In one aspect, a covering for an architectural structure includes a headrail, a bottom rail, and first and second lift straps extending between the headrail and the bottom rail. The covering also includes first and second lift spools rotatable to spool up the first and second lift straps, respectively, as the bottom rail is being moved relative to the headrail. The first lift strap winds on top of itself as the first lift strap is spooled onto the first lift spool, and the second lift strap winds on top of itself as the second lift strap is spooled onto the second lift spool. In addition, the covering includes a leveling shim provided in association with the first lift strap to provide a localized increase in an effective thickness of the first lift strap.
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
In one aspect, a roller shade includes a roller and a shade panel configured to be wound around and unwound from the roller to retract and extend the shade panel, respectively. The roller shade further includes a shade adapter coupled between the roller and the shade panel. The shade adapter includes a first adapter portion configured to be coupled to the roller, a second adapter portion configured to be coupled to the shade panel, and a connector panel portion extending between the first and second adapter portions. The second adapter portion allows the shade panel to be quickly and easily removed from and installed relative to the shade adapter and, thus, the roller.
A vertical curtain blind includes a panel assembly having a plurality of individual panels coupled together in a side-by-side arrangement. Each panel extends in a vertical direction between a top end and a bottom end. Additionally, each panel includes first and second pockets positioned along first and second sides of the panel, respectively, adjacent to the top end of the panel. The blind associated includes a plurality of clip assemblies, with each clip assembly being configured to couple a respective pair of adjacent panels of the plurality of panels together. Each clip assembly includes a first connector clip positioned within the first pocket of a first panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels and a second connector clip positioned within the second pocket of an adjacent second panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels, with the first connector clip configured to be coupled to the second connector clip.
In one aspect, a covering for an architectural structure includes a headrail, a bottom rail, and first and second lift straps extending between the headrail and the bottom rail. The covering also includes first and second lift spools rotatable to spool up the first and second lift straps, respectively, as the bottom rail is being moved relative to the headrail. The first lift strap winds on top of itself as the first lift strap is spooled onto the first lift spool, and the second lift strap winds on top of itself as the second lift strap is spooled onto the second lift spool. In addition, the covering includes a leveling shim provided in association with the first lift strap to provide a localized increase in an effective thickness of the first lift strap.
In one aspect, a covering for an architectural structure includes a headrail, a bottom rail, and first and second lift straps extending between the headrail and the bottom rail. The covering also includes first and second lift spools rotatable to spool up the first and second lift straps, respectively, as the bottom rail is being moved relative to the headrail. The first lift strap winds on top of itself as the first lift strap is spooled onto the first lift spool, and the second lift strap winds on top of itself as the second lift strap is spooled onto the second lift spool. In addition, the covering includes a leveling shim provided in association with the first lift strap to provide a localized increase in an effective thickness of the first lift strap.
In one aspect, a headrail assembly for a covering for an architectural structure includes a headrail and a tilt wand coupled to the headrail. The tilt wand includes a proximal end and a distal end spaced apart from the proximal end. The tilt wand is movable relative to the headrail between an operating position at which the tilt wand is suspended relative to the headrail at the proximal end of the tilt wand and a stowed position at which a portion of the tilt wand extending between the proximal and distal ends of the tilt wand is supported relative to the headrail. In addition, the headrail assembly includes a rail clip configured to couple the tilt wand to the headrail when the tilt wand is at the stowed position. The rail clip includes retention structure configured to retain the portion of the tilt wand relative to the headrail.
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
7.
RAIL CLIPS FOR STOWING A TILT WAND AND RELATED HEADRAIL ASSEMBLIES AND COVERINGS
In one aspect, a headrail assembly for a covering for an architectural structure includes a headrail and a tilt wand coupled to the headrail. The tilt wand includes a proximal end and a distal end spaced apart from the proximal end. The tilt wand is movable relative to the headrail between an operating position at which the tilt wand is suspended relative to the headrail at the proximal end of the tilt wand and a stowed position at which a portion of the tilt wand extending between the proximal and distal ends of the tilt wand is supported relative to the headrail. In addition, the headrail assembly includes a rail clip configured to couple the tilt wand to the headrail when the tilt wand is at the stowed position. The rail clip includes retention structure configured to retain the portion of the tilt wand relative to the headrail.
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
E06B 9/303 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre
8.
Vertical curtain blind and related connector clips and panels for use with a vertical curtain blind
A vertical curtain blind includes a panel assembly having a plurality of individual panels coupled together in a side-by-side arrangement. Each panel extends in a vertical direction between a top end and a bottom end. Additionally, each panel includes first and second pockets positioned along first and second sides of the panel, respectively, adjacent to the top end of the panel. The blind associated includes a plurality of clip assemblies, with each clip assembly being configured to couple a respective pair of adjacent panels of the plurality of panels together. Each clip assembly includes a first connector clip positioned within the first pocket of a first panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels and a second connector clip positioned within the second pocket of an adjacent second panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels, with the first connector clip configured to be coupled to the second connector clip.
A vertical curtain blind includes a panel assembly having a plurality of individual panels coupled together in a side-by-side arrangement. Each panel extends in a vertical direction between a top end and a bottom end. Additionally, each panel includes first and second pockets positioned along first and second sides of the panel, respectively, adjacent to the top end of the panel. The blind associated includes a plurality of clip assemblies, with each clip assembly being configured to couple a respective pair of adjacent panels of the plurality of panels together. Each clip assembly includes a first connector clip positioned within the first pocket of a first panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels and a second connector clip positioned within the second pocket of an adjacent second panel of the respective pair of adjacent panels, with the first connector clip configured to be coupled to the second connector clip.
In one aspect, a roller shade includes a roller and a shade panel configured to be wound around and unwound from the roller to retract and extend the shade panel, respectively. The roller shade further includes a shade adapter coupled between the roller and the shade panel. The shade adapter includes a first adapter portion configured to be coupled to the roller, a second adapter portion configured to be coupled to the shade panel, and a connector panel portion extending between the first and second adapter portions. The second adapter portion allows the shade panel to be quickly and easily removed from and installed relative to the shade adapter and, thus, the roller.
In one aspect, a roller shade includes a roller and a shade panel configured to be wound around and unwound from the roller to retract and extend the shade panel, respectively. The roller shade further includes a shade adapter coupled between the roller and the shade panel. The shade adapter includes a first adapter portion configured to be coupled to the roller, a second adapter portion configured to be coupled to the shade panel, and a connector panel portion extending between the first and second adapter portions. The second adapter portion allows the shade panel to be quickly and easily removed from and installed relative to the shade adapter and, thus, the roller.
A method for installing a covering relative to a frame of an architectural structure includes unfolding a package defining a cavity configured to store the covering, with the package including an alignment tool. Furthermore, the method includes positioning the alignment tool relative to the frame such that a first panel of the tool is positioned adjacent to a vertically-extending surface of the frame and a second panel of the tool is positioned adjacent to horizontally-extending surface of the frame. Additionally, the method includes forming mounting holes in one of the vertically-extending surface at first mounting hole locations identified by apertures defined by the first panel or the horizontally-extending surface of the frame at second mounting hole locations identified by apertures defined by the second panel.
B65D 5/42 - Réceptacles de section transversale polygonale rigides ou semi-rigides, p.ex. boîtes, cartons ou plateaux, formés en pliant ou montant un ou plusieurs flans de papier - Détails des réceptacles ou des flans de réceptacles pliables ou dressables
B65D 5/54 - Lignes de moindre résistance facilitant l'ouverture des réceptacles ou leur division en parties séparées, par découpage ou déchirement
B65D 5/20 - Réceptacles de section transversale polygonale rigides ou semi-rigides, p.ex. boîtes, cartons ou plateaux, formés en pliant ou montant un ou plusieurs flans de papier en repliant les parties reliées à un panneau central sur chaque côté pour former le corps du réceptacle, p.ex. en forme de plateau
E06B 9/24 - Ecrans ou autres dispositifs protecteurs contre la lumière, notamment contre la lumière solaire; Ecrans similaires pour protection de l'intimité ou pour des raisons esthétiques
13.
Leveling assembly for adjusting the levelness of a bottom rail of a covering for an architectural structure
In one aspect, a leveling assembly for adjusting the levelness or skew angle of a bottom rail of a covering for an architectural structure includes at least one movable or slideable component configured to be moved or slid laterally relative to the bottom rail or a headrail of the covering to adjust the length(s) along which one or more of the lift cords extend within the bottom rail or headrail, which, in turn, adjusts the effective length of such lift cord(s) defined between the bottom rail and the headrail of the covering. Such adjustment of the effective length(s) of the lift cord(s) results in the horizontal orientation or skew angle of the bottom rail being varied, thereby allowing the levelness of the bottom rail to be adjusted, as desired.
E06B 9/322 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage - Détails des dispositifs de manœuvre, p.ex. poulies, freins, tambours à ressorts, commandes
E06B 9/327 - Guides pour stores à lamelles relevables à lamelles horizontales
E06B 9/323 - Structure ou support du carter supérieur
14.
Bottom rail assembly for a covering for an architectural structure and related assembly methods
In various aspects, a covering for an architectural structure includes a bottom rail assembly that can be efficiently and effectively assembled during manufacturing of the covering. Specifically, in one embodiment, the bottom rail is configured such that one or more operating system components of the covering can be mounted within and directly supported by the bottom rail. In addition, a separate cover may be coupled to the bottom rail during the assembly process.
E06B 9/322 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage - Détails des dispositifs de manœuvre, p.ex. poulies, freins, tambours à ressorts, commandes
E06B 9/325 - Dispositifs d'immobilisation empêchant le relevage
15.
BOTTOM RAIL ASSEMBLY FOR A COVERING FOR AN ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURE AND RELATED ASSEMBLY METHODS
In various aspects, a covering for an architectural structure includes a bottom rail assembly that can be efficiently and effectively assembled during manufacturing of the covering. Specifically, in one embodiment, the bottom rail is configured such that one or more operating system components of the covering can be mounted within and directly supported by the bottom rail. In addition, a separate cover may be coupled to the bottom rail during the assembly process.
A finial comprises a body having a first end and a second end. A collar is attached to the first end using a first releasable connector. A crown is attached to the second end using a second releasable connector where the second releasable connector is independent from the first releasable connector. The body, crown and collar define an interior space where the interior space is open and unobstructed between the crown and the collar.
A window covering comprises a head rail and slats that are suspended from the head rail and have a plurality of edges that define a front plane. A tilter assembly is operatively connected to the slats for tilting the slats and comprises a wand shaft operatively connected to a worm gear. A drive gear operatively connected to a tilt shaft, and at least one idler gear connects the worm gear to the drive gear. The axis of rotation of the wand shaft is disposed at an angle relative to the plane to space a wand controller from the front plane. The wand shaft may include a wand connector that is releasably connected to the tilter assembly.
E06B 9/32 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage
E06B 9/28 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
18.
Blind packaging and methods of cutting window coverings
A package for a size-in-store window covering comprises a box having a first portion that extends for the width of the window covering and a second portion that extends for less than the width of the window covering. The window covering extends beyond an end of a bottom wall a first distance and the head rail extends beyond an end of a first side wall a second distance. A method of cutting a window covering comprises providing a window covering in a box as described above and positioning the box with the exposed portion of the window covering facing down and the exposed portion of the head rail facing a clamp. Methods of packaging a window covering comprise reducing the total number of loops in the window covering, and positioning inserts between adjacent components.
B65D 85/00 - Réceptacles, éléments d'emballage ou paquets spécialement adaptés à des objets ou à des matériaux particuliers
B65D 5/42 - Réceptacles de section transversale polygonale rigides ou semi-rigides, p.ex. boîtes, cartons ou plateaux, formés en pliant ou montant un ou plusieurs flans de papier - Détails des réceptacles ou des flans de réceptacles pliables ou dressables
E06B 9/266 - Dispositifs ou accessoires pour fabriquer ou monter des stores à lamelles ou des éléments de ceux-ci
E06B 9/30 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables
B26D 7/02 - Moyens pour maintenir ou mettre en position la pièce comportant des moyens de serrage
B65B 23/20 - Emballage des vitres, tuiles ou ardoises
B65B 61/20 - Dispositifs accessoires, non prévus ailleurs, opérant sur feuilles, flans, bandes, attaches, réceptacles ou paquets pour ajouter des cartes, des coupons ou d'autres encarts au contenu
A slatted blind is configured such that the slats close create a light blocking blind. The slats may be supported by a tilt cord that comprises a low stretch strand or a low stretch cord may be attached to the tilt cord. The slats may be connected to the supporting tilt cord such that when the slat is rotated to a closed position the slat is suspended from the rung. The rung may have an effective diameter of less than approximately 14 mil. Recesses may be formed in the slat for receiving the rung when the slat is in a closed position. A bottom rail may have a thickness approximately equal to the thickness of the slats. A protrusion may be formed on the back of the slats such that the rung pushes on the protrusion to force the slat against an adjacent slat when the blind is closed.
E06B 9/303 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
E06B 9/384 - Autres détails - Détails de l'interconnexion ou de l'interaction des courroies et des lamelles
E06B 9/386 - Autres détails - Détails des lamelles
In one embodiment, a window covering comprises a panel having a lateral edge where the panel is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. A side track is secured to the panel such that as the panel is moved between the raised position and the lowered position the side track is extended along the lateral edge. The side track changes from a first geometry to a second geometry as the side track is extended.
E06B 7/16 - Dispositions d'étanchéité sur les battants ou les parties qui travaillent avec les battants
E06B 7/20 - Dispositions d'étanchéité sur les battants ou les parties qui travaillent avec les battants par bourrelets amovibles, p.ex. obturateurs d'air utilisés additionnellement pour le verrouillage retirés automatiquement à l'ouverture du battant
A window covering comprises slats suspended from a tilt cord such that the tilt cord may rotate the slats between an open position and a closed position. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position. A mechanism such as a spring or a magnet applies a closing force to the slats in the closed position separate from the tilt cord where the closing force moves the slats toward one another. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position.
E06B 9/303 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre
E06B 9/32 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage
E06B 9/307 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables avec courroie de manœuvre - détails des tiges d'inclinaison ou leur manœuvre
E06B 9/386 - Autres détails - Détails des lamelles
A window covering comprises slats suspended from a tilt cord such that the tilt cord may rotate the slats between an open position and a closed position. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position. A mechanism such as a spring or a magnet applies a closing force to the slats in the closed position separate from the tilt cord where the closing force moves the slats toward one another. An elastic seal is provided on the slats to contact adjacent slats when the slats are in the closed position.
An apparatus for cutting a window covering and methods of cutting a window covering are provided. A method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprises a) packaging a window covering comprising components in a package such that first ends of the components extend beyond a first end of the package and second ends of the components extend beyond a second end of the package; b) automatically moving the package and components in a first direction of travel against a first squaring surface such that the first ends of the components are in a common plane; c) cutting the first ends of the components; d) automatically moving the package and components in a second direction of travel against a second squaring surface such that the second ends of the components are in a common plane; and e) cutting the second ends of the components.
A window covering includes a head rail that supports a panel by lift cords such that one end of the panel may be raised and lowered relative to the head rail. An operating system controls movement of the panel and includes spools coupled to the lift cords such that rotation of the spools retracts and extends the lift cords. A shaft is connected to a spool of the lift spool assembly and to a brake and a spring motor. The spring motor applies a motor force to the shaft and the brake applies a brake force to the shaft such that the forces generated by the spring motor and brake hold the panel in the desired position.
E06B 9/68 - Dispositifs ou mécanismes de manœuvre, p.ex. à entraînement électrique
E06B 9/322 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage - Détails des dispositifs de manœuvre, p.ex. poulies, freins, tambours à ressorts, commandes
A method and apparatus of ordering a window covering comprises providing a measuring block that is mounted adjacent an architectural feature to be measured. A digital photograph is taken of the architectural feature with the measuring block. A display resolution of the photograph is determined. A scale of the photograph is determined using the measuring block. A dimension of the architectural feature is calculated based on the scale of the photograph. The window covering is cut to the calculated dimension.
G06Q 10/06 - Ressources, gestion de tâches, des ressources humaines ou de projets; Planification d’entreprise ou d’organisation; Modélisation d’entreprise ou d’organisation
G06Q 10/08 - Logistique, p.ex. entreposage, chargement ou distribution; Gestion d’inventaires ou de stocks
B26D 5/30 - Dispositions pour manœuvrer et commander les machines ou les dispositifs de coupe, découpage, poinçonnage, perforation ou séparation autrement que par coupe l'organe de coupe et d'avance de la pièce ayant une action conjuguée l'organe de coupe étant commandé par balayage d'un support d'enregistrement
B23D 45/00 - Machines à scier ou dispositifs de sciage à lames circulaires ou à disques à friction
E06B 9/266 - Dispositifs ou accessoires pour fabriquer ou monter des stores à lamelles ou des éléments de ceux-ci
G06Q 99/00 - Matière non couverte par les autres groupes de la présente sous-classe
B26D 7/02 - Moyens pour maintenir ou mettre en position la pièce comportant des moyens de serrage
The drapery display hanger comprises a plurality of drapery arms and a support surface. The support surface can be easily and reversibly mounted to a pre-existing display fixture without the need for special hardware. The support surface can include brackets having opposing surfaces angled from vertical for ease of installation and protrusions for securing the support surfaces in place once installed. Additionally, the drapery arms can be reversibly attached to the support surface using attachment devices at the end of each arm. The attachment devices may include segments that are inserted into the holes in the support and then secured against the walls of the support for bearing the weight of drapery on the drapery arms. Sliding and pivoting functionality is also provided. The drapery arms are sized so that full-sized draperies can be displayed facing the customer and without compressing the drapery in the display.
A slatted blind is configured such that the slats close create a light blocking blind. The slats may be supported by a tilt cord that comprises a low stretch strand or a low stretch cord may be attached to the tilt cord. The slats may be connected to the supporting tilt cord such that when the slat is rotated to a closed position the slat is suspended from the rung. The rung may have an effective diameter of less than approximately 14 mil. Recesses may be formed in the slat for receiving the rung when the slat is in a closed position. A bottom rail may have a thickness approximately equal to the thickness of the slats. A protrusion may be formed on the back of the slats such that the rung pushes on the protrusion to force the slat against an adjacent slat when the blind is closed.
A safety device for a window covering comprises a head rail and a shade panel extending from the head rail. A lift cord extends along one side of the shade panel between the head rail and the bottom of the shade panel. A safety device engages the lift cord to control the movement of the lift cord away from the shade panel. The safety device may also shroud the lift cord to limit access to the lift cord portion.
A47H 5/00 - Dispositifs pour tirer tentures, rideaux ou similaires
E06B 3/32 - Aménagements des battants caractérisés par le genre de mouvement; Aménagements des battants modèles dans les ouvertures; Caractéristiques des battants ou châssis ayant trait uniquement au genre de mouvement du battant
E06B 3/48 - Battants reliés par leurs bords, p.ex. battants repliables
E06B 9/262 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à bandes horizontales ou verticales reliées entre elles de façon souple; Stores en accordéon
A display for a shelving unit of the type having a bay defined in part by lower and upper horizontal supports that comprises a first rail mounted on the lower horizontal support and a second rail mounted on the upper horizontal support. A body is disposed between the first and second rails. The body is in free moving contact with the first rail and the second rail such that the body is freely movable along the length of the rails. The body supports a user interface device. The display of the invention may be used where the user interface controls the functions of a co-located machine.
A package for a size-in-store window covering comprises a box having a first portion that extends for the width of the window covering and a second portion that extends for less than the width of the window covering. The window covering extends beyond an end of a bottom wall a first distance and the head rail extends beyond an end of a first side wall a second distance. A method of cutting a window covering comprises providing a window covering in a box as described above and positioning the box with the exposed portion of the window covering facing down and the exposed portion of the head rail facing a clamp. Methods of packaging a window covering comprise reducing the total number of loops in the window covering, and positioning inserts between adjacent components.
B65D 85/00 - Réceptacles, éléments d'emballage ou paquets spécialement adaptés à des objets ou à des matériaux particuliers
B65D 5/42 - Réceptacles de section transversale polygonale rigides ou semi-rigides, p.ex. boîtes, cartons ou plateaux, formés en pliant ou montant un ou plusieurs flans de papier - Détails des réceptacles ou des flans de réceptacles pliables ou dressables
E06B 9/266 - Dispositifs ou accessoires pour fabriquer ou monter des stores à lamelles ou des éléments de ceux-ci
E06B 9/30 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à lamelles horizontales, p.ex. non levables levables
An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a saw blade for cutting a plurality of different types of window coverings. A first controllable drive moves the saw blade into engagement with a window covering selected from the plurality of different types of the window coverings. A second controllable drive for rotates the saw blade. A preferred saw blade feed rate and a preferred saw blade speed for each of the plurality of different types of window coverings is determined. The first variable drive and the second variable drive are controlled based on the preferred saw blade feed rate and the preferred saw blade speed for the window covering being cut.
B26D 7/08 - Moyens de traitement de la pièce ou de l'outil de coupe pour faciliter la coupe
B23D 59/00 - Dispositifs annexes spécialement conçus pour les machines à scier ou les dispositifs de sciage
E06B 9/266 - Dispositifs ou accessoires pour fabriquer ou monter des stores à lamelles ou des éléments de ceux-ci
B23D 45/00 - Machines à scier ou dispositifs de sciage à lames circulaires ou à disques à friction
E06B 9/24 - Ecrans ou autres dispositifs protecteurs contre la lumière, notamment contre la lumière solaire; Ecrans similaires pour protection de l'intimité ou pour des raisons esthétiques
An apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a lateral support surface and a saw for cutting the window covering positioned at an end of the lateral support surface. An engagement member locates the center of the window covering that is retractably mounted on the lateral support surface. A clamp assembly comprises a clamping jaw that is movable to a first position where the clamping jaw presses the window covering against the lateral support surface. The clamp assembly is movable relative to the first saw and the second saw. A controller for moves the clamp assembly to automatically position a first end of the window covering relative to the first saw and a second end of the window covering relative to the second saw. Methods of cutting a window covering are also provided.
An apparatus for cutting a window covering and methods of cutting a window covering are provided. A method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprises a) packaging a window covering comprising components in a package such that first ends of the components extend beyond a first end of the package and second ends of the components extend beyond a second end of the package; b) automatically moving the package and components in a first direction of travel against a first squaring surface such that the first ends of the components are in a common plane; c) cutting the first ends of the components; d) automatically moving the package and components in a second direction of travel against a second squaring surface such that the second ends of the components are in a common plane; and e) cutting the second ends of the components.
A method and apparatus for cutting a vertical window covering are disclosed. One method of operating a window covering cutting machine comprises retaining a window covering in a package such that a first end of the window covering is located at a known first position relative to the package. An engagement element is provided on the package that is located at a known second position on the package. The engagement element is moved a distance from a saw to obtain a final dimension of the window covering where the distance is calculated using the first position and the second position.
B26D 1/157 - Coupe d'une pièce caractérisée par la nature ou par le mouvement de l'élément coupant; Appareils ou machines à cet effet; Eléments coupants à cet effet comportant un élément qui ne suit pas le mouvement de la pièce ayant un élément coupant se déplaçant autour d'un axe avec un élément circulaire, p.ex. un disque tournant autour d'un axe mobile
The lift motor comprises at least one motor unit releasably connected to at least one spool unit. The spool unit comprises a spool for winding a cord and a gear operatively connected to the spool. The motor unit comprises a spring motor having a gear for engaging the gear of the spool. A window covering comprises a head rail supporting a motor as set forth above that supports a shade panel by the cord. A method of assembling a window covering comprises constructing a head rail having an internal space for receiving a motor. A motor is assembled based on the shade panel to be supported. The motor is inserted into the head rail and the cord is attached to or near the bottom or top of the shade panel.
E06B 9/322 - Dispositifs de manœuvre, de guidage ou de verrouillage - Détails des dispositifs de manœuvre, p.ex. poulies, freins, tambours à ressorts, commandes
The window covering and shade panel comprise a head rail that supports a shade panel and that may be mounted to a wall, window frame, door or other architectural feature. A layer of film is used with the panel to provide a barrier to air flow and heat insulation. The film may be clear to allow light to penetrate the panel. The clear film allows the heat energy of the sun to pass through the panel while blocking cold air from entering the room. In one embodiment a polyester clear film is chemically adhered to the panel.
E06B 9/06 - Volets, grillages amovibles ou autres dispositifs de fermeture de sécurité, p.ex. contre l'effraction rabattables ou repliables, p.ex. du type à soufflet ou en accordéon
E06B 9/262 - Stores à lamelles ou similaires, p.ex. stores vénitiens à bandes horizontales ou verticales reliées entre elles de façon souple; Stores en accordéon
A method and apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises saw for cutting the window blind. A clamp assembly moves the window covering relative to the saw. A controller moves the clamp assembly to automatically position the window covering relative to the saw. The saw is moved into engagement with the window covering to cut the window covering.
A method and apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises a saw for cutting the window blind. An assembly is provided for moving the window covering on the support surface relative to the saw such that the window covering is positioned to be cut by the saw. A sensor is used to automatically determine a center of the window covering by detecting a predetermined portion of the window covering such as a mark on the window covering or an edge of the window covering.
The hardware for mounting the blinds is located in the head rail such that it does not interfere with the cutting operation but remains with the blind after the blind is cut-to-size. The hardware overlaps with a blind component and the hardware may include a mounting bracket that includes a notch for receiving the blind component. The ends of the blinds are aligned in a package by the manufacturer during the packaging process. The blinds are secured in the package such that the blind elements are properly aligned. The aligned blinds and the package are inserted into a cutting machine as a unit and the cutting machine cuts the blinds and the package simultaneously.
A method and apparatus for cutting a window covering comprises saw for cutting the window blind. A clamp assembly moves the window covering relative to the saw. A controller moves the clamp assembly to automatically position the window covering relative to the saw. The saw is moved into engagement with the window covering to cut the window covering.
A window covering having a flexible panel and a first lift cord for raising the flexible panel. A second panel is at least partially coextensive with the flexible panel and a second lift cord is provided for raising the second panel. The flexible panel may have an upper edge and a lower edge where the upper edge is connected to a head rail and the lower edge is disposed below the head rail. The second lift cord may raise the upper edge of the second panel. In one embodiment a third panel at least partially coextensive with a portion of the flexible panel and a third lift cord for raising the top edge of the third panel are provided. The light blocking characteristic of the blind is changed by the placement of the panels.
A window covering comprises a flexible panel having a top edge and a bottom edge. At least one lift cord is provided for raising and lowering the bottom edge. Each lift cord is connected to one end of a stiffener at a first point and the opposite end of the stiffener is connected to approximately the bottom edge of the flexible panel. The stiffener prevents the folding of the flexible panel between the bottom edge and the first point. The top edge may be connected to a head rail and the bottom edge may be connected to a bottom rail. A motor may be located adjacent the top rail where the lift cord is connected to the motor.
The arched window covering comprises a head rail that is mounted to an architectural feature. A mounting track is mounted to the arched architectural feature and a slider track is snap fit to the mounting track. The slider track includes support portions extending therefrom that slidably support a plurality of sliders such that the sliders can be moved relative to the slider track. The sliders are connected to a shade panel such that movement of the sliders on the slider track results in the extension and retraction of the shade panel.
A shade comprises a head rail that supports the lift cords for a shade panel. The shade panel includes a plurality of cells secured to one another. A bottom rail is secured to the lower edge of the panel and to which the lift cords are connected for raising and lowering the bottom of the shade panel. The upper edge of the panel is defined by a horizontally extending top cell that is substantially the same as the other cells that create the panel. A rigid bar insert is located within the top cell that extends for substantially the entire length of the top cell. The lift cords for raising and lowering the upper edge of the panel extend through the top cell and are connected to the bar.
E06B 9/06 - Volets, grillages amovibles ou autres dispositifs de fermeture de sécurité, p.ex. contre l'effraction rabattables ou repliables, p.ex. du type à soufflet ou en accordéon
56.
Method and apparatus for mobile blind installation
The apparatus comprises a vehicle in which a blind cutting machine is installed. A supply of blinds in different sizes, styles, fabrics and finishes is also maintained in the vehicle. The vehicle travels to the customer premise. Once the blind is selected by the customer, the installer measures the architectural feature to be covered to determine the final dimensions of the blind. The installer then cuts the selected blind to the desired size using the cutting machine. After the blind is cut to the proper size, it is mounted on the architectural feature. The selection, measurement, sizing and installation of the blind are accomplished during a single visit to the customer premise.
B23P 13/00 - Fabrication d'objets métalliques par des opérations impliquant un usinage à la machine, mais non couvertes par une seule autre sous-classe
B60P 3/14 - Véhicules adaptés pour transporter, porter ou comporter des charges ou des objets spéciaux l'objet étant un atelier pour l'entretien, la maintenance ou pour transporter des ouvriers pendant le travail
A method and apparatus for sizing window coverings slidably extendable from a bay into an aisle of a retail outlet. The method includes the steps of locating the center of the window covering relative to a cutting station utilizing a half scale for removing a portion of the window covering from each of its ends.
B23Q 15/22 - Commande ou régulation de la position de l'outil ou de la pièce
E06B 9/266 - Dispositifs ou accessoires pour fabriquer ou monter des stores à lamelles ou des éléments de ceux-ci
B23D 45/02 - Machines à scier ou dispositifs de sciage à lames circulaires ou à disques à friction la lame circulaire ou la pièce à scier étant montée sur un chariot
B23D 45/06 - Machines à scier ou dispositifs de sciage à lames circulaires ou à disques à friction la lame circulaire étant fixée sous une table de travail fixe
58.
Method and apparatus for fixing the length of a pull cord
An adjustable cord restraining device for a blind assembly having a head rail, a bottom rail and at least one pull cord extending through a cord passage of the head rail and coupled to the bottom rail includes an annular member sufficiently sized to prevent entry of the annular member into the cord passage of the head rail and further travel of the pull cord through the head rail. A method of preventing the further extension of a pull cord includes obtaining an annular member sized larger than a pull cord passageway of a head rail pinching a mid-section of the pull cord and inserting the pinched portion of the mid-section through the annular member, forming a loop with the pull cord, inserting a free end of the pull cord through the loop to form an adjustable knot.
A blind cutting apparatus includes a support surface adapted to support a window covering, a frame disposed at the end of the support surface and a rack movable within the frame. A plurality of die assemblies are fastened to the rack, in which each die assembly includes a fixed die that has openings sized to receive the ends of the window covering and a movable die that is movable relative to the fixed die. The fixed dies and the movable dies are adapted to cut the ends of the window covering. The rack is adapted to move relative to the support surface such that a selected die assembly is adjacent the support surface and the moveable die of the selected die assembly is independently moveable of the moveable dies of the other die assemblies.
B26D 1/04 - Coupe d'une pièce caractérisée par la nature ou par le mouvement de l'élément coupant; Appareils ou machines à cet effet; Eléments coupants à cet effet comportant un élément qui ne suit pas le mouvement de la pièce ayant un élément coupant se déplaçant linéairement
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