Patent Application
20200325724
This disclosure relates to implementations of a roller blind assembly for angled architectural openings.
Roller blinds are used to cover architectural openings, such as windows of a house, office building, or other structure. The roller blinds are used to provide shading, privacy, and/or other preferences by covering the architectural openings.
Roller blinds are designed to fit architectural openings by fitting around the perimeter or within the frame of the architectural openings. Roller blinds are designed to cover architectural openings by extending to fully cover the architectural openings. The roller blinds are also designed to retract to uncover the architectural openings.
Roller blinds include a roller and a sheet element. One end of the sheet element is attached to the roller. The sheet element rolls up around the roller when the roller blind is retracted. The sheet element unwinds and extends from the roller when the roller blind is extended. The sheet element is composed of a thin flexible material, such as fabric or plastic.
The roller of existing roller blinds is mounted at the top side of an architectural opening. Gravity assists to extend the sheet element downward as the sheet element is unwound from the roller. Gravity also assists to keep the unwound sheet element extended downward over the architectural opening. Thus, the weight of the sheet element, and in some designs an added weighting near the bottom end of the sheet element, is all that keeps the thin flexible sheet element extended over the architectural opening.
Existing roller blinds are rectangular shaped. Therefore, existing roller blinds are only able to fully fit and cover, as described above, rectangular shaped architectural openings. However, some architectural openings have a modified rectangular shape in which one side, such as the top or bottom side, of the architectural openings is angled so that this angled side is not parallel or perpendicular to the other sides. These architectural openings can be referred to as angled architectural openings.
Existing roller blinds are not able to fully fit and cover angled architectural openings, particularly when the angled side is at the top or bottom of the angled architectural openings. Furthermore, existing roller blinds can only properly extend and retract to fit and cover architectural openings when the roller is mounted at the top side of the architectural openings so that the sheet material extends vertically downward from the roller as described above. Therefore, existing roller blinds can not properly extend and retract to fit and cover architectural openings if the roller is mounted at the left or right side of the architectural openings so that the sheet material has to extend horizontally, such as to fit and cover angled architectural openings that have an angled top or bottom side.
Implementations of a roller blind assembly for angled architectural openings are provided. In some implementations, the roller blind assembly comprises a frame, a roller tube assembly, a roller blind sheet, a chain assembly, a track assembly, an extension assembly, a retraction assembly, and a motor assembly.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly is configured to fully fit the perimeter of and also fully cover the opening of angled architectural openings.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly is configured to extend, retract, and maintain the extension of a non-vertical roller blind such as a horizontally extending roller blind.
In some implementations, a method of using the roller blind assembly comprises installing the roller blind assembly to fully fit the perimeter of an angled architectural opening. In some implementations, the method comprises operating the roller blind assembly to fully cover the opening of the angled architectural opening.
As shown in
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 can fully fit the perimeter of a window having a modified rectangular shape. In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 can also fully cover the opening of the window having the modified rectangular shape.
In some implementations, the top side of the window having the modified rectangular shape extends diagonally downward from a first (e.g., left) side to a second (e.g., right) side of the window. In some implementations, the top side of the window is non-perpendicular to the first side and the second side of the window. In some implementations, the top side of the window is non-parallel to the bottom side of the window.
In some implementations, the foregoing features of the top side of the window can be switched to the bottom side of the window so that the bottom side of the window is “angled” instead of the top side.
In some implementations, the above described window is an example of an angled architectural opening as referred to herein this description. In some implementations, an angled architectural opening as referred to herein is an architectural opening, such as a window (or window opening) of a house, office building, or other structure, that has a modified rectangular shape in which one side, such as the top or bottom side, is angled so that this angled side is not parallel or perpendicular to the other sides. In this regard,
As shown in
In some implementations, the first side 2a extends vertically between the first side bottom end 2a1 and the first side top end 2a2. In some implementations, the second side 2c extends vertically between the second side bottom end 2c1 and the second side top end 2c2.
In some implementations, the bottom side 2b extends horizontally between and is connected respectively to the first side bottom end 2a1 and the second side bottom end 2c1.
In some implementations, the frame 110 may further comprise a top side (not shown) that extends between the first side top end 2a2 and the second side top end 2c2.
In some implementations, the first side 2a is longer than the second side 2c.
In some implementations, the combination of the first side 2a, the bottom side 2b, and the second side 2c corresponds to the modified rectangular shape of the window so that the frame 110 can fully fit within or adjacent to the perimeter of the window.
For example, in some implementations, the shape of the frame 110 defined by the sides 2a, 2b, 2c corresponds to the modified rectangular shape of the window by the first side 2a of the frame 110 extending parallel to the first side of the window, the second side 2c of the frame 110 extending parallel to the second side of the window, and the bottom side 2b of the frame 110 extending parallel to the bottom side of the window.
In some implementations, the frame 110 is sized to fit within or adjacent to an existing frame of any other suitable angled architectural opening.
As shown in
In some implementations, other components of the roller blind assembly 100 may also be attached within the interior of the frame 110.
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the brackets 4 may be connected to the frame sides 2a, 2b, 2c with screws or similar fasteners. In some implementations, the screws may be long enough to help maintain a solid structural shape of the frame sides 2a, 2b, 2c. In some implementations, the screws may not extend all of the way through the frame sides 2a, 2b, 2c and therefore may not be exposed in a top view of the frame 110.
In some implementations, alternate references may be used herein with respect to the frame sides 2a, 2b, 2c, or similar elements, such as retracted side 2a and extended side 2c. However, it should be understood that such references refer to the same respective elements or other relative aspects based on the same reference number used. For example, in some implementations described herein, the first side 2a and the retracted side 2a refer to the same element.
Furthermore, retracted side or similar retracted references refer to the side on which the roller blind sheet 130, described below, approaches or positions when fully retracted, e.g. the frame first side 2a with respect to the disclosure herein. Similarly, extended side or similar extended references refer to the side on which the roller blind sheet 130 approaches or positions when fully extended, e.g. the frame second side 2c with respect to the disclosure herein.
As shown in
In some implementations, the combination of the sides 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d of the outer frame 115 form a modified rectangular shape. In some implementations, the modified rectangular shape is substantially congruent in length along each side to the length along each corresponding side 2a, 2b, 2c of the frame 110 of the roller blind assembly 100.
For example, in some implementations, the sides 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are connected together respectively to form a modified rectangular shape so that the outer first side 3a extends parallel and congruent in length with the first side 2a of the frame 110, the outer second side 3c extends parallel and congruent in length with the second side 2c of the frame 110, and the outer bottom side 3b extends parallel and congruent in length with the bottom side 2b of the frame 110.
In some implementations, the outer frame 115 is attached to the frame 110 along each corresponding side 2a, 2b, 2c of the frame 110 respectively.
For example, in some implementations, the outer frame 115 is attached to the frame 110 so that the outer first side 3a is adjacent to the first side 2a of the frame 110, the outer second side 3c is adjacent to the second side 2c of the frame 110, and the outer bottom side 3b is adjacent to the bottom side 2b of the frame 110.
In some implementations, the outer frame 115 at least partially conceals the other components of the roller blind assembly 100 that are attached or adjacent to the frame 110. As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the materials, decorative design, staining or painting colors, and/or sheen of the outer frame sides 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d can be modified to match or complement the existing framework or molding of the angled architectural opening.
In some implementations, the sizing of the outer frame sides 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d is based on the amount of coverage required to minimize the visibility of the assembly 100 components from an interior viewpoint. In some implementations, the sizing of the outer frame sides 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d is based on the desired amount of molding for a transition to the existing framework or molding on the angled architectural opening.
In some implementations, the top outer frame side 3d also provides a path for heat to escape from the exterior side 100b of the roller blind assembly 100 out of the top side 100c of the assembly 100. As shown in
In some implementations, the cutout 3e runs most or all of the length of a top portion of the top outer frame side 3d. In some implementations, the cutout 3e runs from the very top of the top outer frame side 3d down to a point below the top framework or molding of the angled architectural opening (not shown).
In some implementations, heat that builds on the exterior side 100b of the roller blind sheet 130 rises toward the top side 100c of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, when the heat rises to the existing molding or framework of the angled architectural opening, the heat can escape through the cutout 3e and out of the top side 100c of the assembly 100.
In some implementations, the heat can escape since the cutout 3e is cut to a point below the point of contact between the top outer frame side 3d and the existing molding or framework of the angled architectural opening. In some implementations, this flow path of heat through the cutout 3e minimizes the potential for damage caused by heat or the expansion of gasses to any material used to separate the interior from the exterior of the angled architectural opening, such as glass.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the frame 110 may further comprise a top side (not shown). In some implementations, such added top side includes a sufficient ventilation path for the escape of heat out of the top of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, this ventilation flow path is aligned with the cutout 3e in the optional outer frame 115 of the assembly 100. In some implementations, the ventilation flow path allows heat and heated gasses to escape from the exterior side 100b of the roller blind sheet 130 as described in the foregoing.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, the cutout 3e is repositioned on the bottom outer frame side 3b instead of the top outer frame side 3d.
In some implementations, the repositioned cutout 3e is started from above the point where the bottom outer frame side 3b meets the bottom frame side 2b. In some implementations, this change in the design of the cutout 3e allows for the escape of heat and gases from the exterior side of the roller blind sheet 130 for such rotated assembly 100.
As shown in
In some implementations, the tube 5 extends vertically adjacent to the first side 2a of the frame 110. In some implementations, the tube 5 is rotatably attached to the frame 110. In some implementations, the tube 5 is rotatable about the longitudinal center of the tube 5.
As shown in
In some implementations, the roller tube 5 can be a solid bar that is modified at the bottom side to accept the roller tube bottom attachment 22, described below.
In some implementations, the roller tube 5 is held in place in a vertical alignment. In some implementations, the roller tube 5 is held along the frame retracted side 2a of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the bottom side of the roller tube 5 is connected to a roller tube bottom attachment 22.
As shown in
In some implementations, instead of the hole 25, an additional bracket (not shown) can be used to house the bottom attachment 22 to hold the attachment 22 in place. In some implementations, this bracket can be connected to the frame bottom side 2b in many ways, such as by screw(s) or adhesive.
In some implementations, the hole 25 is large enough to allow the roller tube bottom attachment 22 to rotate freely about an axis that runs from the bottom to the top of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the hole 25 is tight enough to minimize movement of the bottom attachment 22 away from the hole 25.
As shown in
In some implementations, the hole 25 is positioned to prevent the roller tube 5, roller blind sheet 130, bottom attachment 22, or top bracket 24, described below, from interfering with the original material inside the angled architectural opening, such as glass. In some implementations, the hole 25 is positioned to prevent the foregoing components from interfering with the outer frame sides 3a, 3b if included in the assembly 100.
As shown in
In some implementations, the hole 25 is deep enough to securely hold the roller tube bottom attachment 22 in place. In some implementations, the hole 25 is not so deep that the bottom portion 22a of the bottom attachment 22 is floating inside the hole 25.
In some implementations, the attachment bottom portion 22a rests on the bottom of the hole 25. In some implementations, the bottom portion 22a provides sufficient vertical force along the roller tube 5 to provide bottom support of the roller tube 5.
As shown in
In some implementations, the connection between the roller tube 5 and the bottom attachment 22 at the top section 22b can be made in many ways, such as by a friction fit, adhesive, screw(s), nail(s), compression fit, or set screw(s).
In some implementations, the roller tube bottom attachment 22 connects to the bottom side of the roller tube 5 so that the bottom attachment 22 and the roller tube 5 both rotate together. In some implementations, rotation by the roller tube 5 causes the bottom attachment 22 to rotate in unison at the same angular velocity. Similarly, in some implementations, rotation by the bottom attachment 22 causes the roller tube 5 to rotate in unison at the same angular velocity.
As shown in
In some implementations, the flange 22c is located on the bottom attachment 22. In some implementations, the flange 22c is located below the point where the top section 22b of the bottom attachment 22 extends into the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the flange 22c is sized to at least extend to the diameter of the roller blind sheet 130 when it is retracted and rolled onto the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the flange 22c provides a shelf support to the bottom of the roller blind sheet 130 when it is rolled onto the roller tube 5. In some implementations, the shelf support provided by the flange 22c prevents the roller blind sheet 130 from falling from the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the shelf support provided by the flange 22c prevents the roller blind sheet 130 from interfering with other parts of the roller blind assembly 100.
As shown in
In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 couples the tether 16 to the bottom attachment 22.
In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 has a cylindrical shape with a hollow center. In some implementations, the hollow center is large enough to fit over the main center section of the bottom attachment 22 between the flange 22c and the bottom portion 22a.
In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 connects to the bottom attachment 22 by a screw 23b or other way of connection while positioned over the bottom attachment 22.
In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 and the bottom attachment 22 are connected together to rotate in unison at the same angular velocity. In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 and the bottom attachment 22 therefore rotate in unison with the roller tube 5 connected to the bottom attachment 22. Furthermore, in some implementations, the rotation of any one of the roller tube 5, the bottom attachment 22, or the tether attachment 23 therefore causes the rotation of the other foregoing connected components.
In some implementations, the tether 16 connects to the tether attachment 23 by the screw 23b or other way of connection. In some implementations, the tether 16 anchors to the head of the screw 23b to connect to the tether attachment 23.
In some implementations, the tether 16 can be connected to the tether attachment 23 by the screw 23b in many ways, such as by tying or pinning the tether 16.
As shown in
In some implementations, the lower flange 23a is small enough to allow the tether attachment 23 and the bottom attachment 22 to position between the retracted side 2a and the retracted side bracket 12, described below, without causing interference with other parts of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the lower flange 23a provides a shelf support to the tether 16 when it is rolled onto the tether attachment 23.
In some implementations, the shelf support provided by the lower flange 23a prevents the tether 16 from falling from the tether attachment 23. In some implementations, the shelf support provided by the lower flange 23a prevents the tether 16 from interfering with other parts of the roller blind assembly 100, such as becoming entangled in the chain 9 or sprocket 28, described below.
In some implementations, the tether attachment 23 and the bottom attachment 22 may be integrated as a single part.
As shown in
In some implementations, the top bracket 24 can be connected to the frame retracted side 2a in various ways, such as by screw(s), nail(s), or adhesive.
In some implementations, the top bracket 24 is positioned high enough on the roller tube 5 to prevent any interference with the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the top bracket 24 comprises a cylindrical opening that fits around the roller tube 5. In some implementations, the roller tube 5 can rotate freely inside this cylindrical opening with very little friction or resistance from the roller tube top bracket 24.
In some implementations, the top bracket 24 prevents the top of the roller tube 5 from moving away from the top bracket 24.
As shown in
In some implementations, the first or stationary section 24a comprises a cutout portion. In some implementations, the cutout is wide enough to allow the top portion of the roller tube 5 to slide out of the top bracket 24. In some implementations, the cutout allows the roller tube 5 to slide out of the top bracket 24 when the second or removable section 24b is separated from the stationary section 24a.
As shown in
In some implementations, the extensions 24c fit snuggly enough in the holes 24d to prevent separation of the removable section 24b from the stationary section 24a, such as during operation of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the removable section 24b can be attached to the stationary section 24a to assemble the bracket 24 in various ways, such as by screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, or hinges.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, an additional bracket (not shown) is mounted at the top side of the roller tube 5. In some implementations, this additional bracket is connected to the frame retracted side 2a similar to how the top bracket 24 is connected to the frame retracted side 2a.
In some implementations, such additional bracket comprises a shelf portion (not shown). In some implementations, this shelf portion is positioned at the top side of the roller tube 5. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, this shelf portion prevents the roller tube 5 from being pulled downward, e.g. by gravity, from the assembly 100.
In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, the top bracket 24 is rotated so that the removable section 24b positions on top of the stationary section 24a.
As shown in
In some implementations, the guide 26 is attached to the first side 2a of the frame 110. In some implementations, the guide 26 is attached adjacent to the tube 5 of the roller tube assembly 120. In some implementations, the guide 26 is attached at a mid-length of the tube 5.
In some implementations, the guide 26 comprises a curved portion 26c that partially extends around and adjacent to the tube 5.
In some implementations, the guide 26 guides and maintains the roller blind sheet 130 firmly around the tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is retracted and rolled up around the tube 5.
As shown in
In some implementations, the guide 26 is attached to the frame retracted side 2a.
In some implementations, the guide 26 can be attached to the frame retracted side 2a in various ways, such as by screws, nails, or adhesive.
As shown in
In some implementations, the curved flange 26c of the guide 26 is connected to another set of flanges 26a, 26b. In some implementations, these flanges 26a, 26b allow the curved flange 26c of the guide 26 to be positioned to compliment the outer edge of the bottom attachment flange 22c.
In some implementations, the guide 26 is attached to the frame retracted side 2a at the retracted side flange 26a of the guide 26. In some implementations, the guide 26 can be attached to the frame retracted side 2a in various ways, such as by screws, nails, or adhesive.
In some implementations, the guide 26 forces the roller blind sheet 130 back toward the center axis of the roller tube 5 in the event that the roller blind sheet 130 becomes loose around the roller tube 5. In some implementations, this helps minimize the potential that the roller blind sheet 130 will fall below or to the bottom side of the bottom attachment flange 22c and interfere with other parts of the roller blind assembly 100.
As shown in
In some implementations, the edges 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d define a shape of the roller blind sheet 130 that corresponds to the modified rectangular shape of the window described above. In some implementations, the shape of the roller blind sheet 130 corresponds to the shape of the window so that the roller blind sheet 130 can fully cover the opening of the window.
In some implementations, the first edge 130a is longer than the second edge 130c.
In some implementations, the first edge 130a is attached to the tube 5 of the roller tube assembly 120 so that the roller blind sheet 130 can be rolled up around the tube 5. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 can be rolled up around the tube 5 to uncover the opening of the window.
In some implementations, the first edge 130a is attached to the tube 5 of the roller tube assembly 120 so that the roller blind sheet 130 can be unrolled and extended from the tube 5. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 can be unrolled and extended from the tube 5 to fully cover the opening of the window.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130, when fully extended from the roller tube 5, comprises the shape of the angled architectural opening in which the roller blind assembly 100 is installed. In some implementations, the fully extended roller blind sheet 130 comprises any other desired shape of coverage with respect to the angled architectural opening.
In some implementations, the top edge 130d of the roller blind sheet 130 is cut parallel to, but slightly below, the top edge of the angled architectural opening. In some implementations, this shaping of the roller blind sheet 130 allows a path for heat and heated gasses to escape from the exterior side 100b of the roller blind sheet 130 and out the top side 100c of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 comprises additional material on the roller tube side, or retracted side, 130a of the roller blind sheet 130 to allow for the attachment of the roller blind sheet 130 to the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 can be attached to the roller tube 5 at this additional material in various ways, such as by tape, glue, staples, screws, or nails.
In some implementations, this additional material of the roller blind sheet 130 that attaches to the roller tube 5 wraps at least partially around the roller tube 5 when the roller blind sheet 130 is fully extended from the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the top edge 130d of the roller blind sheet 130 is stiff to horizontally support the roller blind sheet 130 when extended from the tube 5.
In some implementations, the top edge 130d of the roller blind sheet 130 is flexible to allow the roller blind sheet 130 to roll up around the tube 5 when retracted.
As shown in
In some implementations, the narrow elongated sleeve 1a is adjacent to the top edge 130d of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, roller blind sheet 130 comprises additional material on the angled side, e.g. the top side 130d, of the roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, this additional material is folded over and attached to the roller blind sheet 130 to form the sleeve 1a.
In some implementations, the folded over additional material can be attached to the roller blind sheet 130 to form the sleeve 1a in various ways, such as by sewing, glue, snaps, buttons, staples, or nuts and bolts.
In some implementations, the sleeve 1a extends at least partially along the angled side 130d of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the sleeve 1a extends along all of the angled side 130d of the roller blind sheet 130, including along the additional material of the roller blind sheet 130 that attaches to the roller tube 5 as described above. Therefore, in some implementations, the sleeve 1a wraps at least partially around the roller tube 5 when the roller blind sheet 130 is fully extended.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 is held within the sleeve 1a.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 provides a stiff horizontal support to the roller blind sheet 130 when extended from the tube 5 of the roller tube assembly 120.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 provides a flexibility that allows the roller blind sheet 130 to roll up around the tube 5 when the roller blind sheet 130 is retracted.
In some implementations, the sleeve 1a houses the piece of material 132.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 supports the roller blind sheet 130 along the top side and/or the angled side of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a provides stability to the top edge and/or the angled edge of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a prevents sagging of the roller blind sheet 130 when extended from the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a is sufficiently flexible and resilient to roll up and wrap around the roller tube 5 and to straighten out and extend from the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a rolls up and wraps around the roller tube 5 along with the material of the roller blind sheet 130, including the additional material that is attached to the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a wraps around the roller tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is retracted and wrapped around the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a straightens out and extends with the roller blind sheet 130 as the roller blind sheet 130 is unwrapped and extended from the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the piece of material 132 may be a thin piece of metal material.
Considering the foregoing description, in some implementations, the piece of material 132 in the sleeve 1a behaves similar to a length of retractable tape measure material that is stored coiled inside a tape measure housing and that extends straight when withdrawn from the housing.
As shown in
In some implementations, a narrow elongated finger (also referred to herein as an extension rod) 7, which extends upward from the extension assembly 160 as described below, is inserted in the sleeve 1b to connect the extension assembly 160 to the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 comprises additional material on the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, this additional material is folded over and attached to the roller blind sheet 130 to form the second sleeve 1b.
In some implementations, the folded over additional material can be attached to the roller blind sheet 130 to form the sleeve 1b in various ways, such as by sewing, glue, snaps, buttons, staples, or nuts and bolts.
In some implementations, the sleeve 1b extends vertically along the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the sleeve 1b extends at least partially along the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130.
As shown in
In some implementations, the smaller sleeves 1d, 1e can be formed in various ways, such as by sewing, glue, snaps, buttons, staples, or nuts and bolts.
In some implementations, the extension rod 7 positioned inside the sleeve 1b is further positioned inside the retracted side sleeve 1e that is formed in the bottom portion of the sleeve 1b.
In some implementations, the positioning of the rod 7 in the retracted side sleeve 1e causes a tighter fit between the sleeve 1e and the bottom portion of the extension rod 7 close to the extension assembly 160.
In some implementations, the positioning of the rod 7 in the retracted side sleeve 1e causes a looser fit between the sleeve 1b and the top portion of the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the tighter fit between the retracted side sleeve 1e and the bottom of the extension rod 7 minimizes the torque created on the extension assembly 160 about an axis through the extension assembly 160 perpendicular to the extension track 8, described below.
In some implementations, the tighter fit between the sleeve 1e and the extension rod 7 minimizes the torque as the extension assembly 160 is pushed by the engaging extension 9a to extend the roller blind. In some implementations, the tighter fit between the sleeve 1e and the extension rod 7 minimizes the torque when the extension assembly 160 is pulled back toward the roller tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is retracted onto the roller tube 5.
In some implementations, the top portion of the sleeve 1b on the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130 fits more loosely around the top of the extension rod 7 when compared to the smaller sleeve 1e at the bottom of the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, this allows the top portion of the extension rod 7 to provide structural support to the roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, this allows the top portion of the extension rod 7 to prevent the roller blind sheet 130 from falling from the extension rod 7. In some implementations, structural support is therefore created for the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130 by the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the tube 5 of the roller tube assembly 120 and the attached roller blind sheet 130 may be integrated or combined as a single component, such as or similar to a roller blind.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 may be any flexible material that can be used to cover an angled architectural opening and can wrap around a roller tube 5 when retracted.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 may be any material that can be used to completely, substantially, partially, or minimally block out light, a view, and/or radiant or heat energy from traversing through an angled architectural opening.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 may be a material that is referred to as blinds, shades, coverings, solar shades, or solar blinds.
Although parts of the sleeves 1a, 1b, 1d, 1e such as the attachment 1c, flaps, seams, etc. are shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the chain 9 comprises a roller type chain. In some implementations, the chain 9 comprises any other suitable type of chain.
In some implementations, the chain 9 extends in a horizontal loop between the first side 2a and the second side 2c of the frame 110 adjacent to the bottom side 2b of the frame 110. In some implementations, the horizontal loop in which the chain 9 extends is elliptical shaped.
In some implementations, the horizontal loop in which the chain 9 extends has any other suitable shape.
In some implementations, the chain 9 is moveable along the horizontal loop. In some implementations, the chain 9 travels around the track assembly 150.
In some implementations, the chain 9 comprises a first engaging extension 9a and a second engaging extension 9b.
As shown in
In some implementations, the first engaging extension 9a and the second engaging extension 9b may each comprise any other suitable configuration, such as a finger of any suitable shape.
In some implementations, the first engaging extension 9a and the second engaging extension 9b are each attached to the chain 9. In some implementations, the first engaging extension 9a and the second engaging extension 9b each extend from the chain 9.
In some implementations, the first engaging extension 9a and the second engaging extension 9b are attached to the chain 9 so that the extensions 9a, 9b can position and extend from the chain 9 on a same side or on different sides of the horizontal loop of travel of the chain 9 during operation of the assembly 100.
In some implementations, the chain 9 may comprise just a single engaging extension instead of the two extensions 9a, 9b. In some implementations, such single engaging extension is the same or similar to either of the extensions 9a, 9b. In some implementations, such single engaging extension can provide essentially the same or substantially similar function as the two extensions 9a, 9b for the operation of the roller blind assembly 100 as described below.
As shown in
In some implementations, the first sprocket 28 may be a plate sprocket.
In some implementations, the first sprocket 28 is positioned near the roller tube 5. As shown in
In some implementations, the first sprocket 28 rotates freely around the bottom attachment 22.
In some implementations, the movement of the chain 9 controls the rotation of the first sprocket 28. In some implementations, the rotation of the first sprocket 28 does not cause the bottom attachment 22 or the roller tube 5 to rotate.
Similarly, in some implementations, the rotation of the roller tube 5 or the bottom attachment 22 does not cause the first sprocket 28 to rotate. In some implementations, the first sprocket 28 is positioned on top of a bushing 29. In some implementations, the bushing 29 is positioned on the frame bottom side 2b.
In some implementations, the bushing 29 prevents the first sprocket 28 from interfering with the frame bottom side 2b. Similarly, in some implementations, the bushing 29 prevents the chain 9 from interfering with the frame bottom side 2b as the chain 9 rotates around the first sprocket 28.
In some implementations, the bushing 29 is positioned around the center cylinder of the roller tube bottom attachment 22. In some implementations, the position of the bushing 29 prevents the movement of the bushing 29 away from the bottom attachment 22.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, another bushing that is like the bushing 29 is positioned along the rotational axis of the roller tube bottom attachment 22 adjacent to the top side of the sprocket 28.
In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, this additional bushing prevents gravity from pulling the sprocket 28 against the lower flange 23a of the roller tube bottom attachment 22. In some implementations, this additional bushing also prevents interference between the lower flange 23a and the chain 9 or engaging extensions 9a, 9b.
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the cylindrical section 31a raises the sprocket 30 off of the bracket 31. In some implementations, the cylindrical section 31a prevents interference between the sprocket 30 and the frame bottom side 2b.
In some implementations, the bracket 31 comprises a second raised cylindrical section 31b. In some implementations, the second cylindrical section 31b is positioned on top of the first cylindrical section 31a.
In some implementations, the second cylindrical section 31b is large enough to prevent excess movement of the sprocket 30 away from the bracket 31.
In some implementations, the second cylindrical section 31b is small enough to allow the sprocket 30 to rotate freely on the bracket 31 with minimal friction between the bracket 31 and the sprocket 30.
In some implementations, the bracket 31 prevents the sprocket 30 from interfering with the frame bottom side 2b. Similarly, in some implementations, the sprocket 30 prevents the chain 9 from interfering with the frame bottom side 2b as the chain 9 rotates around the sprocket 30.
In some implementations, the bracket 31 is connected to the frame bottom side 2b.
In some implementations, the bracket 31 can be attached to the frame bottom side 2b in various ways, such as by screws, nails, or adhesives.
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension track 8 and the retraction track 14 each extend between the first side 2a and the second side 2c of the frame 110. In some implementations, the extension track 8 and the retraction track 14 each extend adjacent to the bottom side 2b of the frame 110.
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension track 8 is positioned near the bottom of the roller blind assembly 100 and extends between the retracted side 2a and the extended side 2c of the assembly 100.
In some implementations, the extension track 8 can be made from various different designs and materials. In some implementations, the extension track 8 comprises rods 8a, 8b.
In some implementations, the extension track rods 8a, 8b are held above the frame bottom side 2b of the roller blind assembly 100. As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the extended side extension track bracket 11 comprises two attachment extensions 11b. In some implementations extensions 11b comprise holes that allow the extended side bracket 11 to be attached to the frame extended side 2c. In some implementations, attaching the extended side bracket 11 to the frame extended side 2c allows for maximum travel of the extension cart 6 toward the extended side 2c.
In some implementations, the extended side bracket 11 can be attached to the assembly frame extended side 2c in various ways such as by screws or adhesive.
As shown in
In some implementations, for ease of positioning or removal of the extension track rods 8a, 8b, a top portion of the hollow cylinder openings 12a is omitted. In some implementations, this variation of the hollow cylinder openings 12a allows the track rods 8a, 8b to be positioned in or removed from the hollow cylinder openings 12a while positioned in the other hollow cylinder openings 11a with the brackets 11, 12 attached to the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the retracted side bracket 12 also comprises an attachment extension flange 12b. In some implementations, the attachment flange 12b comprises holes that allow the retracted side bracket 12 to be attached to the frame bottom side 2b.
In some implementations, the retracted side bracket 12 can be attached to the frame bottom side 2b in various ways such as by screws or adhesive.
In some implementations, the retracted side track assembly bracket 12 may comprise two additional hollow cylinder openings 12c. In some implementations, these additional hollow cylinder openings 12c may have a half cylinder shape variation similar to the above described variation of the hollow cylinder openings 12a.
As shown in
In some implementations, the retraction track 14 can be made from various different designs and materials. In some implementations, the retraction track 14 comprises two rods 14a, 14b.
In some implementations, the retraction track 14 is positioned near the bottom of the roller blind assembly 100 and extends along the extend/retract axis.
In some implementations, the retraction track rods 14a, 14b are held above the frame bottom side 2b of the roller blind assembly 100. As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the bracket 15 can be attached to the frame bottom side 2b in various ways such as by screws, nails, or adhesive.
In some implementations, the retracted side 2a of the retraction track rods 14a, 14b are held in place by the retracted side bracket 12, introduced above with respect to the extension track 8.
As shown in
In some implementations, the flange 12d positions below the tether 16. In some implementations, the flange 12d helps to prevent the tether 16 from interfering with the chain 9, engaging extensions 9a, 9b, and sprocket 28 in the event that the tether 16 becomes slack during operation of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the flange 12d, along with the body of the bracket 12, helps guide the tether 16 and prevent excess travel of the tether 16 away from the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the flange 12d also helps to maintain the tether 16 above the tether attachment flange 23a in the event that the tether 16 becomes slack during operation of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the retracted side bracket 12 may comprise separate brackets (not shown) for the extension track rods 8a, 8b and for the retraction track rods 14a, 14b.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, the hollow cylinder openings 12a, 12c of the bracket 12 with top portions omitted are rotated, e.g., flipped, to prevent gravity from pulling the track rods 8a, 8b, 14a, 14b out of the openings 12a, 12c respectively.
In some implementations, a hardware screw eye (not shown) is positioned toward the retracted side 2a of the roller blind assembly 100 adjacent to the bracket 12. In some implementations, the screw eye is also positioned near the tether attachment flange 23a. In some implementations, the tether 16 extends through the screw eye and then over the bracket flange 12d.
In some implementations, the screw eye guides the tether 16. In some implementations, the screw eye prevents the tether 16 from interfering with other components of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the screw eye also prevents excess movement of the tether 16 away from the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the tether 16 can be guided in other ways that are similar to the screw eye, such as described herein.
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension assembly 160 is engageably coupleable to the chain 9 by the body 6 of the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, a movement of the first engaging extension 9a toward the extension assembly 160 by a movement of the chain 9 causes the first engaging extension 9a to engage the body 6 of the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the movement of the first engaging extension 9a causes the chain 9 to couple to the extension assembly 160 to move the extension assembly 160 along the extension track 8.
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension assembly 160 comprises an extension cart 6 and an extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the extension cart 6 is moveably connected to the extension track 8 of the track assembly 150.
In some implementations, the extension rod 7 is attached to and extends from the extension cart 6.
In some implementations, the extension rod 7 can be attached or otherwise connected to the extension cart 6 in various ways, such as by screw(s), set screw(s), an adhesive, or a friction fit.
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension rod 7 on the extension cart 6 provides support to the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the extension rod 7 on the extension cart 6 prevents the extended side 130c of the roller blind sheet 130 from falling from the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the bottom of the sleeve 1b sits on top of the extension cart 6, which prevents the roller blind sheet 130 from falling from the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the positioning of the sleeve 1b onto the extension rod 7 adjacent to the extension cart 6 couples or connects the roller blind sheet 130 to the extension cart 6.
In some implementations, as the extension cart 6 is pushed or otherwise moves along the track 8, the extension rod 7 on the extension cart 6 pulls and extends the roller blind sheet 130 over an angled architectural opening to which the roller blind assembly 100 is attached.
Similarly, in some implementations, as the roller tube 5 is rotated or otherwise turns to retract the roller blind sheet 130, the roller blind sheet 130 is pulled or otherwise retracted from over the angled architectural opening. In some implementations, as the roller blind sheet 130 is retracted, the roller blind sheet 130 pulls the extension rod 7 by the connection to the sleeve 1b, which thereby pulls the extension cart 6 toward the roller tube 5.
As shown in
In some implementations, the fit between the two holes 6a, 6b in the extension cart 6 and the track rods 8a, 8b is tight enough to prevent any excess movement of the extension cart 6 away from the track 8. In some implementations, the fit between the holes 6a, 6b and the rods 8a, 8b is loose enough to allow the extension cart 6 to slide smoothly along the track rods 8a, 8b.
In some implementations, the shape of the extension cart 6 is designed to hold the extension rod 7 in a vertical position. As shown in
In some implementations, movement of the extension cart 6 therefore causes corresponding movement of the extension rod 7. In some implementations, movement of the extension rod 7 therefore causes corresponding movement of the extension cart 6.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, additional ways of attachment can be used to prevent gravity from detaching the extension rod 7 from the extension cart 6 and from pulling the roller blind sleeve 1b, 1e off of the extension rod 7. In some implementations, such additional ways of attachment may include various ways, such as by glue, screw(s) or set screw(s).
As shown in
In some implementations, the cutout 6d guides the engaging extension 9a to engage the extension cart 6 when the chain 9 is moved in the direction to push the extension cart 6 toward the extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the engaging extension 9a is then housed into the extension cart 6 when the engaging extension 9a reaches the closed end of the cutout 6d.
In some implementations, once the engaging extension 9a is housed into the extension cart 6 by the cutout 6d, further movement of the chain 9 to extend the roller blind sheet 130 pushes the extension cart 6 toward the extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 is thereby pulled toward the extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100 by the coupling of the roller blind sheet 130 to the extension cart 6 through the connection of the sleeve 1b, 1e and the extension rod 7.
In some implementations, the engaging extension 9a slides out of the extension cart 6 when the chain 9 is moved in the other direction toward the retracted side 2a of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the engaging extension 9a can then travel away from the extension cart 6 without further affecting the position of the extension cart 6.
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the extension 17 is similar to, e.g. shaped like, a beam that has wider portions 17a, 17b on each end respectively.
In some implementations, the wider portions 17a, 17b assist in the interaction between the limit switch extension 17 and the limit switches 37, 39 respectively.
In some implementations, the length of the extension 17 on each end is based respectively on the location of the limit switches 37, 39 relative to the extension cart 6 when the roller blind sheet 130 is in the fully extended or fully retracted position.
In some implementations, the shelf 6e has holes that align with holes in the limit switch extension 17 for the connection of the limit switch extension 17 to the extension cart 6.
In some implementations, the extension 17 can be connected to the extension cart 6 at the shelf 6e in various ways, such as by nuts and bolts, screws, or adhesive.
In some implementations, the extension 17 and the extension cart 6 may be integrated as a single part of the extension assembly 160.
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the retraction assembly 170 is engageably coupleable to the chain 9 by the body 13 of the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, a movement of the second engaging extension 9b toward the retraction assembly 170 by a movement of the chain 9 causes the second engaging extension 9b to engage the body 13 of the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the movement of the second engaging extension 9b causes the chain 9 to couple to the retraction assembly 170 to move the retraction assembly 170 along the retraction track 14.
As shown in
In some implementations, the tether 16 rolls up around the tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is unrolled and extended from the tube 5. In some implementations, as the tether 16 rolls up around the tube 5, the tether 16 moves the retraction assembly 170 towards the tube 5 and the first side 2a of the frame 110.
In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 retracts and rolls up around the tube 5 as the tether 16 is unrolled and extended from the tube 5 by a movement of the retraction assembly 170 along the retraction track 14 by the chain 9.
As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the fit between the two holes 13a, 13b in the retraction cart 13 and the retraction track rods 14a, 14b is tight enough to prevent any excess movement of the retraction cart 13 from the retraction track 14. In some implementations, the fit between the holes 13a, 13b and the rods 14a, 14b is loose enough to allow the retraction cart 13 to slide smoothly along the retraction track 14.
As shown in
In some implementations, the tether 16 can be connected to the retraction cart 13 through the hole 13c in various ways, such as by a knot, a clip end, or a washer that is wider than the hole 13c.
As shown in
In some implementations, the cutout 13d guides the engaging extension 9b to engage the retraction cart 13 when the chain 9 is moved in the direction to push the retraction cart 13 toward the extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the engaging extension 9b is then housed into the retraction cart 13 when the engaging extension 9b reaches the closed end of the cutout 13d.
In some implementations, once the engaging extension 9b is housed into the retraction cart 13 by the cutout 13d, further movement of the chain 9 to retract the roller blind sheet 130 pushes the retraction cart 13 toward the extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the tether 16 is thereby pulled by the retraction cart 13 and unwound from the tether attachment 23.
In some implementations, the unwinding of the tether from the tether attachment 23 causes the tether attachment 23, the roller tube bottom attachment 22, and the roller tube 5 to rotate in unison. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 is thereby wound onto the roller tube 5 to retract the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the chain attachment 9b slides out of the retraction cart 13 when the chain 9 is moved in the other direction toward the retracted side 2a of the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, the chain attachment 9b can then travel away from the retraction cart 13 without further affecting the position of the retraction cart 13.
In some implementations, the tether 16 comprises a string. In some implementations, the tether 16 comprises a cord. In some implementations, the tether 16 comprises a wire. In some implementations, the tether 16 comprises a cable.
In some implementations, the tether 16 comprises any other suitable component.
In some implementations, the tether 16 is strong enough, e.g. has sufficient tensile strength, to pull the retraction assembly 170 toward the roller tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is extended. In some implementations, the tether 16 is also strong enough to cause the roller tube 5 to rotate and retract the roller blind sheet 130 onto the roller tube 5 as the retraction assembly 170 is pushed away from the roller tube 5.
As shown in
In some implementations, the tether 16 can be composed of various materials with the foregoing properties, such as string, cord, wire, or flexible cabling.
As shown in
In some implementations, the motor 32 is coupled to the chain 9, such as described further below, so that the motor 32 can cause the chain 9 to move along the horizontal loop.
In some implementations, the motor 32 is operable to move the chain 9 in a first direction that moves the first engaging extension 9a toward the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the first engaging extension 9a to engage the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the first engaging extension 9a to couple the chain 9 to the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the first engaging extension 9a to thereby move the extension assembly 160 along the extension track 8.
In some implementations, the motor 32 is operable to move the chain 9 in a second direction that moves the second engaging extension 9b toward the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the second engaging extension 9b to engage the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the second engaging extension 9b to couple the chain 9 to the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the motor 32 can move the second engaging extension 9b to thereby move the retraction assembly 170 along the retraction track 14.
As shown in
In some implementations, the sprocket 30 and the attachment 34 are connected together and rotate in unison with the motor 32, also connected to the attachment 34, at the same angular velocity.
As shown in
In some implementations, the motor shaft flange 34a can be connected to the motor coupling 33 in various ways, such as by nuts and bolts, screws, or rivets.
In some implementations, the motor coupling 33 can be connected to the shaft of the motor 32 in various ways, such as by set screws.
In some implementations, the shaft of the extension 34 is sized to provide sufficient torsional strength to transfer the torque of the motor 32 to the sprocket 30, which can thereby move the chain 9 by the sprocket 30.
In some implementations, the shaft of the extension 34 is long enough and narrow enough to position the motor 32 out of the path of the extension cart 6 and the attached roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, the shaft of the extension 34 is also long enough and narrow enough to allow a further length of travel of the extension assembly 160 and the attached roller blind sheet 130 toward the extended side 2c.
In some implementations, the bottom portion of the extension 34b fits snuggly in the center of the sprocket 30.
In some implementations, the sprocket 30 can be tightened to the bottom portion of the extension 34b in various ways, such as with set screw(s).
In some implementations, the motor 32 may be an alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) motor. In some implementations, the motor 32 can be any other suitable type of motor.
In some implementations, the motor 32 can be powered in various ways, such as by a battery, a battery pack, or an AC power source, which may include an AC/DC power adapter or inverter.
In some implementations, the motor 32 has a bi-directional or reversible rotation.
In some implementations, the motor 32 is attached to the frame extended side 2c in a position that does not interfere with other components of the roller blind assembly 100 such as the chain 9, engaging extensions 9a, 9b, carts 6, 13, or the tracks 8, 14.
As shown in
In some implementations, as the motor 32 rotates in the applicable direction, e.g. clockwise or counter-clockwise, the motor 32 extends or retracts the roller blind sheet 130 through the various connections and operations of the components of the roller blind assembly 100 described herein. That is, in some implementations, the motor 32 allows the automated operation of the assembly 100 to extend or retract the roller blind sheet 130.
However, in some implementations, the operation of the roller blind assembly 100 may be performed manually or in any other suitable manner. For example, in some implementations, a crank, handle, or other manual control (not shown) may be connected to the assembly 100 instead of the motor 32, as described herein, to allow the manual operation of the assembly 100 to extend or retract the roller blind sheet 130.
As shown in
In some implementations, the first limit switch 37 is positioned adjacent to the extension track 8 to be activated by the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the first limit switch 37 is positioned to be activated when the extension assembly 160 has been moved along the extension track 8 to fully extend the roller blind sheet 130 across the frame 110.
In some implementations, the first limit switch 37 when activated causes the motor 32 to stop moving the extension assembly 160 along the extension track 8.
In some implementations, the second limit switch 39 is positioned adjacent to the extension track 8 to also be activated by the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the second limit switch 39 is positioned to be activated when the extension assembly 160 has been moved along the extension track 8 by the roller blind sheet 130 being fully retracted from across the frame 110.
In some implementations, the second limit switch 39 when activated causes the motor 32 to stop moving the retraction assembly 170 along the retraction track 14.
In some implementations, the limit switches 37, 39 prevent the motor 32 from continuing to drive the chain 9 after the roller blind sheet 130 has been fully extended or fully retracted by the motor 32. For example, in some implementations, the limit switches 37, 39 send a signal to a motor controller 36, described below, to stop the operation of the motor 32 after the roller blind sheet 130 has been fully extended or fully retracted.
In some implementations, the limit switches 37, 39 may be any suitable limit switch that can be used for the roller blind assembly 100. In some implementations, other suitable switches can be used instead or in addition to the limit switches 37, 39, such as a switch or other component that senses the operation of the roller tube 5 with respect to the position of the roller blind sheet 130.
As shown in
In some implementations, the brackets 38, 40 are used to mount the limit switches 37, 39 respectively on the retracted side 2a and extended side 2c of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the brackets 38, 40 are designed to position the limit switches 37, 39 to work and interact with the extension assembly 160 relative to the position of the roller blind sheet 130, such as fully extended or retracted.
In some implementations, the brackets 38, 40 are also designed to position the limit switches 37, 39 to prevent interference between the limit switches 37, 39, the brackets 38, 40, and other components of the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the brackets 38, 40 can be attached to the frame of the roller blind assembly 100 in various ways, such as by screws, nails, or adhesive.
As introduced above and shown in
As shown in
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 can be mounted in any suitable position on the frame 110 of the roller blind assembly 100 that does not interfere with other parts of the assembly 100, such as the extension and retraction of the roller blind sheet 130. For example, in some implementations, the motor controller 36 is mounted to the frame extended side 2c.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 is connected to the motor 32 to control the operation of the motor 32.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 may comprises any suitable component to control the operation of the motor 32 and thereby the roller blind assembly 100.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 allows a manual operation of the motor 32. In some implementations, the motor controller 36 allows an automatic operation of the motor 32.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 allows a local operation of the motor 32. In some implementations, the motor controller 36 allows a remote operation of the motor 32.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 allows such operation of the motor 32 to extend or retract the roller blind sheet 130.
For example, in some implementations, the motor controller 36 can be operated by a remote control. As another example, in some implementations, the motor controller 36 can be operated by a wired switch configuration.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 can control the motor 32 to operate, i.e. rotate, in both directions.
In some implementations, the motor controller 36 uses the limit switches 37, 39, described above, to control the motor 32. For example, in some implementations, the motor controller 36 uses the limit switches 37, 39 to start or stop the motor 32 when the roller blind sheet 130 is in a certain position, such as fully extended or fully retracted.
As described above, in some implementations, the motor 32 may be powered by various power sources, such as a battery or battery pack. As shown in
In some implementations, the power supply shelf 42 stabily supports a power supply 41, such as a battery or battery pack, of the roller blind assembly 100 that powers the motor 32.
As shown in
In some implementations, the shelf 42 also comprises a raised edge 42a that prevents the battery 41 from sliding off the battery shelf 42.
In some implementations, the shelf 42 provides a position for the battery 41 in the assembly that does not interfere with other parts of the assembly, such as the movement of the roller blind sheet 130 and connected components.
In some implementations, the shelf 42 may also minimize the visibility of the battery pack 41 positioned in the roller blind assembly 100, e.g. for aesthetic appearance.
In some implementations, the shelf 42 can be attached to the frame of the roller blind assembly 100 in various ways, such as by screws, nails, or adhesive.
In some implementations, the shelf 42 attaches to the frame extended side 2c so that the battery 41 is oriented at the same or a similar angle as the top side of the angled architectural opening to which the roller blind assembly 100 is installed. In some implementations, this allows the battery shelf 42 and the battery 41 to be positioned behind the top outer frame side 3d, if the outer frame 115 is included in the roller blind assembly 100.
As introduced above, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be rotated bottom side 2b up for use in an angled architectural opening with an angled bottom side instead of an angled top side. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, the raised edge 42a of the battery shelf 42 is positioned on the bottom of the shelf 42. In some implementations, for such rotated assembly 100, the battery 41 is positioned on the bottom of the battery shelf 42 to keep the battery 41 in position and behind the outer frame top side 3d if included in the assembly 100.
Although the components of the roller blind assembly 100 are described herein as attached, coupled, or otherwise connected to the frame 110, in some implementations, one or more of the components may not be connected as such to the frame 110. For example, in some implementations, one or more of the components of the roller blind assembly 100 may be attached or otherwise connected to the angled architectural opening, e.g. to the frame thereof, to which the roller blind assembly 100 is installed. In some implementations, all of the components of the roller blind assembly 100 may be attached or otherwise connected to the angled architectural opening to which the roller blind assembly 100 is installed instead of being attached or otherwise connected to the frame 110, which can thereby be omitted from the assembly 100.
Furthermore, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be permanently or temporarily installed to an angled architectural opening. For example, in some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 may be removable and reinstallable to the angled architectural opening by detaching and reattaching respectively the frame 110 from/to the angled architectural opening with the other components attached or otherwise connected to the frame 110.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 can have any suitable dimensions.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 is composed of any suitable materials.
In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 can have any suitable appearance.
In some implementations, an example method of using the roller blind assembly 100 comprises installing the roller blind assembly 100 to a window having a modified rectangular shape, as described above. In some implementations, the roller blind assembly 100 is installed by attaching the frame 110 of the roller blind assembly 100 to the window (e.g., the frame of the window). For example,
In some implementations, the frame 110 is attached so that the frame 110 fully fits the perimeter of the window. In some implementations, the frame 110 is attached so that the roller blind sheet 130 fully covers the opening of the window when the roller blind sheet 130 is fully extended across the opening.
For example, in some implementations, the frame 110 is attached so that the first side 2a of the frame 110 is adjacent to the first side of the window, the second side 2c of the frame 110 is adjacent to the second side of the window, and the bottom side 2b of the frame 110 is adjacent to the bottom side of the window.
In some implementations, the method further comprises covering the opening of the window with the roller blind sheet 130 by operating the motor 32 to move the chain 9 in a first direction, as described above.
In some implementations, the first engaging extension 9a is thereby moved toward the extension assembly 160. In some implementations, the extension assembly 160 is thereby engaged by the first engaging extension 9a. In some implementations, the chain 9 is thereby coupled to the extension assembly 160.
In some implementations, the extension assembly 160 is thereby moved along the extension track 8. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 is thereby unrolled from the tube 5 and extended horizontally across the opening of the window. In some implementations, the opening of the window is thereby covered by the roller blind sheet 130.
In some implementations, the tether 16 is also thereby rolled up around the tube 5 as the roller blind sheet 130 is unrolled and extended from the tube 5.
In some implementations, the method further comprises uncovering the roller blind sheet 130 from the opening of the window by operating the motor 32 to move the chain 9 in a second direction, as described above.
In some implementations, the second engaging extension 9b is thereby moved toward the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the retraction assembly 170 is thereby engaged by the second engaging extension 9b. In some implementations, the chain 9 is thereby coupled to the retraction assembly 170.
In some implementations, the retraction assembly 170 is thereby moved along the retraction track 14. In some implementations, the tether 16 is thereby unrolled and extended from the tube 5 by the retraction assembly 170. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 is thereby retracted and rolled up around the tube 5 by the tether 16 unrolling from the tube 5. In some implementations, the roller blind sheet 130 is thereby uncovered from the opening of the window.
In some implementations, an example method of operation of the roller blind assembly 100 comprises rotating the motor 32 in the applicable direction to extend the roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, the rotation of the motor 32 causes the extended side sprocket 30 to rotate by the rotation of the motor shaft extension 34. In some implementations, the rotation of the sprocket 30 causes the attached chain 9 to travel in the associated direction in the path around the two cart tracks 8, 14.
In some implementations, as the chain 9 travels, the engaging extensions 9a, 9b travel with the chain 9. In some implementations, when the engaging extension 9a reaches the extension cart 6, the engaging extension 9a slides into the cutout 6d on the extension cart 6 until it reaches the end of the cutout 6d.
In some implementations, as the chain 9 continues to travel, the engaging extension 9a pushes the extension cart 6 in the extend direction of the assembly 100. In some implementations, as the extension cart 6 is pushed in the extend direction, the roller blind sheet 130 is pulled by the extension cart 6 at the coupling of the extension cart rod 7 inserted into the roller blind sleeve 1b.
In some implementations, as the roller blind sheet 130 is moved by the extension cart 6, it unwinds from the roller tube 5. In some implementations, the unwinding of the roller blind sheet 130 from the roller tube 5 causes the rotation of the roller tube 5. In some implementations, the rotation of the roller tube 5 causes rotation of the roller tube bottom attachment 22 and attached tether attachment 23
In some implementations, the rotation of the tether attachment 23 causes the tether 16 to wind onto the tether attachment 23. In some implementations, as the tether 16 is wound onto the tether attachment 23, the tether 16 pulls the retraction cart 13 toward the retracted side of the assembly 100.
In some implementations, an example method of operation of the roller blind assembly 100 comprises rotating the motor 32 in the applicable direction to retract the roller blind sheet 130. In some implementations, the rotation of the motor 32 causes the extended side sprocket 30 to rotate by the rotation of the motor shaft extension 34. In some implementations, the rotation of the sprocket 30 causes the attached chain 9 to travel in the associated direction in the path around the two cart tracks 8, 14.
In some implementations, as the chain 9 travels, the engaging extensions 9a, 9b on the chain 9 travel with the chain 9. In some implementations, the engaging extension 9a slides out of the cutout 6d on the extension cart 6 and travels away from the extension cart 6.
In some implementations, the chain attachment 9b travels towards the retraction cart 13. In some implementations, when the chain attachment 9b reaches the retraction cart 13, the attachment 9b slides into the cutout 13d on the retraction cart 13 until it reaches the end of the cutout 13d.
In some implementations, as the chain 9 continues to travel, the attachment 9b pushes the retraction cart 13 away from the roller tube 5 in the extend direction of the assembly 100.
In some implementations, as the retraction cart 13 is moved, the tether 16 is pulled by the retraction cart 13 and unwinds from the tether attachment 23. In some implementations, as the tether 16 unwinds from the tether attachment 23, this causes the roller tube 5 to rotate in the corresponding direction.
In some implementations, the rotation of the roller tube 5 causes the roller blind sheet 130 to retract and wind onto the roller tube 5. In some implementations, as the roller blind sheet 130 retracts and winds onto the roller tube 5, the extension cart 6 is pulled toward the retracted side of the assembly 100 at the coupling of the extension cart rod 7 inserted into the roller blind sleeve 1b.
As described above, in some implementations, the chain 9 may comprise a single engaging extension in place of the two extensions 9a, 9b. In some implementations, such single engaging extension can provide essentially the same or substantially similar function as the two extensions 9a, 9b such as described in the above example methods of use and operation of the roller blind assembly 100.
For example, in some implementations, the operation of the roller blind assembly 100 with such single engaging extension may slightly increase the amount of time for the engagement and coupling of the single engaging extension to the extension cart/assembly 6, 160 or the retraction cart/assembly 13, 170 during the operation of the assembly 100.
As another example, in some implementations, the operation of the roller blind assembly 100 with such single engaging extension may slightly increase the amount of time for the transition between the extension and the retraction of the roller blind sheet 130 during the operation of the assembly 100.
The figures, including photographs and drawings, comprised herewith may represent one or more implementations of the roller blind assembly.
Details shown in the figures, such as dimensions, descriptions, etc., are exemplary, and there may be implementations of other suitable details according to the present disclosure.
Reference throughout this specification to “an embodiment” or “implementation” or words of similar import means that a particular described feature, structure, or characteristic is comprised in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the phrase “in some implementations” or a phrase of similar import in various places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings.
The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the above description, numerous specific details are provided for a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that embodiments of the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations may not be shown or described in detail.
While operations may be depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results.
