Patent Application
20230349231
The disclosed embodiments relate generally to the field of tracks and track assemblies for retractable screens, and more particularly, to adjustable roller tube assemblies, self-tensioning magnetic tracks and track assemblies, and anchor systems for motorized retractable screens.
Over the past two decades, motorized retractable screens have gained popularity due to their utility and versatility for temporarily enclosing spaces. For example, many restaurants and other businesses having patios/outdoor areas utilize retractable screens to temporarily enclose these areas thereby creating environmentally controlled areas that are shielded from inclement weather conditions (e.g., windy and/or cold weather conditions).
While these retractable screens have great versatility and utility, several problems exist with the currently marketed screens and tracks/track assemblies. For example, the currently marketed tracks and track assemblies are fixed tracks that maintain the screen in a tight, aesthetically pleasing manner once the screen has been deployed. Although these fixed tracks/track assemblies maintain the screen in a tight, aesthetically pleasing manner, these fixed tracks allow for very little play (e.g., expansion and/or contraction) of the screen during, for example, high wind conditions. Consequently, during high wind conditions, these screens may (1) twist, buckle, and/or warp the fixed tracks/track assemblies, (2) damage the screen, or (3) any combination thereof. These problems lead to frequent, costly repairs and/or replacement of the fixed tracks/track assemblies and screens. Another problem with current retractable screen system is that stretching of screen material, wrinkling/creasing of screen material, sagging of a roller tube, uneven weight distribution or tension, and/or, bunching of screen materials on a roller tube may cause undesirable artifacts to become visible in the screen.
In one or more arrangements, a retractable screen system is provided. The system includes a roller tube having an exterior surface. A screen is connected to the roller tube and an upper edge of the screen. The screen rolls up around the exterior surface of the roller tube when the roller tube is rotated in a first direction, thereby retracting the screen, and unroll the screen from roller tube when the roller tube is rotated the opposite direction, thereby deploying the screen.
In one of more embodiments, the system includes track assemblies configured to operably connect side edges of the screen to a structure. In one or more arrangements, the track assemblies utilize a novel arrangement of magnets in the track assemblies that allow a screen attached thereto to expand while under high wind pressure/conditions. Specifically, in the track and track assemblies, magnets having opposite polarity separate from one another allowing for screen expansion while subjected to high wind pressure. However, after the high wind pressure subsides, the magnetic attraction of the separated magnets pulls the separated magnets into close proximity relative to one another while concurrently tensioning the screen to provide for an aesthetically pleasing, tight screen.
In one or more arrangements, the track assemblies each include a track having a first side wall and a second side wall. In one or more arrangements, the track assemblies each include a screen receiver positioned within the track between the first side wall and the second side wall. The screen receiver is configured to operably connect with and hold the first side edge of the screen while permitting the screen to be raised and lowered. In one or more arrangements, a first retainer is connected to the first side wall of the track and a second retainer connected to the second side wall of the track. The first retainer and the second retainer are configured to prevent the screen receiver from coming out of the track.
Additional features, aspects and advantages provided by some various embodiments are set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the specification, figures and claims described herein.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the principles and scope of the disclosed arrangements. It is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements and procedures, and the scope of the appended claims therefore should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements and procedures. For instance, although aspects and features may be illustrated in or described with reference to certain figures or embodiments, it will be appreciated that features from one figure or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure or embodiment even though the combination is not explicitly shown or explicitly described as a combination. In the depicted embodiments, like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the various drawings.
It should be understood that any advantages and/or improvements discussed herein may not be provided by various disclosed embodiments, or implementations thereof. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which provide such advantages or improvements. Similarly, it should be understood that various embodiments may not address all or any objects of the disclosure that may be described herein. The contemplated embodiments are not so limited and should not be interpreted as being restricted to embodiments which address such objects of the disclosure. Furthermore, although some disclosed embodiments may be described relative to specific materials, embodiments are not limited to the specific materials or apparatuses but only to their specific characteristics and capabilities and other materials and apparatuses can be substituted as is well understood by those skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure.
It is to be understood that the terms such as “left, right, top, bottom, front, back, side, height, length, width, upper, lower, interior, exterior, inner, outer, and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit the embodiments to any particular orientation or configuration.
As used herein, the term “and/or” includes all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, such that “A and/or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A as well as B,” unless it is clearly indicated that only a single item, subgroup of items, or all items are present. The use of “etc.” is defined as “et cetera” and indicates the inclusion of all other elements belonging to the same group of the preceding items, in any “and/or” combination(s).
As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include both the singular and plural forms, unless the language explicitly indicates otherwise. Indefinite articles like “a” and “an” introduce or refer to any modified term, both previously-introduced and not, while definite articles like “the” refer to a same previously-introduced term; as such, it is understood that “a” or “an” modify items that are permitted to be previously-introduced or new, while definite articles modify an item that is the same as immediately previously presented. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not themselves preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, characteristics, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof, unless expressly indicated otherwise. For example, if an embodiment of a system is described at comprising an article, it is understood the system is not limited to a single instance of the article unless expressly indicated otherwise, even if elsewhere another embodiment of the system is described as comprising a plurality of articles.
It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “mated,” “attached,” “fixed,” etc. to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, and/or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected,” “directly coupled,” “directly engaged” etc. to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” “engaged” versus “directly engaged,” etc.). Similarly, a term such as “operatively”, such as when used as “operatively connected” or “operatively engaged” is to be interpreted as connected or engaged, respectively, in any manner that facilitates operation, which may include being directly connected, indirectly connected, electronically connected, wirelessly connected or connected by any other manner, method or means that facilitates desired operation. Similarly, a term such as “communicatively connected” includes all variations of information exchange and routing between two electronic devices, including intermediary devices, networks, etc., connected wirelessly or not. Similarly, “connected” or other similar language particularly for electronic components is intended to mean connected by any means, either directly or indirectly, wired and/or wirelessly, such that electricity and/or information may be transmitted between the components.
It will be understood that, although the ordinal terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited to any order by these terms unless specifically stated as such. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another; where there are “second” or higher ordinals, there merely must be a number of elements, without necessarily any difference or other relationship. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of example embodiments or methods.
Similarly, the structures and operations discussed herein may occur out of the order described and/or noted in the figures. For example, two operations and/or figures shown in succession may in fact be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved. Similarly, individual operations within example methods described below may be executed repetitively, individually or sequentially, to provide looping or other series of operations aside from single operations described below. It should be presumed that any embodiment or method having features and functionality described below, in any workable combination, falls within the scope of example embodiments. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), or analogous law in applicable, jurisdictions, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for”.
As used herein, various disclosed embodiments may be primarily described in the context of retractable roller shades. However, the embodiments are not so limited. It is appreciated that the embodiments may be adapted for use in various other applications, which may be improved by the disclosed structures, arrangements and/or methods. The support system is merely shown and described as being used in the context of retractable roller shades for ease of description and as one of countless examples.
With reference to the figures, a retractable screen system 10 (or simply system 10) is presented. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the retractable screen system 10, includes a housing 12, a screen 14, roller tube assembly 16, a motor assembly 18 (not shown), track assemblies 20, and a bottom bar assembly 22, among other components. In one or more arrangements, when installed, system 10 is configured to move screen 14 between an extended position and a retracted position to selectably close off or open an opening 26 of a structure 24 having opposing sides 28, an upper end 30, and a lower end 32. Openings 26 may include but are not limited to, for example, windows, doorways, skylights, archways, or any other type of opening. In one or more arrangements, roller tube assembly 16, and motor assembly 18 are positioned along an upper end 30 of opening 26 and operably connect with screen 14 to extend/retract screen 14 during operation. Track assemblies 20 are positioned along each side 28 of opening 26 and operably connect with and guide screen 14 along sides 28 of opening 26 when screen is extended/retracted.
Housing 12 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to house and hold various components of the system 10 so as to facilitate function of the system 10 as well as to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance, as is further described herein. In the arrangement shown, as one example, housing 12 has an elongated generally rectangular shape having a front 34, back 36, a top 38, and bottom 40 extending a length between opposing outward ends 42, end caps 44, and bracket members 46 among other components, features, and elements.
Back 36 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to form a portion of housing 12 and enclose the rear side of housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, back 36 is a generally planar shaped member that extends from an upper edge 50 to a lower edge 52 between the opposing outward ends 42 of housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when housing 12 is installed in a rear-mount application, fasteners 48, such as screws, bolts, staples, nails, rivets, or the like extend through back 36 and into the structure to which housing 12 is installed. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, back 36 may be secured to a structure using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners, and/or any other connection means or method.
Front 34 may also be referred to or known as in the industry as a fascia. Front 34 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to form a portion of housing 12 and enclose the front side of housing 12. In one example arrangement shown, as one example, front 34 has an elongated slightly curved generally planar shape that extends from an upper edge 54 to a lower edge 56 between the opposing outward ends 42 of housing 12.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper edge of front 34 connects to the forward edge of top 38. In this example arrangement, a curved corner section connects the lower edge 56 of the front 34 to a forward edge of bottom 40. However, any other shape is hereby contemplated for use as front 34 including but not limited to, for example, a planar shape, a multi-faceted shape, a contoured shape, or any other shape that provides a different aesthetic appearance.
Top 38 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to form a portion of housing 12 and enclose the upper side of housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, top 38 is a generally planar shaped member that extends between front edge 58 and rear edge 60 between the opposing outward ends 42 or housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the rear edge 60 of top 38 connects to the upper edge 50 of back 36, the front edge 58 of top 38 connects to the upper edge 54 of front 34.
In one or more arrangements, when housing 12 is installed in a top-mount application, fasteners 48 extend through top 38 and into the structure to which housing 12 is installed. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, top 38 may be secured to a structure using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners, and/or any other connection means or method.
Bottom 40 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to form a portion of housing 12 and enclose the lower side of housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom 40 is a generally planar shaped member that extends rearward between the opposing outward ends 42 from a front edge 62, where bottom 40 connects to lower edge 56 of front 34, to a rear edge 64. In the arrangement shown, as one example, housing 12 has an elongated opening 66 in bottom 40 extending between rear edge 64 of bottom 40 and lower edge 52 or back 36 a length between the opposing outward ends 42. This opening 66, which may also be referred to as a slot, allows for passage of screen 14 to pass there through while the screen 14 is lowered or raised during operation. In one or more arrangements, housing 12 has woolpile brushes 68 connected to lower edge 52 of back and rear edge 64 of bottom 40. Woolpile brushes 68 seal gaps between screen 14 and lower edge 52 of housing 12f and between screen 14 and rear edge 64 of housing 12.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, housing 12 includes an end cap 44 positioned at each outward end 42 of housing 12. End caps 44 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to form sides of housing 12 and enclose the outward ends 42 of housing 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, end caps 44 are generally planar shaped members extending between a top edge 72, a bottom edge 74, a front edge 76, and a rear edge 78 that respectfully align and connect with front 34, back 36, top 38, and bottom 40 at outward ends 42 of housing 12. In one or more arrangements, end caps 44 have one or more tabs 80 that extend inward from top edge 72, a bottom edge 74, a front edge 76, and/or a rear edge 78 to facilitate connection with front 34, back 36, top 38, and/or bottom 40. In one or more arrangements, when housing 12 is installed in a side-mount application, fasteners 48 extend through end caps 44 and into the structure to which housing 12 is installed. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, end caps 44 may be secured to a structure using various additional or alternative means and/or methods.
Bracket members 46 (not shown) are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to facilitate connection of roller tube assembly 16 to housing 12. In one or more arrangements, bracket members are positioned proximate to outward ends 42 of housing 12 inward of end caps 44.
In the arrangement shown, once assembled housing 12 forms a hollow interior 84 that houses and holds roller tube assembly 16 therein. In one or more arrangements, as one example, front 34, back 36, top 38, bottom 40 and/or end caps 44 may connect to one another using various known method and/or means including but not limited to, for example, clamps, snaps, pins, fasteners, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, and/or any other connection means or method for connecting. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more arrangements, one or more groups of front 34, back 36, top 38, bottom 40 and/or end caps 44 may be formed as unitary members.
However, the embodiments are not limited to the housing 12 shapes and/or components described herein. Rather, it is contemplated that any other size, shape, design, or configuration is hereby contemplated for use as housing 12. In an alternative arrangement, no housing 12 is used and instead in this arrangement, roller tube assembly 16 is connected to and/or held in place by bracket members 46 alone without the use of front 34, back 36, top 38 and/or bottom 40.
Screen 14 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to extend across an opening 26 of a structure 24 and operably connect with roller tube assembly 16 positioned at upper end 30 of opening 26 and with track assemblies 20 positioned on sides 28 of opening 26. In one or more arrangements, screen 14 is formed of a generally rectangular sheet of material 96 extending between a top edge 90, a bottom edge 92, opposing side edges 94.
In various different arrangements, the screen 14 may formed of various different materials to provide various different features/functions for different applications. Such features/functions may include but are not limited to, for example, shade, privacy, barrier and/or protection from adverse environmental elements (wind, rain, insects, extreme temperatures, blowing sand and/or objects, etc.), and/or any other features/function that may be desirable. In various different arrangements, materials 96 may be formed of various known materials including but not limited to, for example, natural fibers (e.g., cotton), carbon fiber, Kevlar, aramid, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, nylon, modacrylic olefin, acrylic, polyester, or other synthetic fiber, and/or plastic sheeting, or any other screen material.
As one illustrative example, in an installation in an indoor/outdoor living space, material 96 of screen 14 may be formed of a mesh material selected to permit exchange of air with the outside while providing shade and providing a barrier from mosquitos. In the same indoor/outdoor space, material 96 of screen 14 may alternatively be formed of a translucent or transparent flexible plastic material, for example, to enclose of the space from the outside in colder months, while preserving visibility of the outdoors. As another illustrative example, in one or more arrangements, system 10 may be installed on the exterior of windows, doors, and/or other openings 26 of a structure 24 to protect the openings 26 from damage due to flying debris during high wind events (e.g., hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, among other weather occurrences). For such application, in one or more embodiments, material 96 of screen 14 may be formed of extra-strength screen material that is strong enough to withstand hurricane force winds. Such material for screen 14 may include but is not limited to a ballistic material such as Kevlar, an aramid, an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, or a similarly strong material. As yet another illustrative example, in one or more arrangements, system 10 may include a screen 14 having material 96 with reflective properties suitable for use as a projection screen.
In one or more arrangements screen 14 may be formed of a combination of materials to provide a combination of desired features/functionality provided. For example, in one of more arrangements, screen 14 includes a mesh-type material 96 (e.g., to provide airflow and an insect barrier for an indoor/outdoor area) and a window 98 of translucent or transparent flexible plastic material positioned in a center of the material 96 to provide better view of the outdoors.
In one or more arrangements, screen 14 includes interlocks 100 extending alongside edges 94 of screen 14 to facilitate operable connection of screen 14 with screen receivers 146 of track assemblies 20. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more arrangements, screen 14 includes an interlock 102 extending along top edge 90 of screen 14 to facilitate operable connection of screen 14 with roller tube assembly 16. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more arrangements, screen 14 includes an interlock 104 extending along bottom edge 92 of screen 14 to facilitate operable connection of screen 14 with bottom bar assembly 22.
Interlocks 100/102/104 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and are configured to operably connect screen with a connection feature of screen receivers 146 of track assemblies 20 (and/or roller tube assembly 16 and/or bottom bar assembly 22). In the arrangement shown, interlocks 100/102/104 are circular shaped interlocks (sometime referred to as keder interlocks) that are configured to be inserted into and held within a c-shaped channel of screen receivers 146 of track assemblies 20 (or roller tube assembly 16). However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that interlocks 100/102/104 may be implemented using various types of interlocks including but not limited to, for example, keder interlocks, zipper interlocks, rope, beaded chain, low-profile interlocks or any similar interlock known in the art).
In one example implementation, interlocks 100/102/104 include an elongated length of seam material 108 that is folded lengthwise around a length of circular cord 106 and attached to material 96 along an edge of screen 14. In some various arrangements, seam material 108 of interlocks 100/102/104 may be attached to screen 14 using various techniques known in the art, and/or various combinations thereof such as adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, staples, rivets, and/or any other connection means or any combination thereof. Some additional interlocks implementations are discussed in more detail in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2021/0262284 titled “Retractable Screen Systems” and published Aug. 26, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Roller tube assembly 16 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to connect to housing 12 as well as facilitate the connection of screen 14 to housing 12 while facilitating the opening and closing of screen 14. In the arrangement shown, roller tube assembly 16 includes a roller tube 114 configured to operably connect with bracket members 46 of housing 12.
Roller tube 114 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design upon which screen 14 may wrap around to facilitate opening or closing of screen 14 when roller tube 114 is rotated. For instance, when roller tube assembly 16 rotates in a first rotational direction, screen 14 wraps around the exterior surface of the roller tube 114 thereby opening the screen 14, and when roller tube assembly 16 rotates in a second rotational direction, opposite the first rotational direction, screen 14 unwraps from around roller tube 114 thereby closing screen 14.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, roller tube 114 is a generally elongated cylindrical shaped exterior surface 122 that extends a length between opposing ends 116.
In one or more arrangements, system 10 may utilize an interlock 102 to connect the upper end of screen 14 to a receiver 124 of roller tube 114.
Receiver 124 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to receive and hold onto top edge 90 of screen 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, receiver 124 is a c-shaped channel 126 in an exterior surface 122 configured to receive and hold a circular interlock 102 via an opening 128 at an outer end of channel 126. However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, channel 126 may be shaped to receive an interlock 102 of any shape (e.g., circular, triangular, square, rectangular shape, T-shaped, V-shaped, L-shaped, U-shaped, or any other shape). Moreover, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, receivers 124 may additionally or alternatively connect with screen 14 using various known method and/or means including but not limited to, for example, clamps, snaps, pins, fasteners, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, and/or any other connection means or method for connecting.
In one or more arrangements, interlocks 100 positioned on side edges 94 of screen 14 facilitate operable connection with screen receivers 146 of track assemblies 20. For example, in one or more arrangements, interlocks 100 positioned on side edges 94 are inserted into openings 170 of channels 166 at upper end 160 of screen receivers 146 of track assemblies 20. Screen 14 may be retracted by rotating roller tube assembly 16 and thereby rolling screen 14 up around exterior surface 122 of roller tube 114 and/or exterior surface 134 of length adjustment member 120. However, interlocks 100 are generally thicker than material 96 of screen 14, for example, in order to be held in place by screen receivers 146. In some implementations, seams 108, where interlocks 100 attach to screen 14, may have a thickness between that of material 96 and cords 106 of the interlocks 100. Due to the differences in thickness, cords 106 and/or seams 108 of interlocks 100 will add more to circumference when rolled around a tube than will material 96 of screen 14. If circumference is increased at a side edge 94 of screen 14, e.g., by an interlock 100, each rotation of roller tube 114 will cause more screen 14 to be rolled up at the edge in comparison to other points along roller tube 114, which may create undesirable defects 118 to be visible in screen 14 such as edge wrinkles. In one or more embodiments, roller tube assembly 16 includes length adjustment members 120 operably connected to roller tube 114.
Length adjustment members 120 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to adjust effective length of roller tube 114. As used herein, “effective length” refers to the combined length of a combination of roller tube 114 and any members attached to ends of the roller tube (e.g., length adjustment members 120). As an illustrative example, consider a hypothetical tube extending 48 inches between opposing ends of the hypothetical tube. If a 3-inch length extension member is attached to one end of the hypothetical tube, the effective length of the tube is 51 inches. If that same 3-inch extension member is slid outward two inches, the effective length of the tube is 53 inches.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, length adjustment member 120 is a generally cylindrical shaped collar having an exterior surface 134 extending between opposing ends 132. In one or more arrangements, the cylindrical exterior surface 134 of length adjustment member 120 has similar shape to that of exterior surface 122 of roller tube 114, for example, with c-shaped channels of one or more receivers 144 extending between ends 132 to facilitate insertion of interlock 102 into the c-shaped channels 126 of receivers 124 of roller tube 114. However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one of more arrangements, c-shaped channels 126/receivers 124 may be omitted from length adjustment member 120. In such embodiments, interlock 102 at top edge 90 of screen 14 may be inserted into c-shaped channels 126/receivers 124 of roller tube 114 prior to attaching length adjustment member 120.
In the arrangement shown, length adjustment member 120 has a collar shape configured to fit over and operably connected to an end 116 of roller tube 114 by a connection member 136 such as an inner tube or axle.
In various implementations, the effective length may be adjusted using various mechanisms including, for example, by changing the position where length adjustment member 120 is attached to connection member 136 and/or the position where connection member 136 attaches to roller tube 114. The position at which connection member 136 attaches to roller tube 114 and/or length adjustment member 120 may be secured using any manner, method or means known in the art including but not limited to, for example, fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, staples, rivets, and the like) compression collar, threading, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, and/or any other connection means or method.
In one or more arrangements, length adjustment member 120 may be moved to and secured at an infinite number of positions relative to roller tube 114, thereby facilitating adjustment of effective length to an infinite number of different lengths.
In one or more arrangements, system 10 includes multiple fixed length adjustment members 120 of different lengths that can be added and/or removed from roller tube 114 to facilitate adjustment of roller tube 114 to various effective lengths, as required. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more arrangements, length adjustment member 120 may be adjustable in length. For example, in one or more arrangements, length adjustment member 120 may have a telescopic arrangement allowing length of length adjustment member 120 to be increased or decreased as required.
By adjusting the effective length of roller tube 114, system 10 may be adjusted so screen 14 extends beyond ends 116 of roller tube 114 to accommodate the thicker interlock 100 (e.g., cord 106 and/or seams 108) and thereby prevent interlocks 100 from increasing circumference when screen 14 is rolled up.
Similarly, the effective length of roller tube 114 may be adjusted so that screen 14, seam 108, and/or cord 106 of interlock 100 engages the exterior surface of roller tube 114 and/or length adjustment member 120 as roller tube 114 is turned. By adjusting the effective length so either screen 14, seam 108, and/or cord 106 of interlock 100 are rolled up as roller tube 114 is turned, the effective rate at which one side of screen 14 is deployed or retracted as roller tube 114 is rotated may be adjusted.
With reference to
With reference to
With reference to
While three effective length positions are illustrated, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more embodiments, length adjustment members 120 (e.g., length adjustment member 120 and connection member 136) may be adjustable to a greater or lesser number of positions. It is further contemplated that, in one or more embodiments, length adjustment members 120 may be adjustable to an infinite number of positions.
When screen 14 extends beyond roller tube assembly 16 (e.g., end of roller tube 114 or end of length adjustment member 120), more space is available to accommodate interlock 104 (e.g., cord 106 and seam 108) when screen 14 is rolled up around roller tube 114/length adjustment member 120. However, it has been observed that creases may be formed in screen 14 over time by the end of roller tube assembly 16. It has been surprisingly discovered that providing a curved edge on the ends of roller tube assembly 16 (e.g., outward outer end 132 of length adjustment members 120) helps to prevent the formation of creases in screen 14, even when rolled up for long durations of time.
In one or more arrangements, length adjustment members 120 have a curved section 138 at an outer one of the ends 132; thereby permitting screen 14 to extend beyond the ends of length adjustment member 120 without forming creases in screen 14.
In this example arrangement, curved section 138 of length adjustment members 120 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to provide a curved exterior surface for support of portions of screen 14 that overhang roller tube assembly 16.
In one arrangement shown, as one example, curved section 138 has a generally cylindrical shaped exterior surface extending from an inner end 142, where diameter of curved section 138 matches that of roller tube 114 to an outer end 140, where curved section 138 has a smaller diameter. In this example, exterior surface 142 has a curved shape that reduces in diameter from inner end 142 to outer end 140. In one or more embodiments, the exterior surface of curved section 138 is shaped to have a smooth curve substantially free of edges, bevels, and/or other transitions that are sharp enough to cause creases to form in a screen 14 overlaid thereon.
In some embodiments, curved section 138 may be formed as a unitary portion of length adjustment member 120. However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, curved section may be a separate component (e.g., an endcap) configured to attach to an end 132 length adjustment members 120.
Although curved section 138 is primarily described as being formed on outer ends 132 of length adjustment members 120, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, in some various arrangements, one or both length adjustment member 120 may be omitted and screen 14 may hand over an end 116 of roller tube 114. In such arrangements, an end 116 of roller tube 114 may include a curved section (not shown) to similarly prevent creases from forming in screen 14.
As an illustrative example, porches of homes often have floors sloped away from houses to ensure rainwater flows away from the house. The installation of retractable screen systems 10 on sloped sides of a porch can be a particular challenge as it may be desirable for a bottom of screen 14 to be parallel to the slope of the floor. As a result, the side of screen 14 closer to the house may need to be shorter than the side that is further from the house when screen 14 is deployed in order to be flush with the floor. However, if screen 14 is evenly wrapped around roller tube assembly 16, a portion of screen 14 will remain deployed when the short side is fully retracted. Consistent with one or more embodiments, an installation technician may adjust the effective length of roller tube assembly 16 via length adjustable members 35 so that the thicker seam 108 and/or cord 106 of interlock 100 on the longer side of screen 14 rolls up around roller tube assembly 16 when rotated. In this manner, the installation technician can adjust the amount that the longer side of screen 14 will retract more per rotation of roller tube assembly 16, relative to the shorter side thereby balancing out the screen 14 to raise and lower evenly and perfectly.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 having track assemblies 20 includes a motor assembly 18. Motor assembly 18 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate motorized operation of system 10.
Motor assembly 18 may be formed of any form of a motor and may be connected to roller tube assembly 16 in any manner that facilitates rotation of roller tube assembly 16. In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor assembly 18 is an electric motor that is positioned within the hollow interior of roller tube assembly 16 adjacent an end of roller tube assembly 16. Positioning motor assembly 18 within the hollow interior of roller tube assembly 16 provides a sleek arrangement wherein motor assembly 18 is contained within other components of the system 10 thereby minimizing the size and space requirements for the system 10.
In one arrangement, as is shown, motor assembly 18 is a self-contained assembly including a motor, gear assembly, drive wheel and electronic controller assembly, among other components. In this self-contained assembly arrangement, with the installation of a single component, the motor assembly 18 within roller tube assembly 16 the system 10 is motorized, which provides convenience, minimal installation, ease of use and an aesthetic appearance. In one arrangement, motor assembly 18 is controlled by passing control signals to the motor assembly 18 through a wired connection. In another arrangement, motor assembly 18 is controlled by wireless control by passing control signals to the motor assembly 18 through a wireless connection to an antenna connected to motor assembly 18.
In one arrangement, motor assembly 18 is connected to an external power source by a wired connection such as by connection to line power of a house or building thereby providing motor assembly 18 an unlimited power source. Alternatively, motor assembly 18 is connected to a battery power source, a solar module or solar cell, or any combination thereof such as connection to line power with battery back-up and a solar cell for recharging the batteries is hereby contemplated for use.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, once the roller tube assembly 16 is assembled, with motor assembly 18 therein, the roller tube assembly 16 is installed within the hollow interior 84 of housing 12. In doing so, the outward ends of roller tube assembly 16 are connected to the bracket members 46 and the roller tube assembly 16 is able to rotate within the hollow interior 84 of housing 12 thereby raising and/or lowering the screen 14 through opening 66, thereby raising and/or lowering bottom bar assembly 22 along with screen 14.
Track assemblies 20 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and are configured to operably connect side edges 94 of screen 14 with sides 28 of opening 26 while permitting screen 14 to be moved upward and downward along track assemblies 20. In the arrangement shown, as one example, track assemblies 20 each include a screen receiver 146, a track I, and retainers 150, among other components.
Screen receiver 146 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to be positioned within elongate channel 186 of track 148 and operably connect side edge 94 of screen 14 with track 148. In the arrangement shown, as one example, screen receiver 146 has an elongated generally rectangular planar shaped body 154 having a screen side surface 156 and an opposing side surface 158 extending between opposing side edges 164 from an upper end 160 to a lower end 162. In this example arrangement, screen receiver 146 has a first channel 166 positioned on the screen side surface 156. Channel 166 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to receive and hold a side interlock 100 connected to a side edge 94 of screen 14 while permitting screen 14 to be moved upward and downward in operation. In the arrangement shown, as one example, channel 166 is a c-shaped channel configured to receive and hold side circular interlock 100 via opening 170 of c-shaped channel 166 at upper end 160 of screen receiver 146. However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, channel 126 may be shaped to receive an interlock 100 of any shape (e.g., circular, triangular, square, rectangular shape, T-shape, V-shape, L-shape, U-shape, or any other shape).
In one or more arrangements, screen receiver 146 includes a second channel 172 positioned on opposing side surface 158 of body 154 of screen receiver 146. Channel 172 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to receive and hold a magnetic component 220 to facilitate magnetic coupling of screen receiver 146 with track 148. In the arrangement shown, channel 172 is a c-shaped channel configured to receive and hold a generally rectangular magnetic component 220 that are inserted into channel 172 via openings 176 at upper end 160 or lower end 162. Magnetic component 220 may then be moved to a desired position along channel 172 (e.g., to align with a magnetic component 218 of track 148) and secured in place. In one or more arrangements, magnetic component 220 is secured in place by placing crimps 178 in channel 172 on each side of magnetic component 220. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that magnetic component 220 may be secured at a desired position in channel 172 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, crimping, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners (e.g., staples, screws, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.), and/or any other connection means or method).
In one arrangement, screen receiver 146 includes a funnel 180. Funnel 180 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured help facilitate the insertion of interlock 100 into the c-shaped channel 166 of screen receiver 146. In the arrangement shown, as one example, a funnel 180 is shown connected to opening 170 of channel 166 at the upper end of the screen receiver 146 so as to facilitate the insertion of interlock 100. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper end of funnel 180 is generally cone shaped and is angled such that it widens as it extends upward.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, funnel 180 includes an arm 182 that extends downward from the lower end of the cone of funnel 180 that fits within a channel 172 of screen receiver 146 that receives the magnets of the screen receiver 146. The engagement between the arm 182 within the channel 172 connects funnel 180 to screen receiver 146. However, any other manner, method or means of connecting funnel 180 to screen receiver 146 is hereby contemplated for use such as fastening, screwing, bolting, welding, crimping, pinning, adhering, friction fitting or the like. In the arrangement shown, as one example the cone at the upper end of funnel 180 includes a slot 184. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when arm 182 of funnel 180 is inserted within the channel 172 of screen receiver 146, the slot 184 of funnel 180 aligns with the open slot in channel 172 thereby providing access for screen material 96 into the slot of screen receiver 146. The installation of funnel 180 eases the insertion of screen material 96 and interlock 100 into screen receiver 146. In addition, by adding funnel 180 as a second separate piece, which is preferably made out of a smooth yet durable plastic, this reduces the cost of the system 10 while improving performance and longevity.
Track 148 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to be attached to structure 24 along a side 28 of opening 26 and provide an elongate channel 186 configured to receive and hold screen receiver 146 when track assembly 20 is assembled.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, track 148 has a generally rectangular elongated shape extending from an upper end 188 to a lower end 190 with opposing side walls 192 extending between a screen facing side 196 and a screen opposing side 198. In the arrangement shown, elongate channel 186 is a generally c-shaped channel formed by the side walls 192 and an end wall 202 extending between the opposing side wall 192 with a channel opening 200 in screen facing side 196.
In one or more arrangements, elongate channel 186 is configured to receive and hold screen receiver 146 within a compartment 206 between side walls 192 that is formed by a set of inner partitions 210 and a set of outer partitions 214. Inner partitions 210 are positioned on opposing side walls 192 closer towards screen facing side 196 and extend inward a distance towards the interior of the elongate channel 186. Outer partitions 214 are positioned on opposing side walls 192 further from screen facing side 196 and extend inward a distance towards the interior of the elongate channel 186. The compartment 206 is adapted to securely receive the screen receiver 146 while allowing for lateral movement of screen receiver 146 toward and away from screen 14 between inner partitions 210 and outer partitions 214.
In one arrangement, system 10 is used in association with a hurricane bracket 370. Hurricane bracket 370 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to strengthen system 10 so that it can withstand hurricane strength winds. In many applications of system 10, hurricanes and other wind events are present. To combat damage from hurricanes, as well as to meet hurricane building codes, in one arrangement, a hurricane bracket 370 is used which strengthens magnetic track assembly 20, or more specifically elongate channel 186, so that it will not deform and allow screen receiver 146 to escape the hollow compartment 146 of elongate channel 186 even under the strongest of winds.
With reference to
For additional information on structure and operation of some example hurricane brackets, reference may be made to U.S. Patent Publication 2021/0262284, titled
“RETRACTABLE SCREEN SYSTEMS” and published Aug. 26, 2021, which is hereby fully incorporate by reference herein.
In one or more arrangements, track assemblies 20 utilize a novel magnet arrangement in the track assemblies that allow screen receiver 146 to move laterally inward, and thereby allowing an attached screen 14 to expand while under high wind pressure and thereby avoid ripping or other damage, and after the high wind pressure subsides, magnetic attraction pulls the screen receiver 146 outward thereby tensioning the attached screen 14 to provide an aesthetically pleasing, tight screen. Thus, the novel magnet arrangement of the disclosed track assemblies 20 provide a “self-tensioning” system that operates effectively while accounting for fluctuations in weather conditions that ensures increased screen 14 and track assembly 20 lifespan while currently reducing frequent maintenance (and/or replacement) associated with currently marketed screens, track/track assemblies, or a combination thereof.
In one or more embodiments, track assembly 20 includes a set of magnetic components 218 and 220 (e.g., a pair of magnets having opposite polarity or a magnet paired with a ferrous material or magnetic member) to magnetically couple screen receiver 146 with track 148. For example, in one or more arrangements, a first magnetic component 218 is operably connected to end wall 202 of track 148 and a second magnetic component 220 is operably connected to screen receiver 146. Due to the magnetic coupling, the screen receiver 146 is pulled away from screen into elongate channel 186 to a retracted position, where magnetic components 218 and 220 are in close proximity to one another. In the retracted position, screen receiver tensions screen 14 to provide for an aesthetically pleasing, tight screen 14 in absence of strong forces applied to screen 14. When screen 14 is subjected to high wind pressure or other strong force, magnetic components 218 and 220 may be separated from one another allowing for screen receiver 146 to move inward to an extended position were applied to screen 14 is relaxed. In one or more arrangements, screen receiver 146 is prevented from being pulled out of elongate channel 186 of track 148 by screen 14 by inner partitions 210 and/or retainers 150. After the high wind pressure subsides, the magnetic attraction pulls the separated pair of magnetic components 218 and 220 into close proximity relative to one another while concurrently tensioning screen 14 to provide for an aesthetically pleasing, tight screen 14.
In one or more arrangements, outer partitions 214 similarly extend inward a distance sufficient to engage screen receiver 146 to limit the distance that screen receiver 146 can move outward away from screen and into elongate channel 186 of track 148. In one or more arrangements, outer partitions 214 are positioned to permit screen receiver 146 move outward to a retracted position, where magnetic components 218 and 220 are in close proximity but prevent magnetic components 218 and 220 from coming into forceful contact with one another.
Conversely, in one or more arrangements, inner partitions 210 extend inward a distance sufficient to engage screen receiver 146 to limit the distance that screen receiver 146 can move inward toward screen 14 when screen receiver 146 is pulled inward (e.g., due to strong wind). In this example arrangement, channel opening 200 between inner partitions 210 is wide enough to permit screen receiver 146 to be rotated within compartment 206 and removed from elongate channel 186 of track 148 through channel opening 200 at an angle. In this example arrangement, retainers 150 may be attached to track 148 to prevent screen receiver 146 from being removed from elongate channel 186 of track 148 through channel opening 200 even when rotated at an angle.
However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some arrangements, channel opening 200 between inner partitions is wide enough to permit screen receiver 146 to be removed from elongate channel 186 of track 148 through channel opening 200 without rotating screen receiver 146. In such arrangements, retainers 150 are attached to track 148 to prevent screen receiver 146 from being removed from elongate channel 186 of track 148 through channel opening 200.
Retainers 150 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to operably connect with side walls 192 of track 148 and prevent screen receiver 146 from being removed from compartment 206 of elongate channel 186 of track 148 though channel opening 200.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, retainers 150 have a generally rectangular elongated shape having an inward side 226, an outward side 228, screen facing side 230, and a track facing side 232 extending between an upper end 234 and lower end 236. In this example arrangement, retainers 150 have a first channel 250 formed in and extending along outward side 228 between upper end 234 and lower end 236. In one or more arrangements, channel 250 is a c-shaped channel configured to receive the inner partition 210 of one of side walls 192 of track 148 with close and tight tolerances.
In one or more arrangements, channel 250 of retainers 150 have opposing sidewalls 264 configured to engage and connect with partition 210. In one or more arrangements, retainers 150 have one or more connection features 254 configured to engage one more connection features 256 of partition 210. In the arrangement shown, as one example, retainers 150 have a protrusion type connection feature 254 on one of the sidewalls 264 that is configured to engage a recess type connection feature 256 of partitions 210 when retainers 150 are placed over partitions 210. In this example arrangement, the sidewall 264 opposite connection feature 254 has a sloped surface 268 and a flat surface 270. The sloped surface 268 provides a wider opening between sidewalls 264 to facilitate easier installation of retainers 150 over partition 210. When retainer 150 are installed on partition 210, with connection feature 254 engaging connection feature 256 of partitions 210. the flat surface 270 is in contact with partition 210 and holds retainer 150 in place. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that retainers 150 may connect with partitions 210 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners (e.g., staples, screws, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.), and/or any other connection means or method).
In the arrangement shown, when retainers 150 are attached to partitions 210 of side walls 192, the distance between inward sides 226 of retainer 150 in channel opening 200 is too narrow to permit screen receiver 146 to be removed though channel opening 200. In this manner, retainers 150 prevent screen receiver 146 from being removed from elongate channel 186 of track 148.
In the arrangement shown, retainers 150 are shorter than track 148 and extend along a segment of track 148 when installed (e.g., 8-10 inches). However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, retainers 150 may extend along longer or shorter segments of track 148 and/or may extend along the entire length of track 148.
In one or more arrangements, retainers 150 have a second channel 252 formed in and extending along track facing side 232 between upper end 234 and lower end 236 to facilitate attachment of one or more additional components. In the arrangement shown, as one example, channel 252 is a T-shaped channel. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that channel may be any shape to facilitate connection with components.
In one or more arrangements, track assemblies 20 include one or more compressible members 258 configured to attached to the second channel 252 of retainers 150. Compressible members 258 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to operably connect with second channel 252 of retainers 150 and engage screen side surface 156 of screen receiver 146 to prevent screen receiver 146 from coming into direct forceful contact with retainers 150 when magnetic components 218 and 220 separate and screen receiver 146 is moved inward toward screen 14. In the arrangement shown, compressible members 258 are a length of woolpile 260 having a T-shaped connector 262 configured to be held within channel 252.
However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that some various different arrangements may utilize various materials for compressible members 258 including, but are not limited to various rubbers, plastics, foams, woolpile, brushes, felt or other synthetic or organic textiles, composite materials, nylons, vinyl, ultra-high molecular weight composites or any other suitable material for reducing sound cause by impacts.
Similarly, in one or more arrangements, track assembly 20 may additionally or alternatively include one or more pads of compressible material 266 (not shown) positions at various locations on track 148 and/or on screen receiver 146 to prevent direct metal-on-metal contact as screen receiver 146 moves within compartment 206 of track 148.
In one or more arrangements, track assemblies 20 include one or more retainer extensions 272 configured to attached to the second channel 252 of retainers 150. Retainer extensions 272 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to operably connect with second channel 252 of retainers 150 and restrict a distance that screen receivers 146 may be moved inward toward screen. In the arrangement shown, as one example, retainer extension 272 is configured to keep screen receiver 146 in the retracted position in the section of track 148, where retainer extension 272 is attached to. Retainer extensions 272 may be useful, for example, to maintain higher tension on certain portions of screen 14. For example, it may be desirable in some installations to maintain higher tension on a lower end of screen 14 to prevent bottom bar assembly 22 from bowing too severely in high wind events.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, retainer extensions 272 have a generally rectangular elongated shape having an inward side 276, an outward side 278, screen facing side 280, and a track facing side 282 extending between an upper end 284 and lower end 286. In this example arrangement, retainer extensions 272 have a T-shaped connector 288 extending along track facing side 282. Connector 288 is configured to be held within channel 252 and connect retainer extension 272 with retainer 150. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some arrangements, retainer extensions 272 may be configured to connect with retainers 150 using any shaped connector 288 and channel 252 (e.g., circular, triangular, square, rectangular shape, T-shape, V-shape, L-shape, U-shape, or any other shape).
In one or more arrangements, track assemblies 20 may include end caps 216. End caps 216 may be formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and are configured to connect with and cover upper ends 188 of track 148 and provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. In the arrangement shown, end caps 216 are attached to upper ends 188 of track 148 using fasteners that extend through holds in end caps 216. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, end caps 216 may be attached to upper ends 188 of track 148 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners, and/or any other connection means or method.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a bottom bar assembly 22. Bottom bar assembly 22 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to connect to the bottom edge 92 of screen 14 while providing sufficient weight to the lower end of screen 14 to facilitate smooth opening and closing while also keeping the lower end of screen 14 flat and straight. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom bar assembly 22 includes a bottom bar 300, end brackets 302, a sealing member 304, among other components.
Bottom bar 300 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to connect with, extend across, and provide rigidity to bottom edge 92 of screen 14. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom bar 300 has an elongated generally rectangular shape having a top end 308, a bottom end 310, and opposing sides 312 extending between opposing ends 314.
In one or more arrangements, bottom bar 300 includes one or more hollow interior areas extending 318 between opposing ends 314. The hollow interior areas 318 are configured to receive a weight bar 320 (not shown) (or rod or other shaped material) therein that adds weight to the bottom bar assembly 22.
In the arrangement shown, the bottom end of bottom bar 300 includes a channel 324 that is configured to receive and hold a sealing member 304 therein that is configured to seal the lower end of bottom bar 300 to the ground when the bottom bar 300 is in a fully lowered or closed position. Sealing member 304 may be formed of any device that facilitates a seal such as a piece of woolpile, a strip of foam, a rubber strip, or any form of a sealing member or other compressible member that helps to facilitate a seal when the bottom bar 300 is in a fully lowered position.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, bottom bar 300 has a receiver 328 positioned in top end 308. Receiver 328 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to facilitate connection of the lower end of screen 14 to bottom bar assembly 22. More specifically, in one arrangement, receiver 328 is formed of the exact same or a similar shape as c-shaped channel 166 of screen receiver 146, and/or the receiver 124 as is described herein with respect to screen receiver 146 and/or roller tube assembly 16, respectively. In this arrangement, the lower end of screen 14 includes an interlock 104 that is similar to, if not exactly the same as, the interlocks 100 connected to the side's edges 94 of screen 14 and interlock 102 connected to top edge 90 of screen 14. In the arrangement shown, interlock 104 is a cylindrical shaped interlock and receiver 328 is a c-shaped channel. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, interlock 104 may be formed of any form and/or shape of an interlock including, but not limited to a keder interlock, zipper interlock, a rope, a beaded chain, or any similar interlock known in the art associated with the disclosed retractable screens. Moreover, receiver 328 additionally or alternatively connect with screen 14 using various known method and/or means including but not limited to, for example, clamps, snaps, pins, fasteners, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, and/or any other connection means or method for connecting.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, only a single receiver 328 shown in the bottom bar assembly 22. However, any number of receivers 328 are hereby contemplated for use in the bottom bar assembly 22 such as one, two, three, four, five, six or more. Alternatively, it is hereby contemplated that no receivers 328 are used and instead screen 14 is connected to bottom bar assembly 22 by any other manner, method or means.
In the arrangement shown, a pair of end brackets 302 are connected to the ends 314 of bottom bar 300. End brackets 302 are formed of any suitable, size, shape, and design and are configured to connect with ends 314 of bottom bar 300, connect with interlocks 100 of screen 14, and operably connect bottom bar with tracks 148. In the arrangement shown, as one example, each end bracket 302 has a generally rectangular shaped main body 332 having a bar facing side 334 and track facing side 336 extending between a top 338, a bottom 340, opposing sides 342.
In this example arrangement, end bracket 302 has connection arrangement 344 positioned on bar facing side 334. Connection arrangement 344 is formed of any suitable, size, shape, and design and is configured to connect end bracket 302 with one of the ends 314 of bottom bar 300. In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection arrangement 344 includes one or more protrusions configured to be inserted into one or more hollowing interior areas 318 of bottom bar 300. In this example arrangement, fasteners 346 (not shown) extend through holes 348 and into bottom bar to secure end bracket 302 in place.
However, the embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in various arrangements, connection arrangement 344 may secure end bracket 302 to bottom bar 300 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners (e.g., staples, screws, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.), and/or any other connection means or method.
In the arrangement shown, end bracket 302 has clamp arrangement 352 positioned on track facing side 336. Clamp arrangement 352 is formed of any suitable, size, shape, and design and is configured to receive and clamp onto interlock 100 of screen 14. In the arrangement shown, clamp arrangement 352 is configured to receive and clamp onto a lower portion of interlock 100 of screen 14 that extend downward past the bottom edge 92.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, clamp arrangement 352 includes a first flange 354 and a second flange 356 extending outward in parallel from track facing side 336 of main body 332 of end bracket 302. In this example arrangement, first flange 354 has an opening 358 extending through the first flange 354. In this example arrangement, a plate 360 is positioned in opening 358 and is configured to facilitate clamping of seam material 108 of the lower portion of interlock 100 in a gap 364 positioned between first flange 354 and second flange 356.
In this example arrangement, seam material 108 is clamped between plate 360 and second flange 356 by one or more fasteners 366. In this example arrangement, bolt-type fasteners 366 extend through holes in plate 360 through seam material 108 and connect with threaded members 368 of second flange 356. As fasteners are tightened, plate 360 is moved toward second flange 356 and seam material 108 of interconnect is clamped therebetween. In this example arrangement, because plate is separate from first flange 354, clamping does place stress on first flange 354 and second flange 356 (e.g., as if first flange 354 and second flange 356 were clamped together). In this manner longevity and durability of end brackets 302 are improved.
However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that some various arrangements may utilize additional or alternative means to facilitate clamping. As one example, in some arrangements, seam material 108 is clamped between plate 360 and second flange 356 by one or more self-threading screw-type fasteners 366. In one or more arrangements, such self-threading screw-type fasteners 366 may be configured to screw into second flange 356, In such arrangement, threaded members 368 may be omitted, thereby simplifying manufacture of end bracket 302.
In one or more arrangements, end brackets 302 are configured to extend into channel opening 200 of elongate channel 186 of track 148 to operably connect bottom bar assembly 22 to track 148 and structure 24, and thereby provide additional support for bottom edge 92 of screen in high wind events while permitting screen 14 to be moved up and down. In the arrangement shown, first flange 354 and second flange 356 are configured to extend into channel opening 200 between retainers 150 with close and tight tolerances between retainers 150 and first flange 354 and second flange 356. As screen 14 and bottom bar assembly 22 are raised and lowered these first flange 354 and second flange 356 slide along the interior surface of the channel opening 200 thereby guiding and aligning bottom bar 300 during opening and closing thereby providing smother, more consistent, and quieter operation.
However, embodiments are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that end brackets 302 may be implemented with various alternative structures and/or arrangements to facilitate operable connection of bottom bar assembly 22 to track assemblies 20.
In one or more arrangements, bottom bar assembly 22 includes one or more stop members 430. Stop member 430 is formed of any suitable size, shape, or design and is configured to prevent bottom bar assembly 22 from being pulled into housing 12 when the screen 14 is retracted. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stop member 430 is configured to fit over and attach with bottom bar 300. In this example, arrangement, stop member 430 include a main body 432, a hook 434, and a stop feature 436, among other components.
Main body 432 is formed of any suitable size, shape, or design and is configured to engage a side 312 of bottom bar 300 and support stop feature 436. In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body 432 has a generally rectangular planar shape extending from an upper edge 440 to a lower edge 442 and between opposing side edges 444. In this example arrangement, main body 432 includes a hole 438 to facilitate connection of main body with bottom bar using a fastener (e.g., a bolt or a screw) inserted through hole 438 and into bottom bar after stop member 430 is positioned on bottom bar.
Hook 434 is formed of any suitable size, shape, or design and is configured to operably connect stop member 430 with bottom bar 300. In the arrangement shown, hook 434 has a curved portion 446 that extends upward between opposing side edges 448 from upper edge 440 of main body, following the general contour of bottom bar 300, to a top edge 450. In this example arrangement, hook 434 also includes a flange 452 that extends downward from top edge 450 to a free edge 454. In this example arrangement, when stop member 430 is placed over bottom bar 300, flange 452 of hook 434 extends downward into receiver 328 of bottom bar 300. When downward forces are placed on stop member 430 during operation, flange 452 engages an inner surface of receiver 328 of bottom bar 300 to hold stop member 430 securely in place.
Stop feature 436 is formed of any suitable size, shape, or design and is configured to engage with housing 12 when the screen 14 is retracted. In the arrangement shown, as one example, stop feature 436 has a triangular wedge shape extending outward from main body 432 to an outer edge 458. In this example arrangement, an upper surface of stop feature 436 is configured to engage housing 12 when the screen 14 is retracted and thereby prevent bottom bar 300 from being pulled into housing. In this example arrangement, the wedge shape of stop feature 436 helps to brace stop feature 436 against main body 432 and side 312 of bottom bar 300 in contact with main body 432. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, stop feature 436 may have various additional and/or alternative shapes and/or features.
The arrangements are not so limited to the particular arrangements of stop member 430 shown and/or discussed herein. Rather, it is contemplated that in some various arrangements, stop member 430 may be adapted to have various additional and/or alternative shapes and/or features. Furthermore, in some various arrangements, stop member 430 may be connected to bottom bar 300 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners (e.g., staples, screws, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.), and/or any other connection means or method).
With reference to
Fixed track assembly 380 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to operably connect side edges 94 of screen 14 with sides 28 of opening 26 of structure 24 while permitting screen 14 to be moved upward and downward along fixed track assembly 380.
In the arrangement shown, as one example, fixed track assembly 380 has an elongated generally rectangular shaped body 384 having a front 386, a back 388, and opposing sides 390 extending between opposing ends 392.
In the arrangement shown, fixed track assembly 380 includes a first receiver 398 extending along one of sides 28 to facilitate operable connection with side edge 94 of screen 14 when back 388 of fixed track assembly 380 is mounted against an interior or exterior of structure 24 (e.g., in a surface mount orientation).
In the arrangement shown, fixed track assembly 380 includes a second receiver 400 extending along front 386 to facilitate operable connection with side edge 94 of screen 14 when back 388 of fixed track assembly 380 is mounted against an interior side of opening 26 of structure 24 (e.g., in an end mount orientation).
First receiver 398 and second receiver 400 are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and are configured to receive and hold interlock 100 connected to side edge 94 screen 14 while permitting screen 14 to move up and down. In the arrangement shown, first receiver 398 and second receiver 400 are c-shaped channels configured to receive and hold a cylindrical interlock 100 similar to c-shaped channel 166 of screen receiver 146. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that in one or more arrangements, receivers 398 and 400 may be form and/or shaped to receive any type or shape of interlock including, but not limited to a keder interlock, zipper interlock, a rope, a beaded chain, or any similar interlock known in the art associated with the disclosed retractable screens.
In one or more arrangements, fixed track assembly 380 includes a recessed channel 402 and cover 406 to facilitate attachment of fixed track assembly 380 to structure 24 by fasteners 408 and covering of fasteners 408. In this example arrangement, cover 406 is configured to be received and held within recessed channel 402 so as to conceal fasteners 408 used to attach fixed track assembly 380 to structure 24. In this example arrangement cover 406 has connection features 412 configured to engage one more connection features 414 of recessed channel 402. In the arrangement shown, as one example, recessed channel 402 have protrusion type connection feature 414 configured to engage a recess type connection feature 412 of cover 406. However, the arrangements are not so limited. Rather, it is contemplated that cover 406 may connect with recessed channel 402 using various means and/or methods including but not limited to, for example, frictional fittings, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, welding, stitching, sewing, fasteners (e.g., staples, screws, nails, bolts, rivets, etc.), and/or any other connection means or method).
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. For instance, although aspects and features may be illustrated in or described with reference to certain figures or arrangements, it will be appreciated that features from one figure or embodiment may be combined with features of another figure or arrangement even though the combination is not explicitly shown or explicitly described as a combination. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/337,363, filed May 2, 2022 and titled “RETRACTABLE SCREEN SYSTEMS”, which is hereby fully incorporated by reference herein. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/182,428 published as U.S. Pub. No. 2021/02622884 Aug. 26, 2021 and titled “RETRACTABLE SCREEN SYSTEMS”, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/862,861 published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022/0349252 Nov. 3, 2022 and titled “SELF-TENSIONING MAGNETIC TRACKS AND TRACK ASSEMBLIES”, each of which is hereby fully incorporated by reference herein.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63337363 | May 2022 | US |
