CA1262089B - Track for blinds - Google Patents
Track for blindsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1262089B CA1262089B CA574,914A CA574914A CA1262089B CA 1262089 B CA1262089 B CA 1262089B CA 574914 A CA574914 A CA 574914A CA 1262089 B CA1262089 B CA 1262089B
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- traveller
- lead
- blind apparatus
- travellers
- corner
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
- E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
- E06B9/36—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with vertical lamellae ; Supporting rails therefor
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A blind apparatus comprising at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a path of predetermined length from an open to closed positions, a group of travellers associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidable within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected to a rotation shaft whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, longitudinal controls attachable to the lead travellers, and a flexible coupling connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
A blind apparatus comprising at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a path of predetermined length from an open to closed positions, a group of travellers associated with each lead traveller, the travellers being slidable within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected to a rotation shaft whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, longitudinal controls attachable to the lead travellers, and a flexible coupling connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
Description
N ATU R~ OF T~l E _VENT I ON
The invention relates to an apparatus for operating blinds, and in particular, the invention relates to an apparatus for operating vertical blinds around a corner.
BACKGROUND OF T~l~ INVENTI_ Vertical blinds are well known for use in homes and in o~fices. Such blinds yenerally comprise a plurality of even]y spaced vertical sla-ts, downwardly depending from travellers held in a horizontal -track.
The track is aEfixed to -the ceiling or upper casement of a window. Each slat is rotatably attached to a single traveller which i5 slidable within the track.
Commonly, a horizon-tal shaft connects all the travellers.
Rotation of the shaft causes, through a suitable means (such as a worm gear) in each traveller,t~le slats to rotate in unison. Each traveller is connected to one adjacent traveller by suitable connection means whereby, in one direction each traveller can be moved to contact another traveller and in an opposite direc-tion each traveller is spaced apart Erom an adjacen-t traveller ~y a predetermined amount. Sui-table control means (such as cords, chains, or shaEts) are provided whereby the travellers can be moved longitudinally alon~ -the tracJc and whereby the shaft can be rotated to cause rotation of the vert:ical slats. Generally, such control means are located at one end of the vertical blind apparatus.
In existing vertlcal blind appara-tuses the horizontal track is straight. In order to have vertical blinds on both sides of a corner, for instance in a ~262~1~9 bay window or in a room having glass sides joining a-t corners, it is necessary -to have a separate vertical blind arrangement along each window. Each vertical blind unit mus-t be operated individually, independen-tly oE the other vertical blind arrangements. Each ver-tical blind arrangement re~uires its own control cords or shafts.
These requirements add inconvenience and added expense to the vertical blind system. ~s well, the addltional control cords or shafts detract from the aesthetic appearance of the window.
It would thereEore be advantageous -to provide a vertical blind apparatus which could be operable around corners and which would require only a single control cord or shaf-t. Furthermore, it would be also advantageous if such an appara-tus could be devised to opera;te around a mul-tiplicity of corners along different lengths of window. Furthermore~ in certain applications it would also be advantageous if the blind apparatus could be oriented in any posi-tion including vertically, horizontally or in any other position.
ST~TEMENT OF TIIE INVENTION
With a view to overcoming the above disadvan-tages and to providing the above advantages, the invention comprises a blind apparatus comprising at least two -tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebe-tween, the tracks defining -two opposite ends remo-te from such corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located rela-tive to each track, support means affixed to each track ~or supporting the rotation ~2~ 9 shaft, a-t least one lead traveller slidably received within each -track, each lead traveller being const~ained to move along a lead -traveller path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end oE the path, a plurallty of travellers,forming a group, associated with each lead traveller, -the travellers bein~ slidably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable t.ransmission means to one of therotation shafts whereby upon ro-tation of the ro-ta-tion shaft, -the sla-t shaEt may be rotated, adjacent travellers in -the same group being connected by a connec-tion means, each lead -traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means at-tachable to the lead -travellers, rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rota-tion shafts at the corner.
The invention achieves the above advantages by providing a rotation shaft wi-thin the track along -the top of each window. Each shaft is connected -to an adjacent shaft around a corner by a sui-table Iniversal flexible coupling means, whereby ro-tation of one shaft will induce rotation in -the other shaft. Furthermore, a lead -traveller wi-th -the longest lead traveller path is fixed -to a control cord. The control corcl is also provided with pairs of traveller engagement means, one such pair being associated with -the o-ther lead travellers.
The me~ers of the pairs of traveller engagement means ... . . . ..
.
6~9 are spaced apart from each o-ther on each side o-E the lead traveller. The spacing between -the members of each pair is such -that all travellers in the vertical blind apparatus will reach the fully opened or -the fully clo~e~l po~iti~n at th~ s~me time.
The various features of novel-ty which characterize the invention are poin-ted ou-t with particulari-ty in the claims annexed to and Eorming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descrip-tive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodimen-ts of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bay window having a vertical blind apparatus accordincJ
to the invention;
Figure 2 is an expanded perspec-tive view, partly cut-away, illustrating one embodiment oE a vertical blind appara-tus a-t a corner, according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic bottom plan view of a vertical blind apparatus according to the inven--tion, illustrating longikuclinal control means;
Figure ~ is a perspective view of a lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one embodiment of the invention;
~igure S is a perspective view oE a second lead traveller as it may be incorporated in-to one ~6~a~
embodiment of the invention, and, Figure 6 is a perspec-tive view of an alternate lead -traveller as it may be incorporated into a further embodiment of the invention.
_ETAILED DFSCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMsoDIMENT
~ eferr:ing to Figure 1, there is illustrated a bay window indicated generally as 10. say window 10 comprises three sides - namely, left side 12, front side 14, and right side 16. Left side 12 is joined to front side 14 a-t corner 18. Similarly, front side 14 and right side 16 are joined at another corner 20. The sides 12, 14 and 16 may each define different lengths. As well, corners 18 and 20 may define different angles. The left side 12 of win~ow 10 includes an upper casement 22. Similarly, sides 14 and 16 include upper casements 24 and 26 respectively.
vertical blind apparatus, according to the invention, indicated generally as 28, is affixed to and depends downwardly from upper casements 22, 24 and 26.
Vertical blind appara-tus 28 comprises hori-zontal tracks 30, 32 and 34 affixed respec-tively -to upper casements 22, 24 and 26 and mitered together at corners 18 and 20. Slidably held within tracks 30, 32 and 34 are a plurality of travellers 36 (see Figure 2). Rotatably attached to each traveller 36 is a downwardly depending slat 38. Slat 38 generally com-prises an opaque materiaI, so tha-t when the vertical blind appara-tus 28 is in a closed position light is ~ prevented from entering bay window 10.
; 30 Travellers 36 slidably support slats 38.
~2~g Furthermore, travellers 36 are in-terconnected by suitable connection means, as discussed below, Eor longitudinally moving the travellers 36.
For convenient operation, free ends 54a and 56a of longitudinal control cords 54 and 56 depend from one end of track 34 at one end of vertical blind appara-tus 28. A suitable pulley (not shown) may be provided a-t such end -to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. Cords 54 and 56 are connected, as disclosed herein, -to a lead -traveller (as, for example, lead traveller 36a or 36b in Figure 3) in each track 30, 32 and 34. At an opposite end of vertical blind apparatus 28, cords 54 and 56 are joined together and, irl fact, may be integral with each o-ther. A suitable pulley (no-t shown) may be provided at such opposite end to allow for smooth movemen-t of cords 54 and 56. The Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56, ;^espectively, may be tied or otherwise connected together and, in fact, may be integral with each other.
Cords 54 and 56 may be pulled to rnove -travellers 36 longitudinally within tracks 30, 32 and 34. Such lonyitudinal movemen-t causes slats 38 to be drawn sideways between open and closed positions, as well as throu~h intermediate positions ~herebetween~
In order to rotate sla-ts 38, travellers 36 are each connec-ted to a-rota-tion shaft 40 (see Figure 2), as described below. In order -to rotate shaft 40 a sui-table rotation control means, such as cord 41, is provided. Cord ~1 depends from shaft 40, preferably ~L2~i2~g at -the same end of traclc 34 as free ends 54a and 56a of cords 5~ ancl 56. Sui-table me~ns (such as a pulley 43) is provided whereby movement of cord 41 will rotate shaft 40. It will be appreciated that other control means, such as chains, shafts or -the like, may be used.
Rotation transmission means, typically worm gears (not shown), are incorporated in each traveller 36, and connected between -the ro-tation shaft 40 and respective sla-ts 3~. Ro-tation of such worm year rota-tes the slats 38.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are movable along lead traveller paths 35 and 33, respectively (indicated in phantom in FicJure 3). Paths 35 and 33 have pre determined pa-th lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, such path lengths correspond generally to -the length of the tracks 32 and 3~ (with an allowance for the : length of the collapsed travellers 36 in the open posi-tion). However, the path lengths could be re-s-tricted to any frac-tion of the len~ths of the tracks 32 and 34. Such restriction may be necessary, for example, in -the situation where more -than one lead -traveller is provided in the same -track (as in the case o e a cen-tre pull opening or multiple opening vertical blind apparatus).
~11 oE -the above described Eeatures are well known in the art. I-t is not in-tended to restrict the scope of the invention to the particular window arrangement or track arran~ement illustra-ted. ~a-ther i-t is th~ intention that the scope of the i.nvention , ~21~2~
cover any application of a vertical blind apparatus de~ining regular or rounded corners. Similarly, it is not intenaed -to re~tric-t the scope of the invention to the particular track and traveller assemblies disclosed. Rather, it is -the in-tention that the scope of -the invention include any track design and traveller design.
~ eEerring to Figure 2, -there are illustrated tracks 32 and 34 meetiny at a corner,indicated generally as 20. Figure 2 provides an expanded view of corner 20 for ease of understanding. Tracks 32 and 3~ are affixed by any suitable means -to upper casements 24 and 26, respectively (see Figure 1). Travellers 36 are slidably held within tracks 32 and 34. Each traveller 36 includes a rotatable slat shaf-t 37. A sla-t 38 is affixed to each slat shaft 37.
A rotation shaft 40 extends along the length of each track 32 and 3~ from one end to the other.
Shaft 40 is rotatably supported by a suitable support meansl such as bearing blocks ~2 affixed at each end of -tracks 32 and 34. Bearing block 42 defines a sui-table hole allowing shaft ~0 to extend there -through. Similarly, each traveller 36 defines a sui-table opening allowing shaft 40 to pass therethrough.
A suitable gear or other transmission means (not shown) is included in each travel:er 36 and is ada~-ted to cooperate with shat ~0, whereby rotation of shaft ~0 will induce each sla-t shaft 37 to rotate. I~otation of slat shaf-ts 37 in unison will cause sla-ts 38 to either open or close, as desired. In order -to rotate ~26~
shaft 40, a suitable pulley ~3, or other means, may be attached at one end of shaf-t 40 and may be operable by a suitable cord, chain or other means (see cord 41 in Figure l).
Adjacent shafts 40 are connec-ted together at corner 20 by flexible coupling means ~4. The bearing blocks 42 are arranged at either end of the flexible coupling means 44 -to locate -the ends of the shafts 40 adjacent the flexible coupling means ~4. In the illustra-ted embodiment, flexible coupling means ~4 comprises a cylindrical helical spring 46 affixed to collars 48 at each end. Collars 48 in turn are affixed by sui-table means, such as se-t screw 50, to each shaft - 40. For protection and Eor ease of rotation, washers 52 may be inserted in place between collars 48 and bearing blocks 42. Each collar ~8 de~ines a boss 48a extending therefrom in order to assist in affixing spring 46 to collars 48. The spring q6 may be wrapped around and afEixed to the bosses 48a by suitable means.
O-ther Elexible coupling means may be used.
For example,a spring, a universal joint, or a series of universal joints, a 1exible hose (such as a rubber hose) or a ~lexible cable (such as is used in a speedometer cable) may be used.
As described below, cords 54 and 56 are used to move travellers 36 longi-tudinally within tracks 32 and 34 in order to open and close -the vertical blind apparatus 28. In order -to allow ~ords 54 and 56 to pass without restriction around corner 20, a dual pulley arrange-ment 58 is affixed between -tracks 3~ and 32 at corner `, 2~. Dual pulley 58 includes two pulley wheels 58a, rotatable in opposite directions. Cord 54 lies within the groove oE one such pulley wheel 58a and Cord 56 lies within the groove of -the other pulley wheel 58a.
In other emb~diments it may not be necessary to use a clual pulley 58. For instance, a smooth rouncled plate, effectively rounding off corner 20 or a bent hollow tube may be found suitable. I-lowever, it has been ~ound that upon occasion such pla-tes or tubes may cause cords 54 and 56 -to bind together, thereby interfering with -the smooth functioning oE -the vertical blind apparatus. I-t has been ~ound that the dual pulley arrangement is preferable~
Referring to Figure 3, a schematic plan view of tracks 32 and 34 meeting at corner 20 is pro-vided. The ou-tline of tracks 32 and 39 is shown in phantom. ~ravellers 36 are constrained -to move within tracks 32 and 34. Lead traveller path 35 in track 34 is somewhat longer than lead traveller path 33 in track 32. The vertical blind apparatus 28 o~ Figure 3 is shown in the open position.
In order to allow the vertical blind apparatus 28 to open and close evenl~, even -though paths 33 and 35 are o~ different lengths, cords 5q and 56 are pro-vided. Cords 5~ and 56 are in-tegral wi-th each other, or tied together,a-t one ènd. A-t the other end the free ends 54a and 56a oE cords 54 and 56 depend downwardly.
A human operator rnay open and close the blinds by pulling on the Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 5~ and 56.
Cord 56 is attached -to c lead -traveller 36a having the lor;gest path, in -tnis qase path 35. Cord 5LI is attachable, as described below, to a lead -traveller 36b in pa-th 33, the shorter pa-th.
ReEerring -to Fig~lre ~, lead -traveller 36a is illustrated. One means of at~aching cord 56 -to traveller 36a is to a-ttach traveller engagement means 6~ to cord 56 between two panels 66 and 68 of traveller 36a. Panels 66 and 68 de~ine sui-table openings allow-ing cord 56 to pass therethrough. When cord 56 is pulled in one direction or the other, engagement means 6~ will engage and abut agains-t ei-ther panel 66 or panel 68, thereby causing lead traveller 36a to move.
Engagemen-t means 64 may comprise a spherical ball which is crimped abou-t cord 56. Other means oE attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a may be used. For e~ample, cord 56 may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion o~ traveller 36a.
Re~erring -to Figllre 5, lead traveller 36b is shown. Traveller 36b may include panels 70 and 72, each panel 70 and 72 defining an opening 7~ therein. Cord 5~ passes through openings 7~.
~etween panels 70 ancl 7~ a washer 76 is loosely suspended around cord 5~ The oucer diameter of washer 76 is su~icient.y large -that washer 76 canno-t pass through openings 7LI. Wi-th -the ver-tical blind apparatus 28 in the ~ul~y open position and cord 5~ being pulled taut anc aLout -t~ commence closing vertical blind apparatu~ 2l~, ~raveller engagement means B~ is afflxed t'~ c~i^d S~ ad~aceni: panel 72.
a~
Similarly, en~agemen-t means 78 is affixed to cord 56, but is spaced apart from engagement means 80 by an amount abou-t equal to the difference in length be-tween paths 35 and 33. Enga~ement means 78 and 80 may comprise spherical balls or beads which are crimped about cord 5~. The diameters of en~a~ement means 78 and 80 are sufficiently small to pass -through openings 74 in panels 72 and 70, but are also sufficiently large that they may not pass thro~lgh a central aperture 77 of washer 76.
Cords 5~ and 56 are only a-ttached or attachable to -the lead travellers 36a and 36b.
Cords 54 and 56 pass around or through -Lhe other travellers 36 (ac suitable openings provided therein) and are not attached or at-tachable -thereto.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are each connec-ted to an adjacent traveller 36 (which in turn is connected to a train o~ subsequent slider blDcks 36) by suitable connector means 82.
Connector means 82 is operable whereby when leacl traveller 36a or 36b is moved a predetermined distance in the closin~ direc~ion, such traveller 36a or 36b will commence pulling the subsequent traveller 36. When the lead traveller 36a or 36b :is moved in an openin~ direc-tion, the connecto~ means 82 is operable to allow ~:he lead traveller 36a or 36b to approach ancl abut~a~ains-t an adjacent traveller 36. Thereaft~r further movemerlt of :lead -travel:Ler 36a or 36b will also cause travellers 36 -to move as well. Subsequent 2~
~o travellers 36 are either opened or closed ln corres-ponding fashion by in-terconnecting connector means 82 linking adjacent -travellers 36.
In the illustrated embodiments, connector means 82 comprises a sti~f strip 84 havin~ a shank 86 and a wide head 87. Each traveller 36 defines an aperture 88. Strip 84 of an adjacent -traveller 36 extends -through aperture 88. The shank 86 is slidable within aperture 88. The head 87 may be 10 ' inser-ted through aper-ture 88 from one direction, but cannot be removed therefrom in an opposite direction.
In operation, for ease of descrip-tion it is assumed that the vertical blind apparatus 28 commences in -the open position (as shown in Figure 3). In order to close the ver-tical blind apparatus 28, the human operator pulls cord 54. Cord 59 in turn commences to pull cord 56 and lead traveller 36a toward the closed posi-tion. C`ords 54 and 56 move :in opposite directions. Dual pulley arrangemen-t 58 allows cords 54 and 56 to move in opposite directions relative to each other around corner 20 without binding. Cord 54 moves loosely through apertures 74 in lead traveller 36b. Lead -traveller 36b remains in the ~ully open position.
As lead traveller 36a reaches a predetermined spaced apart distance from a subsequent traveller 36, the connector means 82 be-tween such travellers 36a and 36 commences tb pull adjacent traveller 36 toward -the closed position.
As cord 54 is pulled -through aper-tures 74 ~6~ 39 and 77, a point is reached where traveller engagement means 78 passes through the first opening 74 and con-tacts the edge of opening 77. Thereafter, washer 76 is pulled -toward panel 72. Washer 76 -then abuts against panel 72. At this position, lead travellers 36a and 36b both have the same distance to travel in order to reach the fully closed position.
As cord 5~ is pulled further towards -the closed position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b move toward -the closed position. soth travellers 36a and 36b pull by connec-tor means 82 a group or train of travellers 36 therebehind.
At the fully closed posi-tion travellers 36 are spaced apart along the leng-th of tracks 32 and 34 according -to -the lengths of the various connecter means 82. In order to close the slats 33, a ro-tation shaft ~0 is rotated by the suitable ro-tation con-trol means provided (buk no-t shown in de-tail). For example, cord 41 may be pulled to rotate pulley ~3 and to rotate shaf-t 40. As one shaft 40 ro-ta-tes, the flexible coupling means ~4 will also rotate therewitl-, causing -the other shaft 40 to also rotate. In such fashion, the ro-tation of one shaft 40 is -transmitted around corner 20. l'he rotation of shafts 40 causes the rota-tion of slat shafts 37 and slats 38 -to the closed position through the sui-table transmission means (not shown) provided in each traveller 36. I'he vertical blind apparatus 28 according -to the inven-tion is now ;~ in the fully closed position.
In order to open the blinds -the rota-tion --1'1--.~. ~ , ~2~2~
of shafts 40 is reversed.
Subsequently, when the slats 38 are in the open position, cord 56 is now pulled to open the vertical blind appara-tus 28. The pulling of cord 56 causes engagement means 78 to be released from contact with washer 76. Furthermore, ~ecause cord 56 is tied to or .inteyral with cord 5~, lead traveller 36a commences to move toward the open posi-tion. As lead traveller 36a continues to move toward the open position, connector means 82 between traveller 36a and an adjacen-t traveller 36 collapses, or otherwise allows lead traveller 36a to move closer -towards such adjacent traveller 36.
As cord 56 continues to be pulled, engaye-ment means 78 passes outwardly -through opening 7~ in panel 70. Lead traveller 36b, however, remains in -the fully closed posi-tion. Lead -traveller 36a eventually will contact adjacen-t traveller 36, and thereafter will cause both travellers 36a and 36 to move toward the open position.
Eventually, engagement means 80 will pass through opening 7~ in panel 72. Engagemen-t means 80 will con-tinue to be pulled until it contacts washer 76 and thereafter will move washer 76 toward panel 70, until washer 76 abu-ts ayains-t panel 70. At su~h posi-tion, lead traveller 36b will commence movement toward the open position. At such position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b will have to -travel an equal distance to the Eully open position.
As lead traveller 36b continues to move ~.5-~2i~2~9 toward -the open position, a connector means 82 between txaveller 36b and an adjacent traveller 36 will collapse or otherwise allow traveller 36b to move closer -to traveller 36. Even-tually, traveller 36b will. con--tact traveller 36 and thereafter, cord 56 wil~ operate to pu11 both travellers 36b and 36 -toward the open pOSl tlOtl .
In such fashion, all of travellers 36 collapse against each o-ther and the vertical blind appaxatus 28 returns to the fully open position~
It will be appreciated tha-t if the closing direc-tion of -track 34 were-the same as tha-t of track 3~, engagement means 78 and 80 would be a-t-tached to cord 56. Furthermore, cord 56 wo~ld pass through openings 79 in panels 70 and 72 and through opening 77 in washer 76.
Similarly, the traveller engagement means 64l 78 and 80 will be attached to cords 54 ~nd 56 depending on the specific desired ver-tical blind arrangement. By suitably positioning such engagement means 64, 78 and 80 and by providing suitable lead travellers, it is possible to desi.gn any common vertical blind arrangement, such as normal opening, inverted opening, center pull opening, inverted center pull opening, multiple opening and double center pull opening apparatuses as well as other designs.
In further embodiments, a vertical blind appara-tus may include a multiplicity of corners and . tracks of difEerent lengths. In such an apparatus, cord 54 is fixed to a lead traveller having the , . , ~ 8~
longest path length. There may conceivably be more than one lead traveller having the same, bu-t longest, path length. Cord 54 is also fixed to such other lead trave]lers, as well. Pairs of engagement means are attached to either cord 54 or 56, depending on the desirecl direction for opening and closing the vertical blind apparatus, on each side of the other lead travellers, having other shor-ter pa-ths. The distance between the members of each pair of engagement 10 ~ means is equal to the difference in length between such o-ther path and the longest path. The engagement means in each pair is specifically posi-tioned, as described above.
In a further embodiment, if all lead traveller paths have the same leng-th, the cords 54 and 56 are simply fixed -to the lead travellers. They may, for example, be attached by the means shown in Figure ~ or they may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion of the lead traveller.
In a further embodimen-t, a lead traveller may have a design different from other -travellers.
The embodiment of Figures 3 to 5 illustrates lead travellers identical -to other travellers. Such an arrangement is convenient for the manufac-ture of the blind apparatus. However, in certain instances a lead traveller with special different characteristics may be desired.
Figure 6 illustrates one such al-ternate embodiment for a lead traveller 90. Lead traveller " '~ :' - :
.,~ .
~_J ~' `) I
~2 ~ 9 90 defines only one panel 92 which allows cord 5~ to pass therethrough at an opening 94. Engagemen-t means 78 and 80 are unable to pass through opening 94.
~ngagement means 78 and 30 are separa-ted by a distance about equal to ~he di~ference in lengths of the longest traveller path and the path of lead -traveller 90 plus the thickness of panel 92. Lead travelle~ 90 may not include a slat shaft and may not have a slat aEfixed thereto. Furthermore, lead traveller 90 may not have a collapsible connection means connecting it to an adjacent traveller 36. Rather, lead traveller 90 may be rigidly fixed in close proximity to an adjacent traveller 36.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom of -tlle vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously. By using opposed pairs of tracks to support -the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal position or any position there-between.
~L2 E;~9 S11PPLEMEN_RY DISCLOSURE
Ei~ure 7 is a perspective view o~ a further embodiment of sliding clutch; and, Figures 8a and 8b are exploded, and perspective illustrations of a Eur-ther embodiment for joining the tracks at the corner.
According to a further embodiment the use of fixed connectors on beads 64, 78 and 80 may be dispensed with.
Instead, -the cords may be gripped by clutch devices associated with the lead travellers in each group.
These devices provide a form o sliding fric-tional grip on the cord so that the locations of the lead travellers can be self~adjusting.
One form of such a clutch device is shown in Figure 7.
It will be seen to comprise a generally channel-shaped body portion 100 having a back portion 102. Side walls 104, 106 and 108, 110 extend from back portion 102.
A generally rectangular notch is ~ormed between walls 104 and 108, and 106 and 110 respec-tively, for reasons to be described.
An àdjustmen-t screw 112 is mounted in wall 104, and carries a pressure shoe 114. A guide groove 116 is formed in wall 106. Groove 116 and shoe 114 register with one another so as to embrace a cord on opposite sides.
By suitably adJus-ting the screw 112, a pressure can be applied to a cord between shoe 114 and groove 116. This pressure can be regulated so as to produce the desired amount oE friction.
, . , ~ :~L2~2~89 '.~
Other forms of clutch devices can be provided.
For example, a clu-tch device could simply be an opening of a restricted size, in a traveller, or in a device such as a connector bead 64, 78 or 80, or even a washer 76.
All could be made to fit on the cord with a frictional sliding grip.
In opera~ion in this embodimen~, all lead travellers would star-t to move in unison. Ilowever those travellers in small groups would come to rest earlier than those in lar~er groups. ~he clutch devices would then allow the cords to slip so that the longest lead traveller could continue to move.
The clu-tch 100 is so designed that it can be used with various different makes of traveller. With one make of traveller, the notch 111 can receive the lead traveller wi-thin it. In this way, m~vement of the cord in either direction will cause the lead traveller to move.
The clutch 100 can be associated in other ways with other forms of travellers which are now in use, and which form no part of this disclosure being in any event well-known in the art.
In a Eurther embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided a-t the bottom of the vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously, By usin~ opposed pairs of tracks to support the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal position or any position therebetweenO
, . ' .
~L2~i21~ `3 ~ 1 In accordance with a further embodiment the corners of the tracks may be joined, by means of the corner insert member illustrated generally in Figures '~a and 8b.
I'he corner insert member is indicated generally as 130, and comprises right and left hand body members 132 and 134 hinged together by pins 136.
The body member'132 will be seen to comprise upper and lower hinge walls 138, 140, in spaced apart parallel planes, and joined by a junction wall 142.
Walls 138 and 140 define hinge holes 144 to receive pins 136.
At the opposite'ends of walls 138, 140, upper and lower track connector walls 146 and 148 extend outwardly. Walls 146-148 are located in parallel spaced apart planes, being offset inwardly with respec-t to the planes of walls 138-140 for reasons to be described. A side junction wall 150 extends between walls 146-148, which lies in a plane o~fset inwardly with respect -to junction wall 142 of body 132.
~n end wall 152 extends between the ends of walls 146, 148 and 150.
A cord guide open,ing 154 is formed in wall 152, and a rod,guide'opening 156 is also formed in wall 152.
A pair of locating Elngers 158 extend from opposite sides of wall 152.
Body 134 defines the same components, and these are therefore given the same numbers as in -the case of body 13Z. The only exception is that the walls 138-140 are formed so as to interfit with one i. ,; ~ -21-~26;2~ (J
another in the two bodies 132-134, whereb~ ~o overlap and permi-t the pins 136 to pass through openin~s 144.
In order to guide the cords, around the corner, a corner guide frame 160 (Figure 8b~ is provided, having two fastening flanges 162, extendiny at an obtuse angle.
Pulleys 164 are mounted on a common shaf-t 166 within Erame 160.
In operation, where it is desired to join two pieces of track at a corner, the ends of the two pieces of track are cut square~ and the two pieces of track are then slid onto the walls 146, 148, 150 on each of bodies 132 and 134.
The locating;fingers 158 fit within portions of the track.
The walls 138, 140 wilL then be left extending out of the two ends of the track.
The two portions of track are then swung about the pins 136 until the correct angle is located.
The frame 160 is then introduced into position, and the two flanges 162 are secured permanently to the bodies 132, 134 by means of screws (not shown) or other suitable fastening means.
The control cords and the control shaft and its flexible junction member are then introduced through the openings in the end walls 152, and are assemhled together, with the control cords running around the pulleys 164.
If desired, a corner trim plate (not shown) may be attached between the two portions o~ track to cover the corner member 130 if desired.
. . !~ ,.~ ) ~L: 26~2~9&~
It will o;E course be appreciated tha-t while -the corner junction member 130 is indicated as two separate parts hinged toye-ther by means of a pin, in accordance with well-known plastic forming techniques r plastic structures can be formed of~what is known as a "self-hinye" being a flexible por-tion of a plastic formed integrally with the plastic structure by means of which two portions may be hinged or swung relative to one another.
Clearly, such a well-known forming -technique could be used in the present case, with only minor modifications.
. ... _............................................................. . ... !, The foregoing is a description o a preferred embodiment of the inven-tion which is given here by way - oE example only. The invention is not to be taken as ¦ described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come wi-thin the scope of -the appended claims.
..
The invention relates to an apparatus for operating blinds, and in particular, the invention relates to an apparatus for operating vertical blinds around a corner.
BACKGROUND OF T~l~ INVENTI_ Vertical blinds are well known for use in homes and in o~fices. Such blinds yenerally comprise a plurality of even]y spaced vertical sla-ts, downwardly depending from travellers held in a horizontal -track.
The track is aEfixed to -the ceiling or upper casement of a window. Each slat is rotatably attached to a single traveller which i5 slidable within the track.
Commonly, a horizon-tal shaft connects all the travellers.
Rotation of the shaft causes, through a suitable means (such as a worm gear) in each traveller,t~le slats to rotate in unison. Each traveller is connected to one adjacent traveller by suitable connection means whereby, in one direction each traveller can be moved to contact another traveller and in an opposite direc-tion each traveller is spaced apart Erom an adjacen-t traveller ~y a predetermined amount. Sui-table control means (such as cords, chains, or shaEts) are provided whereby the travellers can be moved longitudinally alon~ -the tracJc and whereby the shaft can be rotated to cause rotation of the vert:ical slats. Generally, such control means are located at one end of the vertical blind apparatus.
In existing vertlcal blind appara-tuses the horizontal track is straight. In order to have vertical blinds on both sides of a corner, for instance in a ~262~1~9 bay window or in a room having glass sides joining a-t corners, it is necessary -to have a separate vertical blind arrangement along each window. Each vertical blind unit mus-t be operated individually, independen-tly oE the other vertical blind arrangements. Each ver-tical blind arrangement re~uires its own control cords or shafts.
These requirements add inconvenience and added expense to the vertical blind system. ~s well, the addltional control cords or shafts detract from the aesthetic appearance of the window.
It would thereEore be advantageous -to provide a vertical blind apparatus which could be operable around corners and which would require only a single control cord or shaf-t. Furthermore, it would be also advantageous if such an appara-tus could be devised to opera;te around a mul-tiplicity of corners along different lengths of window. Furthermore~ in certain applications it would also be advantageous if the blind apparatus could be oriented in any posi-tion including vertically, horizontally or in any other position.
ST~TEMENT OF TIIE INVENTION
With a view to overcoming the above disadvan-tages and to providing the above advantages, the invention comprises a blind apparatus comprising at least two -tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebe-tween, the tracks defining -two opposite ends remo-te from such corner, a rotation shaft longitudinally located rela-tive to each track, support means affixed to each track ~or supporting the rotation ~2~ 9 shaft, a-t least one lead traveller slidably received within each -track, each lead traveller being const~ained to move along a lead -traveller path of pre-determined length from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end oE the path, a plurallty of travellers,forming a group, associated with each lead traveller, -the travellers bein~ slidably received within a track, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable t.ransmission means to one of therotation shafts whereby upon ro-tation of the ro-ta-tion shaft, -the sla-t shaEt may be rotated, adjacent travellers in -the same group being connected by a connec-tion means, each lead -traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means, longitudinal control means at-tachable to the lead -travellers, rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rota-tion shafts at the corner.
The invention achieves the above advantages by providing a rotation shaft wi-thin the track along -the top of each window. Each shaft is connected -to an adjacent shaft around a corner by a sui-table Iniversal flexible coupling means, whereby ro-tation of one shaft will induce rotation in -the other shaft. Furthermore, a lead -traveller wi-th -the longest lead traveller path is fixed -to a control cord. The control corcl is also provided with pairs of traveller engagement means, one such pair being associated with -the o-ther lead travellers.
The me~ers of the pairs of traveller engagement means ... . . . ..
.
6~9 are spaced apart from each o-ther on each side o-E the lead traveller. The spacing between -the members of each pair is such -that all travellers in the vertical blind apparatus will reach the fully opened or -the fully clo~e~l po~iti~n at th~ s~me time.
The various features of novel-ty which characterize the invention are poin-ted ou-t with particulari-ty in the claims annexed to and Eorming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be had to the accompanying drawings and descrip-tive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodimen-ts of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bay window having a vertical blind apparatus accordincJ
to the invention;
Figure 2 is an expanded perspec-tive view, partly cut-away, illustrating one embodiment oE a vertical blind appara-tus a-t a corner, according to the invention;
Figure 3 is a schematic bottom plan view of a vertical blind apparatus according to the inven--tion, illustrating longikuclinal control means;
Figure ~ is a perspective view of a lead traveller as it may be incorporated into one embodiment of the invention;
~igure S is a perspective view oE a second lead traveller as it may be incorporated in-to one ~6~a~
embodiment of the invention, and, Figure 6 is a perspec-tive view of an alternate lead -traveller as it may be incorporated into a further embodiment of the invention.
_ETAILED DFSCRIPTION OF A SPECIFIC EMsoDIMENT
~ eferr:ing to Figure 1, there is illustrated a bay window indicated generally as 10. say window 10 comprises three sides - namely, left side 12, front side 14, and right side 16. Left side 12 is joined to front side 14 a-t corner 18. Similarly, front side 14 and right side 16 are joined at another corner 20. The sides 12, 14 and 16 may each define different lengths. As well, corners 18 and 20 may define different angles. The left side 12 of win~ow 10 includes an upper casement 22. Similarly, sides 14 and 16 include upper casements 24 and 26 respectively.
vertical blind apparatus, according to the invention, indicated generally as 28, is affixed to and depends downwardly from upper casements 22, 24 and 26.
Vertical blind appara-tus 28 comprises hori-zontal tracks 30, 32 and 34 affixed respec-tively -to upper casements 22, 24 and 26 and mitered together at corners 18 and 20. Slidably held within tracks 30, 32 and 34 are a plurality of travellers 36 (see Figure 2). Rotatably attached to each traveller 36 is a downwardly depending slat 38. Slat 38 generally com-prises an opaque materiaI, so tha-t when the vertical blind appara-tus 28 is in a closed position light is ~ prevented from entering bay window 10.
; 30 Travellers 36 slidably support slats 38.
~2~g Furthermore, travellers 36 are in-terconnected by suitable connection means, as discussed below, Eor longitudinally moving the travellers 36.
For convenient operation, free ends 54a and 56a of longitudinal control cords 54 and 56 depend from one end of track 34 at one end of vertical blind appara-tus 28. A suitable pulley (not shown) may be provided a-t such end -to allow for smooth movement of cords 54 and 56. Cords 54 and 56 are connected, as disclosed herein, -to a lead -traveller (as, for example, lead traveller 36a or 36b in Figure 3) in each track 30, 32 and 34. At an opposite end of vertical blind apparatus 28, cords 54 and 56 are joined together and, irl fact, may be integral with each o-ther. A suitable pulley (no-t shown) may be provided at such opposite end to allow for smooth movemen-t of cords 54 and 56. The Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 54 and 56, ;^espectively, may be tied or otherwise connected together and, in fact, may be integral with each other.
Cords 54 and 56 may be pulled to rnove -travellers 36 longitudinally within tracks 30, 32 and 34. Such lonyitudinal movemen-t causes slats 38 to be drawn sideways between open and closed positions, as well as throu~h intermediate positions ~herebetween~
In order to rotate sla-ts 38, travellers 36 are each connec-ted to a-rota-tion shaft 40 (see Figure 2), as described below. In order -to rotate shaft 40 a sui-table rotation control means, such as cord 41, is provided. Cord ~1 depends from shaft 40, preferably ~L2~i2~g at -the same end of traclc 34 as free ends 54a and 56a of cords 5~ ancl 56. Sui-table me~ns (such as a pulley 43) is provided whereby movement of cord 41 will rotate shaft 40. It will be appreciated that other control means, such as chains, shafts or -the like, may be used.
Rotation transmission means, typically worm gears (not shown), are incorporated in each traveller 36, and connected between -the ro-tation shaft 40 and respective sla-ts 3~. Ro-tation of such worm year rota-tes the slats 38.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are movable along lead traveller paths 35 and 33, respectively (indicated in phantom in FicJure 3). Paths 35 and 33 have pre determined pa-th lengths. In the illustrated embodiment, such path lengths correspond generally to -the length of the tracks 32 and 3~ (with an allowance for the : length of the collapsed travellers 36 in the open posi-tion). However, the path lengths could be re-s-tricted to any frac-tion of the len~ths of the tracks 32 and 34. Such restriction may be necessary, for example, in -the situation where more -than one lead -traveller is provided in the same -track (as in the case o e a cen-tre pull opening or multiple opening vertical blind apparatus).
~11 oE -the above described Eeatures are well known in the art. I-t is not in-tended to restrict the scope of the invention to the particular window arrangement or track arran~ement illustra-ted. ~a-ther i-t is th~ intention that the scope of the i.nvention , ~21~2~
cover any application of a vertical blind apparatus de~ining regular or rounded corners. Similarly, it is not intenaed -to re~tric-t the scope of the invention to the particular track and traveller assemblies disclosed. Rather, it is -the in-tention that the scope of -the invention include any track design and traveller design.
~ eEerring to Figure 2, -there are illustrated tracks 32 and 34 meetiny at a corner,indicated generally as 20. Figure 2 provides an expanded view of corner 20 for ease of understanding. Tracks 32 and 3~ are affixed by any suitable means -to upper casements 24 and 26, respectively (see Figure 1). Travellers 36 are slidably held within tracks 32 and 34. Each traveller 36 includes a rotatable slat shaf-t 37. A sla-t 38 is affixed to each slat shaft 37.
A rotation shaft 40 extends along the length of each track 32 and 3~ from one end to the other.
Shaft 40 is rotatably supported by a suitable support meansl such as bearing blocks ~2 affixed at each end of -tracks 32 and 34. Bearing block 42 defines a sui-table hole allowing shaft ~0 to extend there -through. Similarly, each traveller 36 defines a sui-table opening allowing shaft 40 to pass therethrough.
A suitable gear or other transmission means (not shown) is included in each travel:er 36 and is ada~-ted to cooperate with shat ~0, whereby rotation of shaft ~0 will induce each sla-t shaft 37 to rotate. I~otation of slat shaf-ts 37 in unison will cause sla-ts 38 to either open or close, as desired. In order -to rotate ~26~
shaft 40, a suitable pulley ~3, or other means, may be attached at one end of shaf-t 40 and may be operable by a suitable cord, chain or other means (see cord 41 in Figure l).
Adjacent shafts 40 are connec-ted together at corner 20 by flexible coupling means ~4. The bearing blocks 42 are arranged at either end of the flexible coupling means 44 -to locate -the ends of the shafts 40 adjacent the flexible coupling means ~4. In the illustra-ted embodiment, flexible coupling means ~4 comprises a cylindrical helical spring 46 affixed to collars 48 at each end. Collars 48 in turn are affixed by sui-table means, such as se-t screw 50, to each shaft - 40. For protection and Eor ease of rotation, washers 52 may be inserted in place between collars 48 and bearing blocks 42. Each collar ~8 de~ines a boss 48a extending therefrom in order to assist in affixing spring 46 to collars 48. The spring q6 may be wrapped around and afEixed to the bosses 48a by suitable means.
O-ther Elexible coupling means may be used.
For example,a spring, a universal joint, or a series of universal joints, a 1exible hose (such as a rubber hose) or a ~lexible cable (such as is used in a speedometer cable) may be used.
As described below, cords 54 and 56 are used to move travellers 36 longi-tudinally within tracks 32 and 34 in order to open and close -the vertical blind apparatus 28. In order -to allow ~ords 54 and 56 to pass without restriction around corner 20, a dual pulley arrange-ment 58 is affixed between -tracks 3~ and 32 at corner `, 2~. Dual pulley 58 includes two pulley wheels 58a, rotatable in opposite directions. Cord 54 lies within the groove oE one such pulley wheel 58a and Cord 56 lies within the groove of -the other pulley wheel 58a.
In other emb~diments it may not be necessary to use a clual pulley 58. For instance, a smooth rouncled plate, effectively rounding off corner 20 or a bent hollow tube may be found suitable. I-lowever, it has been ~ound that upon occasion such pla-tes or tubes may cause cords 54 and 56 -to bind together, thereby interfering with -the smooth functioning oE -the vertical blind apparatus. I-t has been ~ound that the dual pulley arrangement is preferable~
Referring to Figure 3, a schematic plan view of tracks 32 and 34 meeting at corner 20 is pro-vided. The ou-tline of tracks 32 and 39 is shown in phantom. ~ravellers 36 are constrained -to move within tracks 32 and 34. Lead traveller path 35 in track 34 is somewhat longer than lead traveller path 33 in track 32. The vertical blind apparatus 28 o~ Figure 3 is shown in the open position.
In order to allow the vertical blind apparatus 28 to open and close evenl~, even -though paths 33 and 35 are o~ different lengths, cords 5q and 56 are pro-vided. Cords 5~ and 56 are in-tegral wi-th each other, or tied together,a-t one ènd. A-t the other end the free ends 54a and 56a oE cords 54 and 56 depend downwardly.
A human operator rnay open and close the blinds by pulling on the Eree ends 54a and 56a of cords 5~ and 56.
Cord 56 is attached -to c lead -traveller 36a having the lor;gest path, in -tnis qase path 35. Cord 5LI is attachable, as described below, to a lead -traveller 36b in pa-th 33, the shorter pa-th.
ReEerring -to Fig~lre ~, lead -traveller 36a is illustrated. One means of at~aching cord 56 -to traveller 36a is to a-ttach traveller engagement means 6~ to cord 56 between two panels 66 and 68 of traveller 36a. Panels 66 and 68 de~ine sui-table openings allow-ing cord 56 to pass therethrough. When cord 56 is pulled in one direction or the other, engagement means 6~ will engage and abut agains-t ei-ther panel 66 or panel 68, thereby causing lead traveller 36a to move.
Engagemen-t means 64 may comprise a spherical ball which is crimped abou-t cord 56. Other means oE attaching cord 56 to traveller 36a may be used. For e~ample, cord 56 may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion o~ traveller 36a.
Re~erring -to Figllre 5, lead traveller 36b is shown. Traveller 36b may include panels 70 and 72, each panel 70 and 72 defining an opening 7~ therein. Cord 5~ passes through openings 7~.
~etween panels 70 ancl 7~ a washer 76 is loosely suspended around cord 5~ The oucer diameter of washer 76 is su~icient.y large -that washer 76 canno-t pass through openings 7LI. Wi-th -the ver-tical blind apparatus 28 in the ~ul~y open position and cord 5~ being pulled taut anc aLout -t~ commence closing vertical blind apparatu~ 2l~, ~raveller engagement means B~ is afflxed t'~ c~i^d S~ ad~aceni: panel 72.
a~
Similarly, en~agemen-t means 78 is affixed to cord 56, but is spaced apart from engagement means 80 by an amount abou-t equal to the difference in length be-tween paths 35 and 33. Enga~ement means 78 and 80 may comprise spherical balls or beads which are crimped about cord 5~. The diameters of en~a~ement means 78 and 80 are sufficiently small to pass -through openings 74 in panels 72 and 70, but are also sufficiently large that they may not pass thro~lgh a central aperture 77 of washer 76.
Cords 5~ and 56 are only a-ttached or attachable to -the lead travellers 36a and 36b.
Cords 54 and 56 pass around or through -Lhe other travellers 36 (ac suitable openings provided therein) and are not attached or at-tachable -thereto.
Lead travellers 36a and 36b are each connec-ted to an adjacent traveller 36 (which in turn is connected to a train o~ subsequent slider blDcks 36) by suitable connector means 82.
Connector means 82 is operable whereby when leacl traveller 36a or 36b is moved a predetermined distance in the closin~ direc~ion, such traveller 36a or 36b will commence pulling the subsequent traveller 36. When the lead traveller 36a or 36b :is moved in an openin~ direc-tion, the connecto~ means 82 is operable to allow ~:he lead traveller 36a or 36b to approach ancl abut~a~ains-t an adjacent traveller 36. Thereaft~r further movemerlt of :lead -travel:Ler 36a or 36b will also cause travellers 36 -to move as well. Subsequent 2~
~o travellers 36 are either opened or closed ln corres-ponding fashion by in-terconnecting connector means 82 linking adjacent -travellers 36.
In the illustrated embodiments, connector means 82 comprises a sti~f strip 84 havin~ a shank 86 and a wide head 87. Each traveller 36 defines an aperture 88. Strip 84 of an adjacent -traveller 36 extends -through aperture 88. The shank 86 is slidable within aperture 88. The head 87 may be 10 ' inser-ted through aper-ture 88 from one direction, but cannot be removed therefrom in an opposite direction.
In operation, for ease of descrip-tion it is assumed that the vertical blind apparatus 28 commences in -the open position (as shown in Figure 3). In order to close the ver-tical blind apparatus 28, the human operator pulls cord 54. Cord 59 in turn commences to pull cord 56 and lead traveller 36a toward the closed posi-tion. C`ords 54 and 56 move :in opposite directions. Dual pulley arrangemen-t 58 allows cords 54 and 56 to move in opposite directions relative to each other around corner 20 without binding. Cord 54 moves loosely through apertures 74 in lead traveller 36b. Lead -traveller 36b remains in the ~ully open position.
As lead traveller 36a reaches a predetermined spaced apart distance from a subsequent traveller 36, the connector means 82 be-tween such travellers 36a and 36 commences tb pull adjacent traveller 36 toward -the closed position.
As cord 54 is pulled -through aper-tures 74 ~6~ 39 and 77, a point is reached where traveller engagement means 78 passes through the first opening 74 and con-tacts the edge of opening 77. Thereafter, washer 76 is pulled -toward panel 72. Washer 76 -then abuts against panel 72. At this position, lead travellers 36a and 36b both have the same distance to travel in order to reach the fully closed position.
As cord 5~ is pulled further towards -the closed position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b move toward -the closed position. soth travellers 36a and 36b pull by connec-tor means 82 a group or train of travellers 36 therebehind.
At the fully closed posi-tion travellers 36 are spaced apart along the leng-th of tracks 32 and 34 according -to -the lengths of the various connecter means 82. In order to close the slats 33, a ro-tation shaft ~0 is rotated by the suitable ro-tation con-trol means provided (buk no-t shown in de-tail). For example, cord 41 may be pulled to rotate pulley ~3 and to rotate shaf-t 40. As one shaft 40 ro-ta-tes, the flexible coupling means ~4 will also rotate therewitl-, causing -the other shaft 40 to also rotate. In such fashion, the ro-tation of one shaft 40 is -transmitted around corner 20. l'he rotation of shafts 40 causes the rota-tion of slat shafts 37 and slats 38 -to the closed position through the sui-table transmission means (not shown) provided in each traveller 36. I'he vertical blind apparatus 28 according -to the inven-tion is now ;~ in the fully closed position.
In order to open the blinds -the rota-tion --1'1--.~. ~ , ~2~2~
of shafts 40 is reversed.
Subsequently, when the slats 38 are in the open position, cord 56 is now pulled to open the vertical blind appara-tus 28. The pulling of cord 56 causes engagement means 78 to be released from contact with washer 76. Furthermore, ~ecause cord 56 is tied to or .inteyral with cord 5~, lead traveller 36a commences to move toward the open posi-tion. As lead traveller 36a continues to move toward the open position, connector means 82 between traveller 36a and an adjacen-t traveller 36 collapses, or otherwise allows lead traveller 36a to move closer -towards such adjacent traveller 36.
As cord 56 continues to be pulled, engaye-ment means 78 passes outwardly -through opening 7~ in panel 70. Lead traveller 36b, however, remains in -the fully closed posi-tion. Lead -traveller 36a eventually will contact adjacen-t traveller 36, and thereafter will cause both travellers 36a and 36 to move toward the open position.
Eventually, engagement means 80 will pass through opening 7~ in panel 72. Engagemen-t means 80 will con-tinue to be pulled until it contacts washer 76 and thereafter will move washer 76 toward panel 70, until washer 76 abu-ts ayains-t panel 70. At su~h posi-tion, lead traveller 36b will commence movement toward the open position. At such position, both lead travellers 36a and 36b will have to -travel an equal distance to the Eully open position.
As lead traveller 36b continues to move ~.5-~2i~2~9 toward -the open position, a connector means 82 between txaveller 36b and an adjacent traveller 36 will collapse or otherwise allow traveller 36b to move closer -to traveller 36. Even-tually, traveller 36b will. con--tact traveller 36 and thereafter, cord 56 wil~ operate to pu11 both travellers 36b and 36 -toward the open pOSl tlOtl .
In such fashion, all of travellers 36 collapse against each o-ther and the vertical blind appaxatus 28 returns to the fully open position~
It will be appreciated tha-t if the closing direc-tion of -track 34 were-the same as tha-t of track 3~, engagement means 78 and 80 would be a-t-tached to cord 56. Furthermore, cord 56 wo~ld pass through openings 79 in panels 70 and 72 and through opening 77 in washer 76.
Similarly, the traveller engagement means 64l 78 and 80 will be attached to cords 54 ~nd 56 depending on the specific desired ver-tical blind arrangement. By suitably positioning such engagement means 64, 78 and 80 and by providing suitable lead travellers, it is possible to desi.gn any common vertical blind arrangement, such as normal opening, inverted opening, center pull opening, inverted center pull opening, multiple opening and double center pull opening apparatuses as well as other designs.
In further embodiments, a vertical blind appara-tus may include a multiplicity of corners and . tracks of difEerent lengths. In such an apparatus, cord 54 is fixed to a lead traveller having the , . , ~ 8~
longest path length. There may conceivably be more than one lead traveller having the same, bu-t longest, path length. Cord 54 is also fixed to such other lead trave]lers, as well. Pairs of engagement means are attached to either cord 54 or 56, depending on the desirecl direction for opening and closing the vertical blind apparatus, on each side of the other lead travellers, having other shor-ter pa-ths. The distance between the members of each pair of engagement 10 ~ means is equal to the difference in length between such o-ther path and the longest path. The engagement means in each pair is specifically posi-tioned, as described above.
In a further embodiment, if all lead traveller paths have the same leng-th, the cords 54 and 56 are simply fixed -to the lead travellers. They may, for example, be attached by the means shown in Figure ~ or they may simply be tied to or wrapped around a portion of the lead traveller.
In a further embodimen-t, a lead traveller may have a design different from other -travellers.
The embodiment of Figures 3 to 5 illustrates lead travellers identical -to other travellers. Such an arrangement is convenient for the manufac-ture of the blind apparatus. However, in certain instances a lead traveller with special different characteristics may be desired.
Figure 6 illustrates one such al-ternate embodiment for a lead traveller 90. Lead traveller " '~ :' - :
.,~ .
~_J ~' `) I
~2 ~ 9 90 defines only one panel 92 which allows cord 5~ to pass therethrough at an opening 94. Engagemen-t means 78 and 80 are unable to pass through opening 94.
~ngagement means 78 and 30 are separa-ted by a distance about equal to ~he di~ference in lengths of the longest traveller path and the path of lead -traveller 90 plus the thickness of panel 92. Lead travelle~ 90 may not include a slat shaft and may not have a slat aEfixed thereto. Furthermore, lead traveller 90 may not have a collapsible connection means connecting it to an adjacent traveller 36. Rather, lead traveller 90 may be rigidly fixed in close proximity to an adjacent traveller 36.
In a further embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided at the bottom of -tlle vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously. By using opposed pairs of tracks to support -the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal position or any position there-between.
~L2 E;~9 S11PPLEMEN_RY DISCLOSURE
Ei~ure 7 is a perspective view o~ a further embodiment of sliding clutch; and, Figures 8a and 8b are exploded, and perspective illustrations of a Eur-ther embodiment for joining the tracks at the corner.
According to a further embodiment the use of fixed connectors on beads 64, 78 and 80 may be dispensed with.
Instead, -the cords may be gripped by clutch devices associated with the lead travellers in each group.
These devices provide a form o sliding fric-tional grip on the cord so that the locations of the lead travellers can be self~adjusting.
One form of such a clutch device is shown in Figure 7.
It will be seen to comprise a generally channel-shaped body portion 100 having a back portion 102. Side walls 104, 106 and 108, 110 extend from back portion 102.
A generally rectangular notch is ~ormed between walls 104 and 108, and 106 and 110 respec-tively, for reasons to be described.
An àdjustmen-t screw 112 is mounted in wall 104, and carries a pressure shoe 114. A guide groove 116 is formed in wall 106. Groove 116 and shoe 114 register with one another so as to embrace a cord on opposite sides.
By suitably adJus-ting the screw 112, a pressure can be applied to a cord between shoe 114 and groove 116. This pressure can be regulated so as to produce the desired amount oE friction.
, . , ~ :~L2~2~89 '.~
Other forms of clutch devices can be provided.
For example, a clu-tch device could simply be an opening of a restricted size, in a traveller, or in a device such as a connector bead 64, 78 or 80, or even a washer 76.
All could be made to fit on the cord with a frictional sliding grip.
In opera~ion in this embodimen~, all lead travellers would star-t to move in unison. Ilowever those travellers in small groups would come to rest earlier than those in lar~er groups. ~he clutch devices would then allow the cords to slip so that the longest lead traveller could continue to move.
The clu-tch 100 is so designed that it can be used with various different makes of traveller. With one make of traveller, the notch 111 can receive the lead traveller wi-thin it. In this way, m~vement of the cord in either direction will cause the lead traveller to move.
The clutch 100 can be associated in other ways with other forms of travellers which are now in use, and which form no part of this disclosure being in any event well-known in the art.
In a Eurther embodiment, an additional horizontal track may be provided a-t the bottom of the vertical blind apparatus. Control cords may be provided to operate travellers in both upper and lower tracks simultaneously, By usin~ opposed pairs of tracks to support the slats, the blind apparatus may be supported in any position, including a vertical position, a horizontal position or any position therebetweenO
, . ' .
~L2~i21~ `3 ~ 1 In accordance with a further embodiment the corners of the tracks may be joined, by means of the corner insert member illustrated generally in Figures '~a and 8b.
I'he corner insert member is indicated generally as 130, and comprises right and left hand body members 132 and 134 hinged together by pins 136.
The body member'132 will be seen to comprise upper and lower hinge walls 138, 140, in spaced apart parallel planes, and joined by a junction wall 142.
Walls 138 and 140 define hinge holes 144 to receive pins 136.
At the opposite'ends of walls 138, 140, upper and lower track connector walls 146 and 148 extend outwardly. Walls 146-148 are located in parallel spaced apart planes, being offset inwardly with respec-t to the planes of walls 138-140 for reasons to be described. A side junction wall 150 extends between walls 146-148, which lies in a plane o~fset inwardly with respect -to junction wall 142 of body 132.
~n end wall 152 extends between the ends of walls 146, 148 and 150.
A cord guide open,ing 154 is formed in wall 152, and a rod,guide'opening 156 is also formed in wall 152.
A pair of locating Elngers 158 extend from opposite sides of wall 152.
Body 134 defines the same components, and these are therefore given the same numbers as in -the case of body 13Z. The only exception is that the walls 138-140 are formed so as to interfit with one i. ,; ~ -21-~26;2~ (J
another in the two bodies 132-134, whereb~ ~o overlap and permi-t the pins 136 to pass through openin~s 144.
In order to guide the cords, around the corner, a corner guide frame 160 (Figure 8b~ is provided, having two fastening flanges 162, extendiny at an obtuse angle.
Pulleys 164 are mounted on a common shaf-t 166 within Erame 160.
In operation, where it is desired to join two pieces of track at a corner, the ends of the two pieces of track are cut square~ and the two pieces of track are then slid onto the walls 146, 148, 150 on each of bodies 132 and 134.
The locating;fingers 158 fit within portions of the track.
The walls 138, 140 wilL then be left extending out of the two ends of the track.
The two portions of track are then swung about the pins 136 until the correct angle is located.
The frame 160 is then introduced into position, and the two flanges 162 are secured permanently to the bodies 132, 134 by means of screws (not shown) or other suitable fastening means.
The control cords and the control shaft and its flexible junction member are then introduced through the openings in the end walls 152, and are assemhled together, with the control cords running around the pulleys 164.
If desired, a corner trim plate (not shown) may be attached between the two portions o~ track to cover the corner member 130 if desired.
. . !~ ,.~ ) ~L: 26~2~9&~
It will o;E course be appreciated tha-t while -the corner junction member 130 is indicated as two separate parts hinged toye-ther by means of a pin, in accordance with well-known plastic forming techniques r plastic structures can be formed of~what is known as a "self-hinye" being a flexible por-tion of a plastic formed integrally with the plastic structure by means of which two portions may be hinged or swung relative to one another.
Clearly, such a well-known forming -technique could be used in the present case, with only minor modifications.
. ... _............................................................. . ... !, The foregoing is a description o a preferred embodiment of the inven-tion which is given here by way - oE example only. The invention is not to be taken as ¦ described, but comprehends all such variations thereof as come wi-thin the scope of -the appended claims.
..
Claims (26)
1. A blind apparatus comprising:
at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner;
a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, and support means for supporting the rotation shaft;
at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of predetermined length within its respective track from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path;
a plurality of travellers, forming at least two groups, a said group being associated with a respective said lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received on respective tracks, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means;
longitudinal control means in each said track engageable with said lead travellers and means connecting said control means around said corner for operation of said control means in unison and being operable to move all said lead travellers simultaneously along said tracks between open and closed positions;
operating moans for said longitudinal control means connected to said longitudinal control means and being located adjacent one end of one said track whereby all said lead travellers may be operated simultaneously by said operating means;
rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
at least two tracks having adjacent ends meeting at a corner defined therebetween, the tracks defining two opposite ends remote from such corner;
a rotation shaft longitudinally located relative to each track, and support means for supporting the rotation shaft;
at least one lead traveller slidably received within each track, each lead traveller being constrained to move along a lead traveller path of predetermined length within its respective track from an open position at one end of the path to a closed position at the other end of the path;
a plurality of travellers, forming at least two groups, a said group being associated with a respective said lead traveller, the travellers being slidably received on respective tracks, each traveller having a rotatable slat shaft, each traveller being connected by suitable transmission means to one of the rotation shafts whereby upon rotation of the rotation shaft, the slat shaft may be rotated, adjacent travellers in the same group being connected by a connection means, each lead traveller being connected to an adjacent traveller in its respective group by a further connection means;
longitudinal control means in each said track engageable with said lead travellers and means connecting said control means around said corner for operation of said control means in unison and being operable to move all said lead travellers simultaneously along said tracks between open and closed positions;
operating moans for said longitudinal control means connected to said longitudinal control means and being located adjacent one end of one said track whereby all said lead travellers may be operated simultaneously by said operating means;
rotation control means attached to a rotation shaft, and, flexible coupling means connecting adjacent rotation shafts at the corner.
2. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said flexible coupling means comprises:
a helical spring, and, collar means attached to each end of the spring, each collar means being affixed to a shaft.
a helical spring, and, collar means attached to each end of the spring, each collar means being affixed to a shaft.
3. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein at least one first lead traveller is constrained to move along a lead traveller path of a first predetermined length and at least one other lead traveller is constrained to move along a lead traveller path of a second predetermined length less than said first length, and movable connection means connecting said longitudinal control means to said at least one other lead traveller.
4. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 3 wherein said longitudinal control means comprises pull cords connectable to the lead travellers, the pull cords being connected to each other at one end of the tracks.
5. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 4 wherein a dual pulley means is provided at the corner, whereby the pull cords may be supported.
6. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 5 wherein a pulley is provided at the said one end of the tracks to receive the pull cords.
7. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 3 wherein a first pull cord is attached by an attachment means to said at least one first lead traveller, and wherein pairs of lead traveller engagement means are attached to a pull cord adjacent each said other lead traveller, the members of each pair of engagement means being spaced apart by an amount about equal to the difference in lengths between said first lead traveller path and the respective said other lead traveller paths, whereby when the lead travellers are at the open position, one member of each pair of engagement means is adjacent its respective lead traveller on a side disposed toward the closed position.
8. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 wherein each lead traveller engagement means comprises a first bead affixed to a pull cord and wherein each lead traveller defines two parallel spaced apart panels defining first openings therethrough, the said pull cord extending through the first openings, the openings having sufficient width to admit the first beads therethrough, and a washer, having a central aperture through which the said pull cord extends, the washer being supported by the said pull cord between the panels, the central aperture having insufficient width to allow the first beads to pass therethrough.
9. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the attachment means comprises a second bead affixed to the first pull cord, the bead having a width greater than that of the openings in the panels.
10. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein the attachment means comprises at least one loop of the first pull cord about a portion of the respective lead traveller.
11. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a helical spring.
12. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said flexible coupling means comprises a flexible tube.
13. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a flexible cable.
14. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said coupling means comprises a flexible shaft.
15. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein a downwardly depending slat is attached to each slat shaft.
16. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 8 wherein a downwardly depending slat is attached to each slat shaft.
CLAIMS SUPPORTED BY THE
SUPPLEMENTARY DISCLOSURE
CLAIMS SUPPORTED BY THE
SUPPLEMENTARY DISCLOSURE
17. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 including a corner junction member, adapted to form a corner between adjacent ends of two tracks, said corner junction member comprising connector portions adapted to be connected to adjacent ends of each said track, and hinge means joining said connector portions, whereby said two tracks can be adjusted to various angles.
18. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 wherein said two connector portions in said hinge means are formed as a unitary integral structure.
19. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 including bearing means in said connector portions for receiving ends of said shafts.
20. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 wherein said corner junction member includes attachment tongues interengageable with each of said tracks, for retaining same in position.
21. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 including low friction guide means, for guiding said longitudinal control means therethrough.
22. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 including lead traveller engagement means slidable relative to said longitudinal control means.
23. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 2 wherein said lead traveller engagement means comprises a stop member, and frictional gripping means in said stop member, adapted to make a sliding frictional grip on said longitudinal control means, whereby said stop member may engage said lead travellers and move them a predetermined distance and thereafter when said lead traveller is at rest, said longitudinal control means will slide through said stop member.
24. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 17 in which said longitudinal control means comprise flexible elements engageable with said lead travellers and its which said corner junction member includes guide means whereby said flexible elements may be supported at said corner.
25. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 24 and in which said guide means comprise a pair of guide pulleys.
26. A blind apparatus as claimed in Claim 24 and in which said connector portions comprise first and second inserts adapted to be inserted into respective ones of said adjacent ends of said tracks.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA574,914A CA1262089B (en) | 1988-08-16 | 1988-08-16 | Track for blinds |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA574,914A CA1262089B (en) | 1988-08-16 | 1988-08-16 | Track for blinds |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1262089B true CA1262089B (en) | 1989-10-03 |
Family
ID=4138565
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA574,914A Expired CA1262089B (en) | 1988-08-16 | 1988-08-16 | Track for blinds |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1262089B (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7278345B2 (en) | 2003-07-01 | 2007-10-09 | Springs Window Fashions, Llc | Blind trimming apparatus |
-
1988
- 1988-08-16 CA CA574,914A patent/CA1262089B/en not_active Expired
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7278345B2 (en) | 2003-07-01 | 2007-10-09 | Springs Window Fashions, Llc | Blind trimming apparatus |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| NARE | Reissued | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |