a magnetic connector to connect the charger 114 to the architectural structure covering assembly 100. In some embodiments, the magnets can align the charger 114 with a charging port of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The magnets can additionally or alternatively hold the charger 114 in position, for example, during charging. For example, the magnets can hold the charger 114 in position to charge the power supply or battery pack in the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The charger 114 can connect to a power source (e.g., an outlet). For example, one end of the charger 114 can engage with the architectural structure covering assembly 100 and the opposite end can plug into a wall outlet. In various embodiments, the charger 114 can include a connector 116. The connector 116 can allow the charger 114 to connect to a cable such as an extension cable.

[0032] A holder 118 can be used to hold the charger 114 and position the charger 114 for attachment to the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The holder 118 can include an opening where a portion of the charger 114 can be positioned. For example, the holder 118 can include slots where protrusions of the charger 114 can be inserted. When the protrusions are inserted in the slots, the charger 114 can be held in the same position relative to the holder 118 to prevent the charger 114 from rotating.

[0033] In various embodiments, the holder 118 can be positioned on an extension 120. The extension can allow the charger 114 to be positioned next to the architectural structure covering assembly 100 for engagement with the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The extension 120 can be or include an extendable pole that can be extended to position the charger next to the architectural structure covering assembly 100 when the architectural structure covering assembly 100 is positioned in a hard to access location. In some embodiments, the holder 118 and/or the extension 120 can include a threaded connection to connect the holder 118 to the extension 120. Although external charging is described herein above, the embodiments are not limited as such. For instance, disposable batteries may be used, whereby the charger 114 and holder 118 need not be implemented.

[0034] It should be appreciated that one example of an architectural structure covering assembly 100 is illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 1. The architectural structure covering assembly 100, however, may be any type of covering that at least partially covers an architectural element such as a window, a door, an opening, or a wall. Various covering examples are described herein next for illustrative purposes, although the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these examples. In one example, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be a sheer-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes sheer front and back panels that extend and retract, and a plurality of light blocking vanes extending between the panels that tilt to open and close the covering. In other aspects, the shade panel includes a single sheer panel that extends and retracts, and a plurality of light-blocking vanes attached to the sheer panel that open and close by sliding one end of the vane relative to the panel. In yet other aspects, the shade panel includes a single sheer panel that extends and retracts, and a plurality of light blocking vanes that extend substantially vertically that rotate to open and close.

[0035] In another example, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be or otherwise include a cellular-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a front panel and back panel that are connected to each other in a cellular pattern, such as a honeycombtype pattern, a roman-type pattern, etc., and that extend and retract in an accordion-type motion. This type of cellular pattern creates a layer of insulation (e.g., air) within the covering.

[0036] In yet another example, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be or otherwise include a roman-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a single panel with a plurality of fabric folds that extends and retracts via a rolling motion (e.g., rolling the folds) or a stacking motion (e.g., stacking the folds). In other aspects, the shade panel includes a front panel and back panel connected in a cellular pattern as described above and that extends and retracts. The panels include excess fabric to generate the roman-type folds when the covering is retracted and are not necessarily configured to move in an open-and-close direction.

[0037] In still another example, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be or otherwise include a roller-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a front panel and back panel connected in a cellular pattern as described above, but extend and retract via a rolling motion. In other aspects, the shade panel includes a single panel that extends and retracts in a rolling motion. This type of single panel can be fully light blocking or partially light blocking as required or desired and is not necessarily configured to move in an open-and-closed direction. In other examples, the single panel can be or otherwise include a UV-blocking shade. In yet another aspect, the shade panel includes a front panel and back panel that each have alternating sheer and light blocking bands. Tn this example, the shade panel is extended and retracted by a rolling motion and is also open and closed by moving the panels relative to one another.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be or otherwise include a shutter-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a plurality of light-blocking vanes that tilt to open and close the covering and are not necessarily configured to move in an extended and retracted direction. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include a slat-type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a plurality of light blocking vanes (e.g., slats) that move relative to each other to extend and retract the covering, and tilt to open and close the covering. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can also be or otherwise include a vertical -type covering. In some aspects, the shade panel includes a plurality of light blocking vanes (e.g., panels or louvers) that move relative to each other in a horizontal direction to extend and retract the covering, and rotate to open and close the covering. Generally, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be any type of covering that is enabled to extend and retract and/or open and close as described herein.

[0039] Turning to FIG. 2, interior components of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 are illustrated. For ease of viewing, the casing 109 has been removed in FIG. 2. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include a motor (illustrated as a motor 202a or a motor 202b, and generally referred to as a motor 202) electrically connected to a power supply 204, and the motor 202 can receive power from the power supply 204. The motor 202 can drive movement of the cover 102 (e.g., between the open position and the closed position). The power supply 204 can be a system that includes, in addition battery(ies) (e.g., rechargeable batteries or, more generally, a power storage device that can be rechargeable) and/or any other power source as needed, a housing for a set of diverter shafts, among other mechanical components. The architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include one or more circuit boards 206 (e g , printed circuit boards). The circuit board(s) 206 can electronically communicate via a wired connection and/or a wireless connection. The circuit board(s) 206 can be electrically coupled with the motor 202, with the power supply 204, and/or with one or more additional circuit board(s). For example, a first circuit board can drive the motor 202 to move the cover 102, and a second circuit board can be or include an encoder and/or a tracking device that can track the position of the motor 202. The position of the motor 202 can be correlated with the position of the cover 102 of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The circuit board 206 can include a communication device, such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, and/or other interface, to facilitate exchange of data with remote devices such as a remote device and/or a user device.

[0040] In an example, one or more circuit boards 206 can be included in a housing 208 of the power supply 204. The housing 208 can have different shapes, including a cylindrical shape or irregular shapes. One end of the housing 208 can be attached (e.g., directly or indirectly) to or interface with one or more motors 202a-b of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. An opposite end of the housing can be attached to (e.g., directly or indirectly) or interface with the other motor 202 of the one or more motors 202a-b. Generally, the housing 208 can secure the circuit board(s) 206 in place.

[0041] As used herein, an encoder may be any device that converts angular position, linear position, or motion of a shaft or axle to an analog or digital code. The encoder can be or include a Hall effect sensor that detects rotation of a magnet coupled to an output (e.g., a drive shaft) of the motor 202 and/or any type of device that detects rotations (e.g., a rotary encoder or a gravitational sensor). The encoder can be positioned on the circuit board 206 or any suitable position within the casing 109.

[0042] In various embodiments, the circuit board(s) 206 can be connected via a wired connection to any other suitable component of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. For example, the circuit board(s) 206 can be connected via wired connection using connector 210 or any other suitable electrical or communication connection. The connector 210 can be or include a flat cable (e.g., a flat flex) that are positioned between a component (e.g., the power supply 204) and the casing 109 or any component thereof such as the motor 202a. The connector 210 can allow the use of a smaller casing around the components. For example, the connector 210 can allow a smaller casing than there would be if a traditional round cable was used. The connector 210 can include wires for transmitting a signal and/or wires for transmitting power. For example, signal wires can carry information about a position of one or more of the motors 202a-b sensed by the encoder, whereas the power wires can supply power to the encoder. In some embodiments, the connector 210 can include wires arranged to prevent or reduce interference of the signals. For example, the wires transmitting the signals can be separated from the wires transmitting power.

[0043] In further embodiments, the components of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can be positioned along direction 213 (e.g., a longitudinal direction for laterally spacing apart the components). The components can be positioned along direction 213 to maximize the size of one or more of the components that can fit within the casing 109. For example, the components can be positioned along direction 213 to maximize the size of the power supply 204 that can fit in the casing 109. However, the components can be positioned along direction 213 to minimize distances between various components or between the architectural structure covering assembly 100 and the architectural structure.

[0044] In various embodiments, a charging port 212 can be positioned at a first end of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The motor 202a, or any other suitable component, can be positioned next to the charging port 212 and electrically coupled with the charging port 212. In some embodiments, the charging port 212 can receive a charging cable 215 (e.g., a charging handle), which can include a cassette 216, for charging the architectural structure covering assembly 100 (e.g., the power supply 204 thereof). Additionally, the charging port 212 can be electrically coupled with the power supply 204, the motor 202, and/or a circuit board 206. The circuit board 206 can include a motor controller that can control the motor 202, and the power supply 204 can be positioned next to (e.g., above or below) the circuit board 206. The power supply 204 can receive power from the charging port 212 such as via the circuit board 206 or other suitable components. The power supply 204 can be or include rechargeable batteries. The circuit board 206 can additionally be or include an encoder that can track the position of the motor 202a.

[0045] In some embodiments, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include one or more shafts. For example, the architectural structure covering assembly 100 can include a first shaft 214a and a second shaft 214b. The first shaft 214a may be or otherwise include an input shaft and/or an output shaft, and the second shaft 214b may be or otherwise include an input shaft and/or an output shaft. The first shaft 214a and the second shaft 214b may be mechanically coupled to the motor 202a and the motor 202b, respectively, via the power supply 204 (or, more specifically, via the diverter shafts in the housing of the power supply 204) and any other suitable components of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. In some embodiments, the first shaft 214a and the second shaft 214b can extend from a first end (e.g., connected to the motor 202a) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 to a second end (e.g., connected to the motor 202b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The first shaft 214a and the second shaft 214b may each (or individually) be discontinuous at the power supply 204. For example, the power supply 204 may include a system of shafts and gears that allow the first shaft 214a and/or the second shaft 214b to be connected to the power supply 204 (e.g., to its housing) without having to adjust the components within the power supply 204. In one such example, the power supply 204 can include one or more diverter shafts that divert the first shaft 214a and/or the second shaft 214b around the internal components of the power supply 204 for allowing the first shaft 214a and/or the second shaft 214b to be mechanically connected to components of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 without adjusting the components of the power supply 204.

[0046] Turning to FIG. 3, a perspective view of one example of a rechargeable battery pack 300 is illustrated. The rechargeable battery pack 300 is an example of a power storage device usable in the power supply 204 of FIG. 2. As illustrated, the rechargeable battery pack 300 includes four batteries 302a-d, which are illustrated as being arranged in a two-by-two array. For example, the battery 302a may be positioned abutting the battery 302b in a first direction and positioned abutting the battery 302c in a different direction, etc. Other suitable number and/or arrangements of the batteries 302a-d are possible. In some embodiments, each battery 302 of the rechargeable battery pack 300 can be or otherwise include a lithium-ion rechargeable battery such as a 18650 lithium ion battery Other suitable, rechargeable batteries can be used or included in the rechargeable battery pack 300. In some embodiments, the rechargeable battery pack 300 can be positioned in the architectural structure covering assembly 100, or any component thereof (e.g., within the housing of the power supply 204), for providing power to one or more components (e.g., the motors 202a-b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100.

[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rechargeable battery pack 300 additionally includes a circuit board 206 and a set of wires 304. The circuit board 206 may be similar or identical to the circuit board illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 2. For example, the circuit board 206 may include a printed circuit board and may be used to transfer power and/or data with respect to the rechargeable battery pack 300. Additionally or alternatively, the circuit board 206 can protect the batteries 302 from a variety of events including over-charging, over-discharging, short circuiting, over-discharge current, and excessive temperature. The set of wires 304 can include one or more wires for transmitting power, data, or a combination thereof. For example, the set of wires 304 can include at least one power wire for transferring power from the rechargeable battery pack 300 to other suitable components (e.g., the motors 202a-b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. Additionally, the set of wires 304 can include at least one data wire for transferring data relating to the rechargeable battery pack 300 or other suitable component of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 to a suitable computing device.

[0048] Turning to FIG. 4, a perspective view of another example of a rechargeable battery pack 400 is illustrated. The rechargeable battery pack 400 is an example of a power storage device usable in the power supply 204 of FIG. 2/ As illustrated, the rechargeable battery pack 400 includes four batteries 302a-d, which are illustrated as being arranged in a two-by-two array. For example, the battery 302a may be positioned abutting the battery 302b in a first direction and positioned abutting the battery 302c in a different direction, etc. Other suitable number and arrangements of the batteries 302a-d are possible. In some embodiments, each battery 302 of the rechargeable battery pack 400 can be or otherwise include a lithium-ion rechargeable battery such as an 18650 lithium ion battery. Other suitable, rechargeable batteries can be used or included in the rechargeable battery pack 400. In some embodiments, the rechargeable battery pack 400 can be positioned in the architectural structure covering assembly 100, or any component thereof (e g., the power supply 204), for providing power to one or more components (e.g., the motors 202a-b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100.

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the rechargeable battery pack 300 additionally includes a circuit board 206. The circuit board 206 may be similar or identical to the circuit board illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 2. For example, the circuit board 206 may include a printed circuit board and may be used to transfer power and/or data with respect to the rechargeable battery pack 400. Additionally or alternatively, the circuit board 206 can protect the batteries 302 from a variety of events including over-charging, over-discharging, short circuiting, over-discharge current, and excessive temperature. The circuit board 206 can include a first connector 402a and a second connector 402b. The first connector 402a and the second connector 402b can be arranged or otherwise configured to receive a connector (e.g., the connector 210). The first connector 402a and the second connector 402b may receive a connector for transferring data, power, or a combination thereof. For example, the first connector 402a may receive a power connector for transferring power from the rechargeable battery pack 400 to one or more other suitable components (e.g., the motors 202a-b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. Additionally or alternatively, the second connector 402b may receive a power and data connector that may transfer (i) power from the rechargeable battery pack 400 to one or more other suitable components (e.g., the motors 202a-b) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 and (ii) data from the rechargeable battery pack 400 to a suitable computing device.

[0050] Turning to FIG. 5, a perspective view of a stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 is illustrated. In some embodiments, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can be, include, or be included in the power supply 204 illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 2. For example, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can be positioned in the architectural structure covering assembly 100 for providing power to the architectural structure covering assembly 100 or any suitable component thereof.

[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes internal component 502, a housing 504, and one or more end caps 506 (illustrated as an end cap 506a and 506b). The stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can include any other components or combination of suitable components. In some embodiments, the internal component 502 is or otherwise includes the rechargeable battery pack 300 illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 3, or similarly, the rechargeable battery pack 400 illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 4. Referring to the rechargeable battery pack 300, the internal component 502 can include the batteries 302a-d, the circuit board 206, and the set of wires 304. While illustrated and described as a battery pack, the internal component 502 can be or otherwise include other suitable components (e.g., the motors 202a-b, circuit boards 206, shafts, etc.) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. Additionally, in some embodiments, the housing 504 can be encapsulated with a polymeric material when the internal component 502 is positioned in the housing 504.

[0052] In some embodiments, the housing 504 can include one or more openings for receiving one or more suitable shafts included in the architectural structure covering assembly 100. For example, the housing 504 can include a first opening 508a and a second opening 508b (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 6). The first opening 508a can be sized to receive a first shaft (e.g., an input shaft), and the second opening 508b can be sized to receive a second shaft (e.g., an output shaft). In some embodiments, the housing 504 can additionally include a third opening 508c and a fourth opening 508d (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 6). The third opening 508c can be sized to receive a third shaft (e.g., a second input shaft), and the fourth opening 508d can be sized to receive a fourth shaft (e.g., a second output shaft).

[0053] In some embodiments, the first opening 508a, the second opening 508b, the third opening 508c, and/or the fourth opening 508d can be positioned on or within end caps 506a-b. For example, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can include a first end cap 506a that can include the first opening 508a and the third opening 508c. Additionally, and as illustrated with respect to FIG. 6, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can include a second end cap 506b that can include the second opening 508b and the fourth opening 508d. The first opening 508a and the second opening 508b may be positioned along a first axis, and the third opening 508c and the fourth opening 508d may be positioned along a second axis that is different than the first axis.

[0054] Additionally, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can include one or more sets of gears. For example, and as illustrated, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes a first set of gears 510a and a second set of gears 510b. The first set of gears 510a may correspond to the first opening 508a, and the second set of gears 510b may correspond to the third opening 508c. The stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can include any other suitable sets of gears 510 for receiving and providing shafts. The first set of gears 510a may enable a first offset such that a shaft received via the first opening 508a to be diverted around the internal component 502, and the second set of gears 510b may enable a second offset such that a shaft received via the third opening 508c to be diverted around the internal component 502 in a different direction than that of the shaft received via the first opening 508a.

[0055] In some embodiments, the housing 504 can additionally include a set of fingers 512. For example, and as illustrated, the housing 504 includes fingers 512a-d that are positioned on an exterior of the housing 504 and around the internal component 502 when the internal component 502 is installed in the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500. The fingers 512a-d allow the internal component 502 to be securely installed and retained within the housing 504.

[0056] Turning to FIG. 6, an exploded view of the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 of FIG. 5 is illustrated. As illustrated, the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes the internal component 502, the housing 504, the first end cap 506a, and the second end cap 506b. Additionally, the housing 504 includes the fingers 512a-d, the first end cap 506a includes the first opening 508a and the third opening 508c, and the second end cap 506b includes the second opening 508b and the fourth opening 508d.

[0057] The internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can additionally include one or more diverter shafts 602. For example, and as illustrated, the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes a first diverter shaft 602a and a second diverter shaft 602b, though other suitable numbers (e.g., one, three, four, or more) of diverter shafts are possible. The first diverter shaft 602a may be positioned opposite from the second diverter shaft 602b with respect to the housing 504 and/or to a center of the casing 109 (e.g., headrail) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The first diverter shaft 602a can be associated with the first opening 508a and the second opening 508b, and the second diverter shaft 602b can be associated with the third opening 508c and the fourth opening 508d. For example, the first diverter shaft 602a may be coupled, via gears, with an input shaft on one end and an output shaft on the other end. The first diverter shaft 602a may allow the input shaft received via the first opening 508a to be diverted around the internal component 502 and to be (at least indirectly) coupled with the output shaft provided via the second opening 508b. The first diverter shaft 602a is offset from the input shaft and/or the output shaft along any or a combination of the X, Y, and Z directions, where the offset can be created by the gears. The output shaft and the input shaft need not be aligned along the same direction. Similarly, the second diverter shaft 602b may be coupled, via gears, with another input shaft on one end and another output shaft on the other end. The second diverter shaft 602b may allow the input shaft received via the third opening 508c to be diverted around the internal component 502 and to be (at least indirectly) coupled with the output shaft provided via the fourth opening 508d.

[0058] One or more of the diverter shafts of the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 can be coupled with one or more of the input shaft and/or the output shaft via a set of gears. For example, the first diverter shaft 602a can be connected to an input shaft (or in other examples, an output shaft) via gears 604a-c, and the first diverter shaft 602a can additionally be connected to an output shaft (or in other examples, the input shaft) via gears 606a-c. The gear 604a can receive the input shaft. For example, the input shaft can be positioned in an interior section of the gear 604a. The gear 604b can be offset in at least one direction from the gear 604a and can be coupled (e.g., via gear teeth) to the gear 604a. Additionally, the gear 604c can provide an offset in at least another direction from the gear 604b and be coupled (e.g., via gear teeth) to the gear 604b. The first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned within the gear 604c. Accordingly, rotating the input shaft may cause the gears 604a-c to rotate, which may also cause the first diverter shaft 602a to rotate. In some embodiments, the gear ratio among the gears 604a-c may be 1 :1, though other suitable gear ratios are possible.

[0059] Additionally, the gear 606a can receive the output shaft. For example, the output shaft can be positioned in an interior section of the gear 606a. The gear 606b can provide an offset in at least one direction from the gear 606a and can be coupled (e.g., via gear teeth) to the gear 606a. Additionally, the gear 606c can be offset in at least another direction from the gear 606b and can be coupled (e.g., via gear teeth) to the gear 606b. The first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned within the gear 606c. Accordingly, rotating the first diverter shaft 602a may cause the gears 606a-c to rotate, which may also cause the output shaft to rotate. In some embodiments, the gear ratio among the gears 606a-c may be 1 :1, though other suitable gear ratios are possible. Typically, a 1 : 1 gear ratio may be used for an input shaft and an output shaft that are coupled via a diverter shaft and a set of gears. However, a first gear ratio between the input shaft and the diverter shaft need not be 1 :1, and a second gear ratio between the diverter shaft and the output shaft need not be 1 : 1. For instance, the first gear ratio may be 1 :2 and the second gear ratio may be 2: 1 resulting in a 1 :1 gear ratio between the input shaft and the output shaft. [0060] The gears 604a-c and the gears 606a-c may each be positioned in a recessed portion of one of the end caps 506a-b. For example, the gear 606a can be positioned in a first recess 608a, the gear 606b can be positioned in a second recess 608b, and the gear 606c can be positioned in a third recess 608c. As illustrated, the first recess 608a, the second recess 608b, and the third recess 608c are positioned on an interior of the second end cap 506b, though the first recess 608a, the second recess 608b, and/or the third recess 608c can be otherwise suitably positioned with respect to the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 for receiving the gears 606a-c. In some embodiments, the first recess 608a can be formed within or otherwise adjacent to the second opening 508b. Additionally, and though not illustrated in FIG. 6, the gears 604a-c may be positioned in similar, identical, and/or corresponding recesses that may be formed or otherwise positioned on an interior of the first end cap 506a.

[0061] In some embodiments, for example in embodiments in which the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes the second diverter shaft 602b, the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 may include gears 612a-c. The gears 612a-c may be similar or identical, but mirrored with respect, to the gears 604a-c. Additionally, the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 may include a fourth set of gears (not illustrated in FIG. 6) that are similar or identical, but mirrored with respect, to the gears 606a-c. The second diverter shaft 602b may be positioned with respect to the gears 612a-c and the fourth set of gears in a similar or identical manner to the positioning of the first diverter shaft 602a with respect to the gears 604a-c and the gears 606a-c.

[0062] Turning to FIG. 7, a perspective view of the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 of FIG. 5 with the internal components removed is illustrated. As illustrated, the stacking internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 includes the housing 504. The housing 504 can be sized to receive the internal component 502 (e.g., the rechargeable battery pack 300, the rechargeable battery pack 400, etc.), and the housing 504 can be positioned in a headrail (e.g., the casing 109) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 or in other suitable locations with respect to the architectural structure covering assembly 100.

[0063] Additionally, the housing 504 includes the first opening 508a (not illustrated with respect to FIG. 7) and the second opening 508b (not illustrated with respect to FIG. 7). The first opening 508a can be sized to receive an input shaft 702, and the second opening can be sized to provide an output shaft 704. Tn some embodiments, the first opening 508a can be sized to provide the output shaft 704, and the second opening can be sized to receive the input shaft 702. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the input shaft 702 is positioned in the first opening 508a, and the output shaft 704 is positioned in the second opening 508b.

[0064] In some embodiments, at least one of the input shaft 702 or the output shaft 704 can be connected to the motor 202a. For example, a first side of the input shaft 702 can be connected to the motor 202a, and a second side of the input shaft 702 can be connected to the first gear 708a. In other examples, a first side of the output shaft 704 can be connected to the motor 202a, and a second side of the output shaft 704 can be connected to the sixth gear 708f. Additionally, the input shaft 702 and/or the output shaft 704 can be used to move the cover 102 of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. For example, rotating the input shaft 702 and/or the output shaft 704 may cause the cover 102 to move (e.g., vertically, horizontally, or in any other suitable direction) for covering or exposing the adjacent architectural feature 104.

[0065] The housing 504 can include one or more sets of gears. For example, the housing 504 can include the first set of gears 510a, and an additional set of gears 706. The first set of gears 510a can include a first gear 708a, a second gear 708b, and a third gear 708c, and the additional set of gears 706 can include a fourth gear 708d, a fifth gear 708e, and a sixth gear 708f. The first gear 708a can be positioned in a recess behind or otherwise concentric with the first opening 508a, and the first gear 708a can receive the input shaft 702, which may include a cylindrical shaft, a v-shaft, or any other suitable shafts. The second gear 708b can be positioned in an additional recess positioned within the housing 504 (e.g., on an interior surface of the first end cap 506a), can be offset from the first gear 708a, and can be mechanically connected (e.g., via gear teeth) to the first gear 708a. The third gear 708c can be positioned in an additional recess positioned within the housing 504 (e.g., on an interior surface of the first end cap 506a), can be offset from the second gear 708b, and can be mechanically connected (e.g., via gear teeth) to the second gear 708b.

[0066] The housing 504 can additionally include the first diverter shaft 602a. In some embodiments, the first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned offset from one of the input shaft 702 or the output shaft 704. For example, the first diverter shaft 602a may be positioned offset from the input shaft 702 but on a similar axis with respect to the output shaft 704. In other examples, the first diverter shaft 602a may be positioned offset from the output shaft 704 but on a similar axis with respect to the input shaft 702. In yet other examples, such as the example illustrated with respect to FIG. 7, the first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned offset from both the input shaft 702 and the output shaft 704. Accordingly, a first end of the first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned in the third gear 708c, and a second end of the first diverter shaft 602a can be positioned in the fourth gear 708d. The fourth gear 708d can be positioned in an additional recess positioned within the housing 504 (e.g., on an interior surface of the first end cap 506a). The fifth gear 708e can be positioned in an additional recess positioned within the housing 504 (e.g., on an interior surface of the second end cap 506b), can be offset from the fourth gear 708d, and can be mechanically connected (e.g., via gear teeth) to the fourth gear 708d. The sixth gear 708f can be positioned in an additional recess positioned within the housing 504 (e.g., on an interior surface of the second end cap 506b), can be offset from the fifth gear 708e, and can be mechanically connected (e.g., via gear teeth) to the fifth gear 708e. The sixth gear 708f can provide the output shaft 704. For example, the output shaft 704 can be positioned within an interior surface or region of the sixth gear 708f. Accordingly, the first diverter shaft 602a can be mechanically coupled (e.g., at least indirectly) with the input shaft 702 and the output shaft 704.

[0067] In some embodiments, an offset can exist between the first diverter shaft 602a and at least one of the input shaft 702 or the output shaft 704. For example, an offset between the first diverter shaft 602a and the input shaft 702 can include an X-direction offset, a Y-direction offset, a Z-direction offset, or any suitable combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, an offset between the first diverter shaft 602a and the output shaft 704 can include an X-direction offset, a Y-direction offset, a Z-direction offset, or any suitable combination thereof In some embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, a first offset between the first diverter shaft 602a and the input shaft 702 can be similar or identical to a second offset between the first diverter shaft 602a and the output shaft 704. Additionally, the input shaft 702 and the output shaft 704 can be positioned on a similar or identical radial axis that is offset from a second radial axis of the first diverter shaft 602a.

[0068] While FIG. 7 illustrates the housing 504 as including one input shaft 702, one output shaft 704, and the first diverter shaft 602a, the housing 504 can include an additional input shaft, an additional output shaft, and a second diverter shaft 602b. Tn examples in which the housing 504 includes the second diverter shaft 602b, the additional input shaft, the additional output shaft, and the second diverter shaft 602b may be arranged similarly (e.g., but mirrored) with respect to the input shaft 702, the output shaft 704, and the first diverter shaft 602a. In other such examples, the additional input shaft, the additional output shaft, and the second diverter shaft 602b may be arranged differently than the input shaft 702, the output shaft 704, and the first diverter shaft 602a. For example, the input shaft 702 and the output shaft 704 may be on the same radial axis, while the additional input shaft may be on a different radial axis than the additional output shaft. Other suitable arrangements of the additional input shaft, the additional output shaft, and the second diverter shaft 602b are possible.

[0069] Turning to FIG. 8, a below perspective view of the housing 504 of the internal rechargeable battery diverter500 of FIG. 5 is illustrated. As illustrated, the housing 504 includes a first sidewall 802, a second sidewall 804, and a bridge 806. The first sidewall 802 and the second sidewall 804 can be positioned opposite one another with respect to a center of the casing 109 (e.g., the headrail) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. Additionally, the first sidewall 802 and the second sidewall 804 can be separated by an opening 808 that may be sized to receive the internal component 502. The bridge 806 can extend across the opening for connecting the first sidewall 802 and the second sidewall 804. Additionally, the bridge 806 can include a protrusion 810 that corresponds to a recess in the casing 109 such that the recess is configured to receive the protrusion 810.

[0070] In some embodiments, the housing 504 additionally includes the fingers 512a-d that can extend around opening 812. For example, the opening 812 can be an opening on a top portion of the housing 504, whereas the opening 808 may be an opening on a bottom portion of the housing. In some embodiments, the fingers 512a-d can retain a power storage system (e.g., the rechargeable battery pack 300) in the opening 812, while the circuit board 206, or any suitable interface thereof, can extend through the opening 808 and can be connected to the power storage system.

[0071] Turning to FIG. 9, an exploded view of one side of the internal rechargeable battery diverter 500 of FIG. 5 is illustrated. As illustrated, the housing 504 can include the first end cap 506a and a sidewall 901 (e.g., illustrated best with respect to FIG. 8). Additionally, the housing 504 can include the first gear 708a, the second gear 708b, and the third gear 708c. As illustrated, an interior surface of the first end cap 506a can include a first recess 608a, a second recess 608b, and a third recess 608c, which each may correspond to respective gears (e.g., the first gear 708a, the second gear 708b, and the third gear 708c). Additionally, and as best illustrated in FIG. 8, the sidewall 901 includes a first recess 902a, a second recess 902b, and a third recess 902c, which each may correspond to respective gears (e.g., the first gear 708a, the second gear 708b, and the third gear 708c). In some embodiments, a first radial end of the first gear 708a can be positioned in the first recess 608a, and a second radial end of the first gear 708a can be positioned in the first recess 902a. Additionally, a first radial end of the second gear 708b can be positioned in the second recess 608b, and a second radial end of the second gear 708b can be positioned in the second recess 902b. Additionally, a first radial end of the third gear 708c can be positioned in the third recess 608c, and a second radial end of the third gear 708c can be positioned in the third recess 902c.

[0072] In some embodiments, the second gear 708b can be offset from the first gear 708a. The first gear 708a can receive the input shaft 702, and the first gear 708a can provide a first displacement in a first direction. The first gear 708a can be mechanically connected (e g., via gear teeth) to the second gear 708b, which can provide a second displacement in a second direction that is different than the first direction of the first displacement provided by the first gear 708a. The third gear 708c can be offset from the first gear 708a and from the second gear 708b in one or more directions. For example, the third gear 708c can be offset in both an X- direction and a Z-direction (or other suitable combination of directions) with respect to the first gear 708a. Additionally, the third gear 708c can be mechanically connected (e.g., via gear teeth) to the second gear 708b and can be sized to receive a diverter shaft such as the first diverter shaft 602a.

[0073] In some embodiments, the housing 504 can include an additional end cap such as the second end cap 506b. The second end cap 506b may be similar or identical to (e g., but mirrored) with respect to the first end cap 506a. For example, the second end cap 506b can be positioned opposite the first end cap 506a with respect to a center of the housing 504 and may include corresponding recesses for receiving a first radial end of each of a second set of gears that may be similar or identical to the first gear 708a, the second gear 708b, and the third gear 708c. Additionally, the housing 504 can include an additional sidewall that may be similar or identical (e.g., and positioned opposite the housing 504) to the sidewall 901. For example, the additional sidewall can include recesses similar or identical to the first recess 902a, the second recess 902b, and the third recess 902c for receiving a second radial end of each of the second set of gears.

[0074] Additionally, and as illustrated, the housing can include at least one dampening material 910. The dampening material 910 can include rubber, ceramics, polymeric material, or any other suitable material that can dampen vibrations or other suitable waves that may propagate via the housing 504. The dampening material 910 can be positioned on the housing 504 on an exterior portion 920 (e.g., an opening in the housing 504). In some embodiments, the exterior portion 920 may be or otherwise include a barrier wall in the sidewall 901 (e.g., a barrier wall that defines at least a portion of the recesses 902a-b around the gears). The exterior portion 920 may separate the dampening material 910 from the first gear 708a or any other suitable gears or components included in the housing 504.

[0075] Turning to FIG. 10, a perspective view of a charging cable 215 of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 of FIG. 1. The charging cable 215 can include a cassette 216 that can include various connections. For example, the cassette 216 can include a positive connection 1002 and a negative or ground connection 1004. The cassette 216 can include any other suitable connections for providing power (e.g., DC power) to the architectural structure covering assembly 100. The positive connection 1002 and the negative or ground connection 1004 may each be or include a protrusion (e.g., an electrically conductive prong) configured to connect with wires or corresponding connections included in the architectural structure covering assembly 100 (e.g., with electrically conductive receptacles, each corresponding to one of the prongs). For example, the cassette 216 can be positioned in a connection port 1006 of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 such that the positive connection 1002 from the cassette 216 is positioned in a first opening 1008 and that the negative or ground connection 1004 from the cassette 216 is positioned in a second opening 1010.

[0076] The first opening 1008 can include or otherwise correspond to a first wire 1012, and the second opening 1010 can include or otherwise correspond to a second wire 1014. In some embodiments, the first wire 1012 and the second wire 1014 can be included in the set of wires 304 of the rechargeable battery pack 300 or other suitable component of the architectural structure covering assembly 100. Tn response to the cassette being positioned in the connection port 1006, the positive connection 1002 can contact the first wire 1012, and the negative or ground connection 1004 can contact the second wire 1014. Accordingly, electricity can flow to and/or from the charging cable 215 from and/or to the power supply 214 (e.g., included in the housing 504) of the architectural structure covering assembly 100.

[0077] Turning to FIG. 11, a block diagram of an example of a controller 1104 for use with the architectural structure covering assembly 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) is illustrated. In the example described below, the controller 1104 is described in connection with the motor 202 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2); however, it is understood that the controller 1104 may likewise be used to control any other component of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 as required or desired. In various embodiments, the controller 1104 can be or include the circuit boards 206 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2).

[0078] The controller 1104 can include a motor controller 1106 that controls one or more motors 202 of the architectural structure covering assembly 100 based on one or more commands. For example, the motor controller 1106 can control the direction of rotation of an output shaft of the motors 202, the speed of the output shaft, and/or other operations of the motor so as to extend and retract and open and close the shade panel.

[0079] The controller 1104 can also include a position sensor interface 1110 that can receive signals from one or more position sensors 1118. The position sensors 1118 can include, for example, a magnetic encoder, a rotary encoder, a gravitational sensor, etc. The position sensors 1118 can be used to count pulses or rotations of the motor 202, to track the position of a rotating element (e.g., the output shaft, the roller assembly, etc.) while movement of the covering is being driven (e.g., by a rotating member or any other driving member). The position sensor interface 1110 can process the signals from the position sensors 1118 and a position determiner 1112 determines a position of the shade panel based on the processed signal(s) from the position sensor interface 1110.

[0080] An action determiner 1114 can used to determine what action (if any) is to be performed by the motor 202 based on input information from the communication device 1102 (e.g., receiving operational instructions from a remote device via a gateway) and/or the position determiner 1 112. Tn examples, the communication device is operable to communicate with remote devices via a gateway, wherein the connection with the gateway can use any number of different networks or protocols, such as over Wi-Fi, BLUETOOTH, BLUETOOTH Low Energy, ZIGBEE, etc. For example, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1102 to open the covering, the action determiner 1114 sends a signal to the motor controller 1106 to activate the motor 202 in an open direction. Similarly, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1102 to close the covering, the action determiner 1114 sends a signal to the motor controller 1106 to activate the motor 202 in a closed direction. In another example, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1102 to extend the covering, the action determiner 1114 sends a signal to the motor controller 1106 to activate the motor 202 in an extended direction. Similarly, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1102 to retract the covering, the action determiner 1114 sends a signal to the motor controller 1106 to activate the motor 202 in a retraction direction. Based on the received operational control signal, the action determiner 1114 and the position determiner 1112 can selectively use the motor controller 1106 to command the motor 202 in one direction or another so that the covering is moved as required or desired.

[0081] A data store 1116 (e.g., memory) of the controller 1104 can store data as required or desired. For example, the data store 1116 can include information that is emitted in a broadcast signal from the covering, such as, covering informational data (e.g., a covering identifier), a structure identifier (e.g., an edifice identification number or a home ID), and/or power transmission data.

[0082] Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways and/or methods to implement the various embodiments. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.

[0083] Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. Tt should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.

[0084] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0085] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is intended to be understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[0086] Various embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An architectural structure covering comprising: a covering material; a headrail; a motor positioned in the headrail; and a housing positionable in the headrail and comprising a first opening for an input shaft, a second opening for an output shaft, and a diverter shaft, wherein: the diverter shaft is offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft, the diverter shaft is mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft, the input shaft is mechanically coupled with the motor, and at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft is configured to move the covering material based on an operation of the motor.

2. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein an offset between the diverter shaft and at least one of the output shaft or the input shaft includes at least one of an X-direction offset, a Y-direction offset, or a Z-direction offset, wherein the housing further comprises: one or more input gears configured to mechanically connect the input shaft and the diverter shaft; and one or more output gears configured to mechanically connect the output shaft and the diverter shaft for allowing the output shaft and the diverter shaft to rotate for vertically displacing the covering material, wherein the input shaft and the output shaft are positioned on a same first radial axis that is offset from a second radial axis of the diverter shaft.

3. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a first end cap and a first sidewall, wherein a first radial end and a second radial end of a first input gear are received in a first recess of the first end cap and a second recess of the first sidewall, respectively.

4. The architectural structure covering of claim 3, wherein the housing comprises a second gear, wherein the first input gear is mechanically connected with the input shaft and the second gear, wherein the first input gear provides a first displacement in a first direction, and wherein the second gear provides a displacement in a second direction that is different than the first direction.

5. The architectural structure covering of claim 3, wherein the housing comprises a second end cap and a second sidewall, wherein a first radial end and a second radial end of a first output gear are received in a first recess of the second end cap and a second recess of the second sidewall, respectively.

6. The architectural structure covering of claim 3, wherein the housing further comprises a vibration dampening material, and wherein a barrier wall in the first sidewall separates the vibration dampening material from the first input gear.

7. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein the housing is further positionable to receive a second input shaft and provide a second output shaft, wherein the housing further comprises a second diverter shaft that is offset from the second input shaft or the second output shaft.

8. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises: a first sidewall; a second sidewall positioned opposite from the first sidewall relative to a center of the headrail, the second sidewall separated from the first sidewall by a third opening; and a bridge extending across the third opening for connecting the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the bridge comprising a protrusion that corresponds to a recess in the headrail, the recess configured to receive the protrusion.

9. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises (i) sidewalls that include fingers and define a third opening and a fourth opening opposite of the third opening, (ii) and a power storage system, and wherein the power storage system comprises: a battery positionable in the housing through the third opening and surrounded at least partially by the fingers; and a printed circuit board (PCB) having an interface that extends through the fourth opening.

10. The architectural structure covering of claim 9, wherein the interface includes a connector electrically coupled with at least one of the battery or the PCB, and wherein the connector is further electrically coupled to a motor controller of the motor via at least one of power wires or data wires.

11. The architectural structure covering of claim 9, wherein the motor is positioned in the headrail and includes a motor controller, wherein the power storage system is electrically coupled with the motor controller via power wires and data wires, and wherein the motor controller is electrically coupled, via the housing, with an electrical component included in the headrail.

12. The architectural structure covering of claim 9, wherein the housing is encapsulated with a polymeric material when the power storage system is positioned in the housing.

13. A housing installable in a headrail of an architectural structure covering, the housing comprising: a first opening configured to receive an input shaft; a second opening configured to receive an output shaft, wherein at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft is configured to move a covering material of the architectural structure covering; and a diverter shaft positioned in the housing to have an offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft and configured to be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft.

14. The housing of claim 13, wherein the offset between the diverter shaft and at least one of the output shaft or the input shaft includes at least one of an X-direction offset, a Y-direction offset, or a Z-direction offset, wherein the housing further comprises: one or more input gears configured to mechanically connect the input shaft and the diverter shaft; and one or more output gears configured to mechanically connect the output shaft and the diverter shaft for allowing the output shaft and the diverter shaft to rotate for vertically displacing the covering material, wherein the input shaft and the output shaft are positioned on a same first radial axis that is offset from a second radial axis of the diverter shaft.

15. The housing of claim 13, further comprising: a first end cap and a first sidewall, wherein a first radial end and a second radial end of a first input gear are received in a first recess of the first end cap and a second recess of the first sidewall, respectively; and a second end cap and a second sidewall, wherein a first radial end and a second radial end of a first output gear are received in a first recess of the second end cap and a second recess of the second sidewall, respectively.

16. The housing of claim 15, further comprising a second gear, wherein the first input gear is mechanically connected with the input shaft and the second gear, wherein the first input gear provides a first displacement in a first direction, and wherein the second gear provides a displacement in a second direction that is different than the first direction.

17. The housing of claim 13, further comprising: a first sidewall; a second sidewall positioned opposite from the first sidewall relative to a center of the headrail, the second sidewall separated from the first sidewall by a third opening; and a bridge extending across the third opening for connecting the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the bridge comprising a protrusion that corresponds to a recess in the headrail, the recess configured to receive the protrusion.

18. The housing of claim 13, further comprising: sidewalls that include fingers and define a third opening and a fourth opening opposite of the third opening; and a power storage system comprising: a battery positionable in the housing through the third opening and surrounded at least partially by the fingers; and a printed circuit board (PCB) having an interface that extends through the fourth opening.

19. A method comprising: positioning a power storage system in a housing of an architectural structure covering, wherein the housing comprises: a first opening configured to receive an input shaft; a second opening configured to receive an output shaft, wherein at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft is configured to move a covering material of the architectural structure covering, and a diverter shaft positioned in the housing to have an offset from at least one of the input shaft or the output shaft and configured to be mechanically coupled with the input shaft and the output shaft; and positioning the housing in a headrail of the architectural structure covering.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: mechanically coupling the input shaft and the output shaft with the diverter shaft, wherein the input shaft is mechanically coupled with a motor of the architectural structure covering.