Method and apparatus for linked horizontal drapery panels having varying characteristics to be moved independently by a common drive system

Abstract

A curtain assembly comprises a rotatable drive element wherein at least one helical guide structure is formed on, or into, the outer surface of the drive element. A drive attachment element having a structure that communicates with the helical guide structure to move the drive attachment element axially along the drive element when the drive element is rotated. Specific embodiments incorporate either a manual or motor-driven rotation assembly for rotating the drive element. Further specific embodiments involve a helical guide structure that comprises a helical groove and a structure that comprises a tooth that engages with the helical groove. Further specific embodiments relate to a system with linked horizontal drapery panels having varying characteristics that are moved independently by a common drive system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 702,093, filed Sep. 17, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, including any figures, tables, or drawings.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a window covering assembly used to cover windows. Specific embodiments of the invention relate to a window covering assembly with a rotatable drive element that has a structure formed into or on the outer surface of the rotatable drive element such that a window covering moves axially along the rotatable drive element when the rotatable drive element rotates. Further specific embodiments relate to a window covering assembly in which two different curtains are operated by the same rotating drive element such that the user is able to independently move each curtain. Further specific embodiments relate to a system with linked horizontal drape...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention relates to a window covering assembly, specifically a curtain assembly, that includes a drive element with a guide structure and a drive attachment element that moves along the guide structure when the drive element is rotated. The guide structure can be a helical pattern on the drive element or a tooth that moves the drive attachment element. The curtain assembly can also include a rotation assembly for rotating the drive element. The technical effects of the invention include improved control and efficiency in opening and closing window coverings, as well as improved durability and reliability of the window covering assembly.

Problems solved by technology

In these cases, the number of components used adds complexity to the assembly and also increases the cost of the assembly.

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