Systems and mechanisms for use with double blinds and double shades

Abstract

The present disclosure provides advantageous window covering mechanisms, systems and apparatus that permit multiple window shades (e.g., a pair of window shades) or blinds to be operated from a single headrail. The window covering mechanisms permit the multiple window shades to be operated by a single control mechanism, e.g., a single operating cord. A motion translation mechanism is generally for operation of the multiple shades. The mechanism may include oppositely directed windings of first and second lift cords relative to a rotatable member. The disclosed systems may be used with shades (e.g., Roman shades) and blinds such that interaction with a single cord or other control mechanism functions to simultaneously reposition first and second shade or blind panels. The first and second shade or blind panels may advantageously be selected to provide varying levels of light blocking and / or privacy properties.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application claims the benefit of a co-pending provisional patent application entitled “Double Blind / Shade System and Mechanism,” which was filed on Nov. 29, 2004 and assigned Ser. No. 60 / 631,521. The entire contents of the foregoing provisional patent application are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Technical Field [0003] The present disclosure is directed to mechanisms, systems and apparatus for use with window coverings and, more particularly, to mechanisms, systems and apparatus for use with shades and / or blinds such that interaction with a single cord or alternative controller functions to simultaneously reposition first and second shade / blind panels. [0004] 2. Background Art [0005] A variety of window covering designs and systems have been developed to address various window treatment objectives, both residential and commercial. Roller shades are useful in addressing many window covering needs. Typ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015] The current invention provides advantageous window covering mechanisms, systems and apparatus that permit multiple window shades (e.g., a pair of window shades) and / or window blinds to be operated from a single headrail. The current invention also provides window covering mechanisms, systems and apparatus that permit multiple window shades (e.g., a pair of window shades) to be operated by a single control mechanism, e.g., a single operating cord. These and other needs are satisfied by the mechanisms, systems and apparatus described herein. Thus, the current invention offers advantageous mechanisms, systems and apparatus for use with shades (e.g., Roman Shades) such that interaction with a single cord or other control mechanism functions to simultaneously reposition first and second shade panels. The first and second shade panels may advantageously be selected to provide varying levels of light blocking and / or privacy properties.

[0016] More particularly, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure allow at least two distinct shade panels, e.g., Roman Shades (i.e., shade systems that feature folding fabric shades), to be operated off of a single headrail. In use, the lift cord for the shade positioned in front may be drawn up, e.g., on a cylindrical shaft, thereby lifting the front shade, and such lift cord movement is automatically associated with a corresponding, but opposite motion of the lift cord for the rear shade, i.e., the latter lift cord is let out and the rear shade is thereby lowered. The simultaneous translation of motion from an operating cord / controller to the front lift cord and rear lift cord may be effectively achieved by providing a continuous cord loop. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, one continuous cord loop may be operated to advantageously draw up the rear shade while lowering the front shade and, conversely, to simultaneously raise the front shade while lowering the rear one.

[0020] The presently disclosed motion translation mechanism / system offers numerous advantages and benefits for the window treatment field. For example, in implementations wherein first and second shades are positioned at substantially opposite extremes (i.e., the first shade open when the second shade is closed, and vice versa), the disclosed mechanism / system advantageously offers a balance between the two shades, putting less weight and stress on the operating mechanism and support structure. Although the disclosed motion translation mechanism / system has particular utility in Roman Shade implementations, other type of shades that are raised by lift cord systems also may be benefited through implementations of the disclosed motion translation mechanism / system, including, inter alia, pleated shades, cellular shades and horizontal blinds.

Problems solved by technology

There are several limitations and / or undesirable attributes associated with multi-window covering implementations (e.g., window covering treatments that include a first, sheer window covering and a second, heavier window covering), including: Multiple hardware systems are required to operate multiple window coverings, taking up additional space inside the window frame and adding cost to the product and / or installation.

Multiple operating cords or wands are needed, causing confusion for the operator as individuals frequently select the wrong cord in attempting to operate or adjust a specific window covering.

Potentially increased safety concerns associated with multiple operating cords; indeed, operating cords have been determined to be a potential safety hazard by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

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