Operating systems for building coverings

Abstract

The present invention provides an operating system for a building covering. The operating system allows at least three operating modes of the building covering. A transmission device can be included between an input assembly and an output drive component, and the transmission device can be selectively engaged to place the operating system in one of the at least three operating modes. The operating system may include: a first drive section, the first drive section including an input; a second drive section, the second drive section including an output; and a control mechanism, the control mechanism being arranged to selectively lock elements of the first drive section and the second drive section to control the movement of the output of the operating system after actuating the input. A conversion lock is also disclosed herein. In use, the conversion lock acts to constrain the conversion of the operation of the operating system from one operating mode to another operating mode.

Description

[0001] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 413,301, filed on October 26, 2016, entitled “Operating System for an Architectural Covering,” and claims priority to pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 452,404, filed on January 31, 2017, entitled “Operating System for an Architectural Covering,” and claims priority to pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 530,516, filed on July 10, 2017, entitled “Operating System for an Architectural Covering,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to building coverings and, more particularly, to operating systems for building coverings. Background Art

[0004] Architectural coverings, such as coverings for structures including walls and openings such as windows, front doors, archways, etc., have taken numerous forms over the years. Some coverings include retractable shade material that can be moved between various positions or configurations, such as between an extended position and a retracted position. Additionally or alternatively, the shade material can be moved between an open configuration in which a portion of the shade material is manipulated to allow viewing through the shade material and a closed configuration in which a portion of the shade material is manipulated to prevent viewing through the shade material. In order to move the shade material between multiple positions or configurations, some coverings include an operating system. Some operating systems use a retractable cord mechanism to operate the operating system of the blackout curtain or shade, thereby eliminating longer dangling cords and providing a relatively constant cord length. The retractable cord mechanism of some coverings can be operated by a user (e.g., pulled against each other and automatically retracted, which may alternatively be referred to as "pumping" for convenience and without intent to be limiting) to move the shelter material in one or more directions or into one or more configurations to retract the shelter material, alternately retract and deploy the shelter material, or close and retract the shelter material. Some operating systems allow the shelter material or shelter (such terms are used interchangeably herein without intent to be limiting) to gravity drop under its own weight to deploy the shelter material across a building structure / feature. Some coverings include a separate mechanism that biases the shelter material to open (e.g., automatically) after the shelter material reaches a fully deployed configuration. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure generally provides an operating system for building coverings, which provides improvements or replacements to existing arrangements. The operating system can be coupled to a shelter material to facilitate the operation of the building covering, such as facilitating the movement of the shelter material across a building structure or an opening or within a building structure or an opening. The user can operate the operating system in two or more ways, such as three ways, to unfold, open, and retract / close the shelter material relative to the building structure / feature. In one example, the operating system can selectively allow the shelter material to descend by gravity across the building structure / feature. Once unfolded, the operating system can be operated (e.g., to interoperate and automatically reset) to open the shelter material via a retractable rope mechanism operated by the user. The user can also operate the retractable rope mechanism to close and / or retract the shelter material. In one embodiment, the operating system includes a control mechanism that is movable to change the direction of rotation of a drive component. The control mechanism can alternately engage different components of the operating system, such as different components of a transmission, to change the operation of the operating system. In one embodiment, the control mechanism is arranged to selectively lock a shared element between a plurality of drive sections of the transmission to control movement of the transmission and thereby rotation of the drive member.

[0006] This summary of the disclosure is given to assist understanding, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may be advantageously used alone in some cases, or in other cases, each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may be used in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure. Therefore, although the disclosure is presented in accordance with the embodiments, it should be understood that individual aspects of any embodiment may be claimed alone, or in combination with aspects and features of that embodiment or any other embodiment. The current disclosure of certain embodiments is merely exemplary in nature, and is in no way intended to limit the claimed invention or its application or use. It will be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural and / or logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0007] The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in this application, and the scope of the subject matter claimed for protection shall not be considered to be limited by the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this summary. In some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the present disclosure or that make other details difficult to understand may have been omitted. In addition, for the sake of clarity, when the detailed description of a particular feature will be obvious to those skilled in the art, the detailed description of the particular feature will not be discussed so as not to obscure the description of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the subject matter claimed for protection is not necessarily limited to the specific embodiments or arrangements described herein, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure by way of illustration only and, together with the general description above and the detailed description below, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1 is a front left isometric view of an operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 Exploded left front view of the operating system.

[0011] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of an output carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of an input gear according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of an overdrive gear according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 6 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 Exploded right rear view of the operating system.

[0015] Figure 7 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 The line VII-VII is obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an operating system.

[0016] Figure 8 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 2 The line VIII-VIII is obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a gear set of an operating system.

[0017] Fig. 9According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line IX-IX is obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an operating system and illustrating the operation of the first gear system.

[0018] Fig.10 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line XX obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operating system of FIG. 1 and illustrating the operation of the second gear system.

[0019] Fig.11 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line XI-XI is obtained Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the operating system and showing the meshing of the gear set with the drive component.

[0020] Fig.12 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line XII-XII is obtained Figure 1 0024] A cross-sectional view of an operating system of the present invention and showing the converter in a first operating position.

[0021] Fig.13 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line XIII-XIII is obtained Figure 1 0024] A cross-sectional view of an operating system of the embodiment of the present invention and showing the converter in a second operating position.

[0022] Fig.14 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 7 The line XIV-XIV was obtained Figure 1 0024] A cross-sectional view of an operating system of the embodiment of the present invention and showing the converter in a second operating position.

[0023] Fig.15 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.14 An enlarged fragment view of Figure 1 Overdrive gear channel of the operating system.

[0024] Fig.16 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 9 The line XVI-XVI obtained Figure 1 Additional cross-sectional view of the overdrive gear channel of the operating system.

[0025] Fig.17 is associated with a shield element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 operating system perspective.

[0026] Fig.18is obtained along line XVIII-XVIII according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.17 and showing the shield element in a retracted configuration.

[0027] Fig.19 is obtained along line XIX-XIX according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.17 and showing the shield element in an extended, closed configuration.

[0028] Fig. 20 is obtained along line XX-XX according to an embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.17 0 and showing the shield element in a deployed, open configuration.

[0029] Fig.21 is a partially exploded view of an additional operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 22 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of an operating system.

[0031] Fig.23 is a schematic representation of an additional operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.24 is a schematic representation of an additional operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.25 is a partially exploded front view of an additional operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Fig.26 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.25 A partially exploded rear view of the operating system.

[0035] Fig. 27 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.25 1 is a rear elevation view of an operating system of the invention showing a conversion lock feature or mechanism in a first configuration. For illustrative purposes, the end cap is transparent.

[0036] Fig.28 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.25 1, showing the transfer lock in the second configuration. For illustrative purposes, the end cap is transparent.

[0037] Fig.29 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.251, showing the transfer lock in the third configuration. For illustrative purposes, the end cap is transparent.

[0038] Fig.30 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.25 A magnified fragment cross-sectional view taken along line XXX-XXX.

[0039] Fig.31 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig. 27 A magnified fragment cross-sectional view taken along line XXXI-XXXI.

[0040] Fig.32 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.25 Front elevation view of the operating system.

[0041] Fig.33 is a perspective view of a barrier element according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Fig.34 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.33 A cross-sectional view taken along line XXXIV-XXXIV.

[0043] Fig.35 is a partially exploded view of an additional operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an operating system is provided for moving an associated covering or covering material, which for convenience may alternatively be referred to as a "covering," to a user's desired position. For example, the operating system may move the associated covering between a deployed position, in which the covering at least partially covers an associated architectural structure / feature (e.g., a window, a front door, an arch, etc.), and a retracted position, in which the covering is retracted at least partially across the architectural structure / feature. Additionally, once the covering is positioned in a desired position across the architectural structure / feature, such as in the deployed position or the retracted position, the operating system may be operable to open and / or close the covering, such as to open or close portions of the covering, such as operable blades of the covering.

[0045] In order to control the operation of the operating system, the operating system may be provided with a control mechanism that can be operated to cause the operating system to switch between different operating modes (e.g., between two, three or more operating modes). In one embodiment, the operating system switches between more than two operating modes. In one embodiment, the control mechanism alternately engages different components of the operating system, such as different components of a transmission, to convert the operating system between multiple operating modes. For example, in a first operating mode, the operating system operates to close and / or retract the covering. In a second operating mode, the operating system operates to allow the covering to be deployed across a building structure / feature, such as automatically deployed under gravity. In a third operating mode, the operating system operates to open the covering, such as opening an operating element (e.g., blade) of the covering, such as once the covering is in an expanded position. Various operating modes can be achieved, for example, by engaging or disengaging a control mechanism from at least a portion of a transmission. In addition, additionally or alternatively, various operating modes can be achieved by engaging or disengaging different sections of a transmission. In one embodiment, the second operating mode is achieved by disengaging the control mechanism from the transmission. In one embodiment, the first operating mode is achieved by engaging a control mechanism with a first component of the transmission. In one embodiment, a third operating mode is achieved by engagement of a control mechanism with a second component of a transmission. Depending on the position of the control mechanism, the transmission can operably move (e.g., rotate, lift, open, close, etc.) the covering, for example, by rotating a rotatable element or tube in one of two directions. In at least one embodiment, the transmission can provide different drive ratios depending on the operating mode to correspond to the operational requirements of the operating system (e.g., closing, retracting and / or opening an associated covering). For example, in one embodiment, opening the covering is achieved by rotating the drive component in the same direction as the rotation used to deploy the covering. However, more refined control of movement in the deployment direction may be required in the process of controlling elements (e.g., blades) of the covering to move the deployed covering to the open configuration.

[0046] As explained herein, the control mechanism is operable to control the movement of the transmission to provide a desired output. For example, the transmission can be driven by an input that always rotates in the same direction (e.g., in a first direction). Depending on the selective engagement of the control mechanism with different components of the transmission, the direction of rotation of the output of the transmission can be the same as the input, different from the input, controlled by the input, or not controlled by the input (e.g., freely rotating relative to the input). This characteristic can be achieved by the interaction of two or more drive sections with each other. In one embodiment, the input of the operating system is associated with the first drive section of the transmission. In one embodiment, the output of the operating system is associated with the second drive section of the transmission. As explained herein, controlling at least a portion of one of the drive sections (e.g., via a control mechanism) controls another / other section linked thereto, thereby affecting the output of the operating system after the input actuation.

[0047] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein reference numbers are used for convenience and to aid understanding without intent to be limiting, an operating system 100 is provided that can be used in conjunction with an architectural covering 102. The architectural covering 102 can be moved between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration by rotating a drive member, such as a roller blind that moves after rotating a roller tube (e.g., see Figures 17 to 20 ). In one embodiment, the operating system 100 includes a housing 104, an input assembly 106 (which in some embodiments may be referred to as a retractable cord mechanism or cord reel), a rotatable drive member 108, a directional control mechanism 110, and a transmission 112 configured to rotate the drive member 108 upon actuation of the input assembly 106. As explained below, the drive member 108 may be rotated in a first direction E or in a second, opposite direction R, depending on the position of the directional control mechanism 110, and the rotation of the drive member 108 may move the covering 102 relative to the building structure / feature, such as causing the covering 102 to expand, retract, open, and / or close. For example, in one embodiment, the directional control mechanism 110 may selectively engage a first component 120 of the transmission 112 (see Figure 6 ) to achieve a first function of the operating system 100, such as causing the operating system 100 to operate in a first manner, which may be to at least partially retract the covering 102 and / or close the associated blades 122 of the covering 102 across the building structure / feature (e.g., a window, door, arch, etc.) after the drive member 108 is rotated in the second direction R (see Fig.18 and Fig.19 Similarly, the directional control mechanism 110 can selectively engage the second component 124 of the transmission 112 (see Figure 6) to implement a second function of the operating system 100, such as causing the operating system 100 to operate in a second manner to at least partially deploy the covering 102 across the building structure / feature after the drive member 108 is rotated in the first direction E (see Fig.19 Additionally or alternatively, selective engagement of the directional control mechanism 110 with the second component 124 of the transmission 112 can implement a third function of the operating system 100, such as causing the operating system 100 to operate in a third manner to open the blades 122 of the cover 102 after the drive member 108 is rotated in the first direction E (see Fig. 20 ). As described in detail below, the directional control mechanism 110 can allow a user to select a desired operating mode of the operating system 100 to position the covering 102 as desired. For example, the directional control mechanism 110 can include a switch 118 (or other component of the operating system 100 for switching the operation of the operating system 100 from one operating mode to another operating mode) that is movable to alternately engage the first and second components 120, 124 of the transmission 112 so as to selectively control the operation of the operating system 100 to achieve the desired positioning of the covering 102, as explained below. Alternatively, as will be described in more detail below, in one embodiment, the switch 118 can engage with a portion of the first drive section 164. The engagement of the switch 118 with a portion of the first drive section 164 (e.g., with the first component 160 of the first drive section 164) can limit the rotational movement of a portion of the first drive section 164 (e.g., the first component 160) to permit operation of the second drive section 165 to close the covering 102 and / or retract the covering 102 across the building structure / feature. Similarly, engagement of the converter 118 with a second portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., with the second component 162 of the second drive section 165) can limit rotational movement of the second portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., the second component 162) to permit operation of the second drive section 165 to deploy the covering 102 across a building structure / feature and / or open the covering 102 (e.g., open the blades 122 of the covering 102).

[0048] exist Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Fig.17 In one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the drive component 108 can be configured to transmit movement and / or torque from the transmission 112 to the covering 102. For example, the drive component 108 can be arranged to transmit movement and / or torque from the transmission 112 to the covering 102, for example, via a screen or covering winding component (e.g., a roller tube 136 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.17) or other functionally similar elements) to engage the shelter element. In these embodiments, the transmission 112 can be arranged to rotate the drive component 108 to control the operation of the covering 102. For example, the transmission 112 can rotate the drive component 108 to at least partially deploy the covering 102 across the architectural structure / feature, at least retract the covering 102 across the architectural structure / feature, and / or open and / or close the covering 102 when desired. For example, as explained in detail below, rotation of the drive component 108 can cause the covering 102 to move to a first position in which the covering 102 is fully deployed and closed (see Fig.19 Once the cover 102 is in the first position, rotation of the drive member 108, for example in the first direction E, can cause the cover 102 to move to the second position, in which the cover 102 is unfolded and opened (see Fig. 20 ). For example, once the covering 102 is deployed, rotation of the drive member 108 in the first direction E can open the blades 122 of the covering 102, for example by creating a gap 146 between two adjacent blades 122 by moving the blades 122 relative to each other (e.g., by moving the blade material 142 relative to the support sheet 140). When desired, the drive member 108 can be rotated in the opposite direction, such as in the second direction R, to reduce the gap 146 to close the blades 122, thereby reducing or eliminating view (sometimes referred to as see-through) between the blades 122 and positioning the covering 102 in the first position. Once the covering 102 is closed, the drive member 108 can be rotated in the second direction R via the transmission 112 to position the covering 102 in a third position, in which the covering 102 is at least partially retracted (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.18 ), as explained more fully below.

[0049] exist Figures 18 to 20 In one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the drive member 108 can be sized and shaped to engage a portion of the roller tube 136, such as by an interference fit or a friction fit. The drive member 108 can be formed as a hollow cylindrical member extending a length L from the end wall 132 and terminating in an outwardly flared flange 134 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 ) to define the hollow cylindrical member. To drive and rotate the roller tube 136, for example, the drive member 130 may include a plurality of longitudinal ribs 138 extending radially away from the cylindrical tube 130 and along the length L of the cylindrical tube 130 to frictionally engage or interlock with the inner surface of the roller tube 136 (see, for example, Fig.18In this way, rotating the drive member 108 via the transmission 112 can rotate the roller 136 in a corresponding manner. In these embodiments, the cover 102 can be coupled to the roller 136 so that after the roller 136 is rotated in the second direction R and the first direction E respectively via the drive member 108, the cover 102 is wound around or unwound from the roller 136 (see Figures 17 to 20 ). Although described in relation to roller blinds, the operating system 100 can be associated with other covering types, including stacked and vertical shades or coverings. In these embodiments, the operating system 100 can be operable to deploy, retract, open and / or close various coverings in a manner similar to that described below, which is presented for illustrative purposes and is not intended to be limiting.

[0050] To permit various operating modes of the operating system 100, the transmission 112 may include one or more drive sections, such as first and second drive sections 164, 165, which are operably coupled together (see Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 ), but are individually controlled by the directional control mechanism 110. For example, as described more fully below, the first and second drive segments 164, 165 can include multiple portions that are selectively engaged by the directional control mechanism 110 to modify the rotation of the drive member 108. As explained below, actuating the input assembly 106 actuates the first and second drive segments 164, 165 to allow the drive member 108 to rotate so as to retract, deploy, close, or open the cover 102 depending on the position of the switch 118. For example, in one embodiment, as previously mentioned and as explained in more detail below, the directional control mechanism 110 can include a switch 118 to selectively engage the first component 120 of the transmission 112 (see Figure 6 ) to implement the first function of the operating system 100, or to selectively engage the second component 124 of the transmission 112 (see Figure 6) to implement the second function of the operating system 100. Alternatively, in another embodiment, as explained more fully below, the switch 118 can be engaged with a portion of the first drive section 164. The engagement of the switch 118 with a portion of the first drive section 164 (e.g., with the first component 160 of the first drive section 164) can limit the rotational movement of a portion of the first drive section 164 (e.g., the first component 160) to permit operation of the second drive section 165 to close the covering 102 and / or retract the covering 102 across the building structure / feature. Similarly, the engagement of the switch 118 with a second portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., with the second component 162 of the second drive section 165) can limit the rotational movement of the second portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., the second component 162) to permit operation of the second drive section 165 to deploy the covering 102 across the building structure / feature and / or open the covering 102 (e.g., open the blades 122 of the covering 102). In some embodiments, the transmission 112 can be a planetary gear system, with each of the first and second drive sections 164, 165 constituting a planetary gear set, although any other configuration that permits operation of the operating system 100 described herein is contemplated. In one embodiment, the transmission 112 (e.g., the first and second drive sections 164, 165) can be concentrically mounted within the drive member 108 along an axis of rotation A, which can correspond to the axis of rotation of the roller tube 136 (see FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 7 ).

[0051] Each of the first and second drive segments 164, 165 can include one or more elements arranged to move closely within the operating system 100 and / or selectively engage with the direction control mechanism 110. For example, in one embodiment, each of the first and second drive segments 164, 165 includes an input element and an output element, and the output element is operably controlled by the input element, such as via one or more elements operably positioned between the input element and the output element. In these embodiments, the direction control mechanism 110 can selectively lock one or more elements of the first and / or second drive segments 164, 165 to prevent rotation so as to control the output direction of the first and / or second drive segments 164, 165. For example, in one embodiment, the first component 160 includes an outer periphery 174 defining an engagement profile 176, and the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118) is operable to selectively engage the engagement profile 176 to selectively control the rotation of the first component 160 and thus control the movement of the first drive segment 164, as described in detail herein. Similarly, the second component 162 may include an outer periphery 212 defining an engagement profile 214 that the direction control mechanism 110 (eg, the converter 118 ) is operable to selectively engage to selectively control rotation of the second component 162 and, thereby, movement of the second drive section 165 , as described in detail below.

[0052] In one embodiment, the first drive section 164 of the transmission 112 has a first component 160 including a first base 166 and a hollow cylindrical first tube 168 extending a first length L1 from the first base 166 (see Figure 2 and Figure 6). The first base 166 includes opposing first and second surfaces 170, 172 that can slide against other elements of the operating system 100 (e.g., can slide against the second component 162 and slide against the housing 104, respectively). In some embodiments, the first base 166 defines an engagement profile 176 with which the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118) selectively engages to control the rotation of the first component 160. The engagement profile 176 can be a toothed or stepped profile defined by a plurality of protrusions 178 extending radially away from the first base 166, but other shapes and configurations are contemplated for achieving the purposes explained below. The protrusions 178 can be sized and shaped to extend coextensively with the first and / or second surfaces 170, 172 of the first base 166. The first tube 168 may include inner and outer surfaces 180, 190 (see, respectively, FIG. 1 ) that may slide against other elements of the operating system 100 during operation (e.g., may slide against a portion of the housing 104 and may slide against an interior portion of the second member 162, respectively). Figure 2 and Figure 6 ), as explained below. In one embodiment, a plurality of struts 192 can extend from a terminal end 194 of the first tube 168, for example, to associate the first component 160 with other elements of the first drive section 164, as explained more fully below.

[0053] The second component 162 can be arranged and shaped similarly to the first component 160 for similar purposes. That is, the second component 162 can include a second base 196 and a hollow cylindrical second tube 198 extending a second length L2 from the second base 196, and the second base 196 and the second tube 198 can slide against the first base 166 and the first tube 168 of the first component 160, respectively. The second base 196 can also include a first surface 200 and an opposing second surface 210, defining an outer perimeter 212 therebetween to allow the second component 162 to smoothly rotate relative to other elements of the operating system 100 (e.g., relative to a portion of the housing 104 and relative to the first component 160). In some embodiments, the second base 196 defines an engagement profile 214, and the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118) selectively engages with the engagement profile 214 to control the rotation of the second component 162. The engagement profile 214 of the second component 162 may be defined by a plurality of gear teeth 216 extending radially away from the second base 196 (eg, extending coextensively with the first and / or second surfaces 200 , 210 of the second base 196 ).

[0054] However, the operating system 100 may employ substantially any suitable configuration, and the various components of the transmission 112 may be nested together in embodiments where compactness is a desired characteristic. For example, the first component 160 and / or the second component 162 may be configured such that at least a portion of the first component 160 (e.g., the first tube 168) may be rotatably received at least partially within the second tube 198 of the second component 162 (see FIG. Figure 7 ). In these embodiments, the second tube 198 can define a two-part inner surface 220. For example, referring to Figure 8 , the inner surface 220 of the second tube 198 may include a gear surface 222 and a smooth surface 224 to engage the transmission 112 and the first component 160, respectively, and the smooth surface 224 may slide against the outer surface 190 of the first tube 168 and may be sized to accommodate the first tube 168. The length L of the drive component 108 may be greater than the second length L2 of the second tube 198 to hide and protect the transmission 112.

[0055] In some embodiments, the transmission 112 can be arranged to provide variable control of the drive member 108 and, therefore, the cover 102 to match the operational requirements (e.g., torque, speed, etc.) of the operating system 100 in order to achieve the desired function (e.g., closing, retracting and / or opening the cover 102, among others). For example, the transmission 112 can provide various mechanical advantages or controls, such as two or more drive ratios, depending on whether the cover 102 is being retracted or opened. In these embodiments, the various mechanical advantages can provide a desired operating speed or efficiency of the operating system 100, such as increased control for fine adjustments to the cover 102 (e.g., during opening of the cover 102) and / or increased speed for coarse adjustments to the cover 102 (e.g., during retracting of the cover 102). For example, the transmission 112 can be arranged to provide a relatively high mechanical advantage (e.g., a first drive ratio or gear ratio) for rotating the drive member 108 in a first direction E to deploy and / or open the cover 102, and a relatively low mechanical advantage (e.g., a second drive ratio or gear ratio) for rotating the drive member 108 in a second direction R to retract and / or close the cover 102. The drive ratio can be defined by the ratio of the number of rotations of the input mechanism (e.g., the input assembly 106) to the number of rotations of the output (e.g., the drive member 108) during the same time period. The first drive ratio can be higher than the second drive ratio to at least provide the required torque and / or desired speed for opening and retracting the cover 102, respectively. In some embodiments, the first drive ratio can be between about 5:1 and about 10:1, and preferably about 8:1, to finely adjust the cover 102 in situations where operating speed is not much of an issue (e.g., fine adjustments during opening the cover 102) and / or in situations where relative ease (e.g., less force) is required to operate the cover 102. In these embodiments, the second drive ratio may be between about 1:1 and about 5:1, and may preferably be about 3:1 to limit the input force required to retract the cover 102, but not to retract the cover 102 so slowly that it is annoying. The transmission 112 may be configured to balance the requirements of the operating system 100 based on the specific covering configuration (e.g., heavy versus light covering, speed versus easy lifting force, etc.). For example, the transmission 112 may be configured to provide drive ratios that are customized and / or for different configurations of the covering 102 based on customer needs and desires. For example, a covering with increased weight and / or rolling resistance may require a drive ratio with increased mechanical advantage, or vice versa.

[0056] In non-exclusive embodiments, where the first drive section 164 includes a planetary gear set, the first drive section 164 can include a first sun gear 244, and a first set of planet gears 246 matingly mesh with the first sun gear 244 and are carried by a first carrier 248 that positions the first set of planet gears 246 about the first sun gear 244. For example, the first carrier 248, which can be defined by (e.g., formed as part of) the first member 160, can include a plurality of struts, such as struts 192, spaced circumferentially about the first sun gear 244. In these embodiments, the first set of planet gears 246 can each rotate on the struts 192 when the first sun gear 244 rotates relative to the first carrier 248. As described below, in some embodiments, the first set of planet gears 246 can also be rotatably mounted on struts 250 extending from a transfer member 252 that operably connects the first drive section 164 to the second drive section 165. By rotatably mounting the first set of planetary gears 246 on the struts 192 of the first carrier 248 and the struts 250 of the transfer member 252, the transfer member 252 and the first carrier 248 (first member 160) can rotate together (or remain stationary) to transfer motion between the first drive section 164, 165, as described below. As explained more fully below, the first sun gear 244 can be rotationally driven by an input mechanism (e.g., input assembly 106). In these embodiments, actuation of the input mechanism (e.g., rotation of the input assembly 106) can rotate the first sun gear 244 in one embodiment, which in turn causes the first set of planetary gears 246 to rotate correspondingly about their respective axes. Depending on the position of the direction control mechanism 110, the first carrier 248 and therefore the first set of planetary gears 246 may or may not orbit or revolve around the first sun gear 244. For example, selective engagement of the converter 118 with the first component 160 (e.g., with the meshing profile 176 of the first component 160) limits rotation of the first component 160 carrying the first set of planetary gears 246, thereby causing the first set of planetary gears 246 to be limited to rotating only about their individual axes (and not around the first sun gear 244) after the first sun gear 244 rotates.

[0057] Similarly, the second drive section 165 can include a second sun gear 260, and a second set of planet gears 262 matingly mesh with the second sun gear 260 and are carried by a second carrier 264 that positions the second set of planet gears 262 about the second sun gear 260. The second carrier 264 can include a plurality of struts 266 circumferentially spaced about the second sun gear 260, and each of the second set of planet gears 262 can rotate on the struts 266 when the second sun gear 260 rotates relative to the second carrier 264. As explained more fully below, the second sun gear 260 can be rotationally driven by an input mechanism (e.g., by the output of the first drive section 164, such as by the transfer member 252). To allow for transmission of force between the first and second drive sections 164, 165, the second sun gear 260 and the transfer member 252 rotate together, such as being molded or formed as a single element. In these embodiments, rotation of the input mechanism rotates the second sun gear 260, which in turn causes the second set of planetary gears 262 to make corresponding rotations about their respective axes. Depending on the selective engagement of the converter 118 with the first component 160 or the second component 162, the second set of planetary gears 262 can travel (alternatively, "orbit" or "revolve", either of which terms may be used interchangeably and without limitation) around the second sun gear 260 in the first direction E or the second direction R after the second set of planetary gears 262 rotate about their respective axes, thereby causing the second carrier 264 to make corresponding rotations about the second sun gear 260. For example, the selective engagement of the converter 118 with the first component 160 can cause the second set of planetary gears 262 to travel (and the ring gear 268 to rotate) around the second sun gear 260 in the second direction R via the transfer component 252 operably coupled to the first component 160 while the second sun gear 260 remains stationary. Similarly, selective meshing of the converter 118 with the second member 162 (and thus the ring gear 268 formed therein) can cause the second set of planet gears 262 to travel about the second sun gear 260 in the first direction E, as explained in greater detail below.

[0058] To allow for selective operation and variable control of the operating system 100, the first and second drive segments 164, 165 are coupled so that rotation of one drive segment affects rotation of the other drive segment, for example, by sharing an element therebetween or by coupling one or more elements therebetween (e.g., an element that transmits movement between the first and second drive segments 164, 165) to rotate together. In these embodiments, the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118) can be arranged to selectively lock the shared elements of the first and second drive segments 164, 165 or the elements that transmit rotation between the first and second drive segments 164, 165 to control the operation of the transmission 112. For example, the first and second drive segments 164, 165 can share a ring gear 268 that meshes with the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262. In at least one embodiment, rotation of the first set of planetary gears 246 or the second set of planetary gears 262 can cause rotation of the ring gear 268 and thus rotation of the other planetary gear set, such as in the event that one of the planetary gear sets cannot revolve around its corresponding sun gear. In one embodiment, the ring gear 268 can be formed as part of the second component 162, for example, formed within or as part of the second tube 198 of the second component 162 (e.g., formed as part of the gear surface 222). In these embodiments, the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262 are at least partially positioned between the ring gear 268 and their corresponding sun gears 244, 260, within the second tube 198 of the second component 162. As explained below, the selective engagement of the converter 118 with the second component 162 can control the operation mode of the operating system 100. For example, selective engagement of the converter 118 with the second component 162 locks the ring gear 268 from rotating in at least one direction (e.g., from rotating in at least the second direction R), which in turn causes the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262 to travel or revolve around their respective sun gears 244, 260 as the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262 rotate about their respective axes.

[0059] To at least control the movement of the cover 102, the second carrier 264 (which may be referred to as an output or output carrier) may be configured to operatively engage the drive member 108. For example, the second carrier 264 and the drive member 108 may include corresponding structures such that movement of one will correspondingly move the other. Figure 3In one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the second carrier 264 may include an engagement mechanism, such as a protrusion 280 extending from a wall 282 positioned between the protrusion 280 and the support 266. The protrusion 280 may include a plurality of radially extending projections 284 spaced circumferentially around the protrusion 280. In these embodiments, the drive component 108 may include an aperture 286 defined in its end wall 132 and a plurality of slots 288 (see FIG. 1 ) defined around the aperture that correspond (e.g., in size, shape, and / or position) to the projections 284 on the second carrier 264. Fig.11 In the assembled state, the protrusion 280 of the second carrier 264 can be at least partially received in the aperture 286 of the drive member 108, wherein the protrusion 284 of the second carrier 264 is received in the slot 288 of the drive member 108 (see Fig.11 ), so that rotation of one of the second carrier 264 and the drive member 108 is transmitted to the other. Therefore, rotation of the transmission 112 can drivingly rotate the drive member 108 (or vice versa). In order to maintain the engagement of the drive member 108 with the second carrier 264, the drive member 108 and the second carrier 264 can include corresponding retention features, which can be releasable in some embodiments to permit disassembly of the operating system 100 when necessary. For example, the protrusion 280 of the second carrier 264 can include a plurality of resilient locking hooks 290, each of which is at least partially defined by a terminal hook portion 292, and the terminal hook portion 292 defines a diameter larger than the diameter of the aperture 286. In these embodiments, the protrusion 280 is inserted into the aperture 286 (with the projection 284 and the slot 288 in axial alignment) until the hook portion 292 passes through the end wall 132 of the drive member 108, at which time the locking hook 290 expands to secure at least a portion of the end wall 132 between the hook portion 292 and the wall 282 of the second carrier 264 (see Figure 7 ).

[0060] To hold the transmission 112 together, the transmission 112 can be rotatably received at least partially within the housing 104. Figure 7 , the housing 104 may include first and second halves 300, 302 that engage each other to enclose portions of the first and second components 160, 162. As shown, the first half 300 may include a protrusion 304 and an annular recess 306 at least partially defined by a bottom wall 308 extending around the protrusion 304. The annular recess 306 may receive the first and second bases 166, 196 of the first and second components 160, 162, respectively. The recess 306 may include a depth substantially corresponding to the combined thickness of the first and second bases 166, 196 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 7). In these embodiments, the second surface 172 of the first component 160 can rotatably abut or slide against the bottom wall 308 of the first half 300 to, for example, limit axial movement of the first component 160 relative to the housing 104. To rotatably support the assembled transmission 112, the protrusion 304 can extend away from the bottom wall 308 by a third length L3 that generally corresponds to the first length L1 of the first tube 168 of the first component 160. In these embodiments, the first component 160 can rotate about the protrusion 304. As shown, the protrusion 304 can be concentrically aligned with the transmission 112 along the rotation axis A.

[0061] The second half 302 of the housing 104 may include a central opening 310 through which the tubes 168, 198 of the first and second components 160, 162, respectively, may be received (see FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 7 ). In some embodiments, the central opening 310 can be sized to also receive the flange 134 of the drive member 108. Once assembled, the first surface 200 of the second member 162 can be rotatably abutted against or slide against the inner surface 312 of the second half 302. In this way, the first and second bases 166, 196 of the first and second members 160, 162, respectively, can be enclosed between the first and second halves 300, 302 of the housing 104 to couple the transmission 112 to the housing 104 or at least partially within the housing 104 (see Figure 7 ). To couple the first and second halves 300, 302 together, the first and second halves 300, 302 may include corresponding retaining features. For example, the first half 300 may include a plurality of protrusions 314 spaced around the periphery of the first half 300 (see Figure 6 The second half 302 may include a plurality of corresponding locking hooks 316 that engage the protrusions 314 of the first half 300 to slide the two halves 300, 302 into engagement and secure them together (see Figure 1 ), but other suitable fastening mechanisms may be utilized, such as fasteners, heat or sonic welding, adhesives, etc.

[0062] As described above, the movement of the transmission 112 can be controlled by the input assembly 106. For example, the input assembly 106 can be adapted to drivingly rotate a portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., the first drive section 164) upon user actuation. As explained below, the input assembly 106 can provide an input force to the transmission 112 to rotate the transmission 112 and thereby rotate the drive member 108. In one example, the input assembly 106 can include a spring motor 330 and an input shaft 332 coupled thereto (see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the actuator may be activated by an actuator element, such as by driving a cable 334 (see, for example, Fig.13 ) to actuate the spring motor 330. In these embodiments, the input shaft 332 can be coupled to the spring motor 330 so that rotation of the spring motor 330 caused by actuating the drive rope 334 causes the input shaft 332 to rotate. For example, the drive rope 334 can engage the spring motor 330 at a point spaced away from the rotation axis of the spring motor 330, thereby generating a torque that biases the spring motor 330 to rotate (e.g., in a first direction E) after actuating the drive rope 334. The rotation of the spring motor 330 can cause the input shaft 332 to rotate, and the rotation of the input shaft 332 can rotatably drive the transmission 112, as described in detail below. In some embodiments, the drive rope 334 can be wrapped around an outer portion of the spring motor 330, such as wrapped within the annular groove 336, so that the torque provided by the movement of the drive rope 334 is relatively constant during operation.

[0063] To allow repeated operation of the input assembly 106, the spring motor 330 may be biased, for example via a clock spring 337 or similar device, to rotate in a second direction R so that the drive rope 334 is wound around the spring motor 330 (see Figure 6). In this way, the user can operate the input assembly 106 using a series of relatively short strokes of the drive rope 334 away from the operating system 100. For example, during a power stroke, the user can move the drive rope 334 a first distance away from the spring motor 330 (e.g., downward) to rotate the spring motor 330 in the first direction E, at which point the user can release or reduce the amount of force applied to the drive rope 334. Once sufficient force is released, the spring motor 330 can be biased to rotate in the second direction R to retract the drive rope 334 and cause the drive rope 334 to wrap around the outer portion of the spring motor 330 (e.g., a reset stroke). Once reset, the drive rope 334 can be actuated again (i.e., a power stroke) to continue rotating the spring motor 330, which in turn causes the transmission 112 to rotate the drive member 108. The process of alternating between power strokes and reset strokes can be repeated until the drive member 108 is rotated a desired sufficient amount via the transmission 112 (e.g., via the second carrier 264). Because the drive cord 334 can be biased to wind around the spring motor 330, only a small portion of the drive cord 334 (e.g., only the handle portion) can be visible when the drive cord 334 is retracted, thereby increasing the aesthetic effect of the operating system 100 and / or associated cover. To prevent the drive cord 334 from overwinding, the drive cord 334 can include a stop mechanism 338 that is operable to engage a portion of the operating system 100 and / or cover 102, as explained below. In some embodiments, the stop mechanism 338 can be threaded or include other engagement mechanisms to enable a contact or operating element, such as a rod or handle 340 (hereinafter referred to as a "handle" for convenience, without limitation), to couple thereto (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 1 ).

[0064] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7, the input shaft 332 can be operatively coupled to the spring motor 330 such that rotation of the spring motor 330 rotates the input shaft 332 to rotate the transmission 112. In some embodiments, the input shaft 332 can be arranged such that rotation of the spring motor 330 rotates the input shaft 332 in only one direction. For example, the input shaft 332 can be rotatably supported by two or more one-way or anti-reciprocating bearings (e.g., two bearings). As described in detail below, each of the bearings can permit rotation of the input shaft 332 therein in one direction, but can limit relative rotation of the input shaft 332 in the opposite direction, for example, via an internal roller that can engage a biasing ramp or wedge. As described herein, the bearings in combination can limit rotation of the input shaft 332 in different directions. For example, at least one of the one-way bearings (e.g., the first bearing 342) can be arranged to transmit rotational force from the spring motor 330 to the input shaft 332 in one direction, for example, configured to transmit rotation of the spring motor 330 in the first direction E to the input shaft 332, as explained below. In these embodiments, at least another one of the one-way bearings (e.g., the second bearing 346) can be arranged to complement the first bearing 342 to rotationally support the input shaft 332, and limit the rotation of the input shaft 332 to only one direction transmitted by the first bearing 342 during the cyclic movement of the spring motor 330 described above. Specifically, the first bearing 342 can be coupled to the spring motor 330 and the input shaft 332 (e.g., radially coupled between a portion of the spring motor 330 and the input shaft 332) such that during a power stroke of the input assembly 106, rotation of the spring motor 330 in a first direction E causes the input shaft 332 to correspondingly rotate in the first direction E (e.g., the first bearing 342 and the input shaft 332 rotate in unison during the power stroke). During the same power stroke, the input shaft 332 can rotate within the second bearing 346 in the first direction E. During a reset stroke of the input assembly 106, the spring motor 330 can rotate in a second direction R, thereby causing the first bearing 342 to rotate about the input shaft 332 in the second direction R, however, the input shaft 332 is restricted from rotating in the second direction R by the second bearing 346. In this way, the input shaft 332 can only rotate in the first direction E during operation of the input assembly 106 after input from the user, which can be beneficial, for example, to facilitate reciprocating motion of the drive rope 334 and / or to limit the operation of the system 100 to drive the spring motor 330. For example, without the use of the first and second bearings 342, 346, the input shaft 332 may rotate in the second direction R (e.g., under the weight of the cover 102), which may damage the spring motor 330.

[0065] In one embodiment, if Figure 7, the first bearing 342 can be received within the protruding portion 344 of the spring motor 330, for example, by a press fit. In order to rotationally couple the input shaft 332 to the spring motor 330, the first bearing 342 can be seated within the spring motor 330 in a manner that prevents the first bearing 342 from rotating relative to the spring motor 330. For example, the size and shape of the spring motor 330 and / or the first bearing 342 can be set to create an interference fit between the two elements to effectively lock the first bearing 342 to the spring motor 330. Figure 7 In an embodiment, the second bearing 346 can be rotationally fixed within the protrusion 304 of the housing 104, such as positioned within the bearing seat 348, such as by a press fit. In one embodiment, the bearing seat 348 can be rotationally fixed within the protrusion 304 of the housing 104. As shown, the bearing seat 348 can include a hollow body 350 having a plurality of fins 360 extending radially therefrom. The second bearing 346 can be seated within the body 350 of the bearing seat 348 in a manner to prevent rotation of the second bearing 346 relative to the body 350, such as via an interference fit or the like. In order to fix the bearing seat 348 within the protrusion 304, a plurality of corresponding grooves 362 can be defined within the inner wall of the protrusion 304, and the grooves 362 of the protrusion 304 can receive the fins 360 of the bearing seat 348. In order to properly position the bearing seat 348 within the boss 304, a spacer 364 can be received within the boss 304 and positioned between the spring motor 330 and the bearing seat 348. As with the bearing seat 348, the spacer 364 can be sized and shaped to be rotationally fixed within the boss 304, for example, by a radial fin structure similar to the bearing seat 348 engaging the groove 362 of the boss 304. Once positioned within the boss 304, the bearing seat 348 can be substantially flush with the axial end of the boss 304 (see FIG. Figure 7 Once in place, the first and second bearings 342, 346 may concentrically align the input shaft 332 with the boss 304 and the transmission 112, for example, along the axis of rotation A.

[0066] As described herein, the input shaft 332 may be key to rotating the transmission 112 (e.g., at least one of the first and second drive sections 164, 165 (e.g., the first drive section 164)) after actuating the spring motor 330. For example, the input shaft 332 may include a non-circular cross-section (see Fig. 9 ), such as semicircular, square, etc. In these embodiments, the first sun gear 244, which may be referred to as an input or input gear, may include an aperture 366 defined therethrough and configured to allow the input shaft 332 to rotate the first sun gear 244, such as having a corresponding non-circular cross-section (see Figure 4 ). Rotation of the input shaft 332 can drivingly rotate the first sun gear 244, which in turn can cause corresponding rotation of at least some of the remaining elements of the first and second drive sections 164, 165, such as to effect rotation of each of the drive component 108, the first and second components 160, 162, the first and second carriers 248, 264, the ring gear 268, the second sun gear 260, the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262, or any combination thereof (about their individual axes, about their respective sun gears, or both). For example, the input shaft 332 can freely rotate within an opening or aperture defined in the first and second components 160, 162, the first and second carriers 248, 264, and the drive component 108. Although shown and described as including a spring motor 330, the input assembly 106 can include any type of assembly or system operable to rotate the input shaft 332 in the first direction E, including an electric motor, a continuous rope loop or twisting rod mechanism, among others.

[0067] In order to control the operation of the transmission 112 and thus the rotation of the drive member 108, Figure 12 to Figure 14The embodiment of the operating system 100 described in the accompanying drawings may include a first lock portion and a second lock portion 380, 382 associated with the control mechanism 110 to enable rotation of the transmission 112 to rotate the drive member 108 in the first direction E or the second direction R. In one embodiment, the first lock portion and the second lock portion 380, 382 are configured to alternately engage different portions of the transmission 112. For example, as described in detail below, the first lock portion 380 can engage a first portion of the transmission 112 to restrict the drive member 108 from rotating in the first direction E, and the second lock portion 382 can engage another portion of the transmission 112 to restrict the drive member 108 from rotating in the second direction R. In each of the embodiments described herein, the switch 118 can be movable between engagement configurations to alternately engage the first lock portion 380 with the transmission 112, engage the second lock portion 382 with the transmission 112, or disengage the first and second lock portions 380, 382 from the transmission 112 to control movement of the operating system 100, as explained below. For example, engagement of the switch 118 with a first portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., with the first member 160) engages the first lock portion 380 to cause the operating system 100 to affect the rotational direction of the drive member 108 in a first manner, and thus affect the operation of the cover 102, such as closing and / or retracting the cover 102 by limiting the drive member 108 to rotate only in the second direction R. Similarly, engagement of the converter 118 with another portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., with the second member 162) disengages the first lock portion 380 and engages the second lock portion 382, ​​thereby affecting the rotational direction of the drive member 108 in another manner, such as by limiting the drive member 108 to rotate only in the first direction E to open the covering 102. Additionally or alternatively, disengagement of the first and second lock portions 380, 382 can affect the operation of the covering 102 in a third manner, such as by allowing the drive member 108 to rotate (e.g., freely) in the first direction E to allow the covering 102 to be deployed across a building structure / feature.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first lock portion 380 includes a first portion 400 of the converter 118. In these embodiments, the first portion 400 of the converter 118 can engage the engagement profile 176 of the first component 160 to limit the rotation of the first component 160. For example, the first portion 400 can include a first protrusion 404 configured to selectively engage the engagement profile 176 of the first component 160 to engage the first lock portion 380 to the transmission 112. As described in detail below, the first portion 400 of the converter 118 can selectively extend within an aperture defined in the first half 300 of the housing 104 to engage the first component 160.

[0069] In some embodiments, the second lock portion 382 includes a second portion 402 of the converter 118 and an overdrive gear 386, the second portion 402 of the converter 118 selectively engaging the second member 162 via the overdrive gear 386. As explained below, once the converter 118 is positioned to engage the second lock portion 382 to the transmission 112, the overdrive gear 386 can permit the operating system 100 to operate the covering 102 in two or more ways. For example, once the converter 118 is positioned to engage the second member 162, the overdrive gear 386 can operatively permit the covering 102 to gravity-drop across a building structure / feature without being affected by the transmission 112 (i.e., a gravity-drop feature), while also permitting the operating system 100 to driveably open the covering 102 once the covering 102 is fully lowered (i.e., deployed). For example, as described more fully below, once the converter 118 is positioned to mesh with the second component 162, the overdrive gear 386 can allow the second component 162 to rotate in only one direction (e.g., only in the first direction E). In the assembled state, the overdrive gear 386 matingly meshes with the meshing profile 214 of the second component 162, so that rotation of the second component 162 rotates the overdrive gear 386, or vice versa. Figure 5 As shown in , the overdrive gear 386 may include a plurality of gear teeth 388 that mate with the gear teeth 216 of the second component 162. Thus, the rotation of the second component 162 may be controlled by controlling the rotation of the overdrive gear 386. As described in detail below, the converter 118 may engage the overdrive gear 386 to limit the rotation of the second component 162. For example, the converter 118 may engage at least one of the gear teeth 388 of the overdrive gear 386 to limit the rotation of the overdrive gear 386. Once the converter 118 engages the overdrive gear 386, the overdrive gear 386 may in turn limit the rotation of the second component 162 as explained in more detail below. Fig. 9 , Fig.14 and Fig.15 , the overdrive gear 386 can rotate within and between the channel 390 defined by the first and second halves 300, 302 of the housing 104. The channel 390 can include a length defining a first channel portion 392 and a second channel portion 394. As explained below, the converter 118 can selectively extend into the second channel portion 394 to engage the overdrive gear 386 therein.

[0070] In some embodiments, the converter 118 can be an elongated member including a first portion 400 opposite a second portion 402 (see Fig.12 and Fig.13). In some embodiments, the converter 118 can be curved and can pivot about an axis positioned between the first and second portions 400, 402. As explained below, the axis can permit the converter 118 to move (e.g., swing) between two operating positions to engage the first member 160 (e.g., the first operating position, see Fig.12 ) or the second component 162 (eg, the second operating position, see Fig.13 ), thereby changing the operation of the operating system 100. The converter 118 can be rotatably or pivotally mounted to a portion of the operating system 100, for example, about a pivot protrusion 416 extending from the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408 (see Figure 2 ). The pivot projection 416 can be aligned with the axis of the switch 118 to permit the switch 118 to move between the first operating position and the second operating position.

[0071] To move the converter 118 between the operating positions of the converter 118, the drive cord 334 may be routed through the first portion 400 of the converter 118. Thus, a user may move the converter 118 between the operating positions of the converter 118 by manipulating the drive cord 334 in a particular direction. For example, moving the drive cord 334 toward the operating system 100 may move the converter 118 to its first operating position, and moving the drive cord 334 away from the operating system 100 may move the converter 118 to its second operating position.

[0072] The switch 118 may be releasably held so that the first lock portion 380 or the second lock portion 382 engages the transmission 112 in an alternating manner. For example, the operating system 100 may include a biasing mechanism 438 that biases the switch 118 to one of two operating positions based on the position of the switch 118. Figure 2 As shown in , the biasing mechanism 438 may include a plurality of magnets associated with the converter 118 and the end cap 408. A first magnet 440 may be secured to the end cap 408, such as to the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408, and a second magnet 442 may be associated with a portion of the converter 118, such as positioned within a cavity 444 defined in the second portion 402 of the converter 118 (see FIG. Fig.14 ).

[0073] The first and second magnets 440, 442 can be configured to repel each other in order to position the first or second lock portion 380, 382 of the switch 118 to engage with the transmission 112. When the switch 118 is positioned between its operating positions, the first and second magnets 440, 442 can be substantially aligned with each other, and the magnets 440, 442 can bias the switch 118 toward one of its operating positions. For example, once the first portion 400 of the switch 118 is positioned adjacent to the first component 160, the first and second magnets 440, 442 can repel each other to fully position the first portion 400 to engage with the first component 160. In the same manner, once the second portion 402 of the switch 118 is positioned adjacent to the second component 162, the first and second magnets 440, 442 can repel each other to fully position the switch 118 to engage with the second component 162. To provide the alternating repulsive forces, the first and second magnets 440, 442 may be positioned in an overlapping sliding relationship, with the second magnet 442 positioned to either side of the first magnet 440 depending on the position of the switch 118. Although shown and described as including a plurality of magnets, the biasing mechanism 438 may include any suitable structure or configuration, including one or more cam surfaces, pivot mechanisms, springs, etc., operable to alternately position the switch 118 into engagement with different portions of the transmission 112, such as the first and second components 160, 162.

[0074] The operation of the illustrated embodiment will now be discussed in more detail. As explained herein, operation of the input assembly 106 can actuate the first drive section 164, which in turn actuates the second drive section 165 to rotate the drive member 108 coupled thereto. For example, without limitation, each of the first drive section and the second drive section 164, 165 can include an input and an output. In one embodiment, the output of the first drive section 164 can be an input of the second drive section 165 or can operably drive the input, as described below. In these embodiments, the direction control mechanism 110 alternately engages different portions of the transmission 112 (e.g., shared elements of the first drive section and the second drive section 164, 165) to cause the transmission 112 to operate in different ways, the operation mode of the transmission 112, for example, by controlling the rotation of the output of the second drive section 165 after rotating the input of the first drive section 164 to affect the operation mode of the drive member 108 (e.g., rotating in a first direction E, rotating in a second direction R, and / or rotating freely). As explained below, in one embodiment, a first engagement configuration of the converter 118 (e.g., engaging the first lock portion 380) can affect at least a first element of the transmission 112 to cause the drive component 108 to rotate in a first manner. Similarly, a second engagement configuration of the converter 118 with the second lock portion 382 can affect at least a second element of the transmission 112 to cause the drive component 108 to rotate in a second manner. A third engagement configuration of the converter 118 can allow the drive component 108 to rotate freely, for example, by disengaging at least one element of the transmission 112 (e.g., an element shared between the first drive section 164 and the second drive section 165 of the transmission 112).

[0075] In short, during operation of the operating system 100, the input shaft 332 rotates in the first direction E, causing the first sun gear 244 to rotate in the first direction E. What changes is whether the first carrier 248 is locked or whether the ring gear 268 is locked, depending on the position of the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118). If the first carrier 248 is locked, the first set of planetary gears 246 can only rotate about their individual axes and cannot orbit around the first sun gear 244. As described herein, locking the first carrier 248 locks the second sun gear 260. Because the second set of planetary gears 262 and the second carrier 264 are free to rotate, they rotate in the same second direction R. When the ring gear 268 is locked, the first and second sets of planetary gears 246, 262 orbit relative to the ring gear 268 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the gears rotate about their individual axes, such as orbiting in the first direction E while the gears each rotate about their individual axes in the second direction R.

[0076] More specifically, when the cover 102 is positioned in the first position where the cover 102 is fully extended and closed (see Fig.19 ), the operating system 100 can be operated to retract the cover 102, for example, in one non-limiting embodiment, to wrap the cover 102 around the roller tube 136. To retract the cover 102, the converter 118 can be positioned so that the first portion 400 of the converter 118 engages the first component 160 (see Fig.12 ). As described above, to position the converter 118 to engage with the first component 160, the user can bias the drive rope 334 toward the first component 160, such as rearwardly toward the building structure / feature, until the converter 118 engages the first component 160, such as under the bias of the biasing mechanism 438. Once the converter 118 is placed in this first operating position, the first protrusion 404 of the converter 118 can engage the engagement profile 176 of the first component 160 to lock the first component 160 from rotating. For example, the first protrusion 404 can engage the surface of at least one of the protrusions 178 of the first component 160 to lock the first component 160 from rotating in the first direction E.

[0077] Once the converter 118 is engaged with the first component 160, the user can operate the input assembly 106, such as repeatedly actuating the drive rope 334, to rotate the transmission 112 to retract the cover 102. For example, the user can bias the drive rope 334 in a first manner, such as pulling the drive rope 334 downward (e.g., straight down) away from the operating system 100 to cause the spring motor 330 to rotate in the first direction E. As described above, the rotation of the spring motor 330 in the first direction E causes the input shaft 332 to rotate in the first direction E, and the rotation of the input shaft 332 provides an input to the first drive section 164, such as rotating the first sun gear 244 of the first drive section 164 in the same direction as the input shaft 332 (e.g., in the first direction E). As the first sun gear 244 rotates in the first direction E, each gear of the first set of planetary gears 246 rotates in the second direction R about its respective axis. When the first component 160 (which carries the first carrier 248) is fixed to prevent rotation by the converter 118, the first set of planetary gears 246 cannot revolve around the first sun gear 244 (because the first carrier 248 is fixed to prevent rotation), and can only rotate about their individual axes in position in the second direction R when the first sun gear 248 rotates in the first direction E. The rotation of the first set of planetary gears 246 about their individual axes in the second direction R subsequently provides an output of the first drive section 164, such as causing the second component 162 (ring gear 268) to rotate in the second direction R, and the output of the first drive section 164 is operable to affect rotation of another portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., the second drive section 165), as explained below.

[0078] In embodiments having a second drive section 165, rotating the second member 162 (ring gear 268) by the first drive section 164 can provide an input to the second drive section 165, such as rotating the second set of planetary gears 262. In these embodiments, the rotation of the second member 162 in the second direction R causes each gear of the second set of planetary gears 262 to rotate about its respective axis in the second direction R. Because the second sun gear 260 is fixed to prevent rotation by being coupled to the first member 160 (first carrier 248) via the transfer member 252, the rotation of the gears of the second set of planetary gears 262 in the second direction R about their respective axes causes the second set of planetary gears 262 to revolve around the second sun gear 260 in the second direction R, thereby providing an output of the second drive section 165. For example, when the second set of planetary gears 262 revolves around the second sun gear 260 in the second direction R, the second carrier 264 rotates in the second direction R. Through the engagement between the second carriage 264 and the drive member 108, rotation of the second carriage 264 in the second direction R causes the drive member 108 to rotate in the second direction R to retract the covering 102, such as causing the roller tube 136 to rotate in the second direction R in one non-limiting example to wrap the covering 102 around the roller tube 136. The user can continue to operate the drive cord 334, such as alternating between the power stroke and the return stroke discussed above, until the covering 102 is retracted to a desired position relative to the building structure / feature (e.g., fully retracted, partially retracted, etc.). Once in the desired position, the user can release the drive cord 334, at which time the bias provided by the spring motor 330 can retract the drive cord 334 toward the operating system 100 until the stop mechanism 338 of the drive cord 334 is seated against a portion of the end cap 408 (e.g., a lower surface or engagement structure as explained below).

[0079] At any retracted point, the user can manipulate the operating system 100 to deploy the covering 102 across the building structure / feature, for example, by unwinding the covering 102 from the roller tube 136. To deploy the covering 102, the switch 118 can be positioned in its second operating position to disengage the first locking portion 380 (e.g., the first portion 400 of the switch 118 is disengaged from the first member 160) (see Fig.13). As described above, to position the converter 118 in its second operating position, the user can move the drive rope 334 away from the operating system 100, such as away from the building structure / feature, until the converter 118 is positioned in its second operating position, such as under the bias of the biasing mechanism 438. Once placed in the second operating position, the converter 118 is disengaged from the first component 160, and the second protrusion 406 of the converter 118 can be deployed within the second channel portion 394 of the housing 104 to selectively engage the overdrive gear 386 at a specific operating point, as explained below (see Fig.15 ).

[0080] Once the converter 118 is disengaged from the first member 160, the converter 118 may also be disengaged from the overdrive gear 386, allowing the covering 102 to freely fall across the building structure / feature, for example, via the roller tube 136, free to rotate under gravity in the first direction E, without the need to drive and rotate the second carrier 264 to deploy the covering 102. For example, when the converter 118 is disengaged from the first member 160 and the overdrive gear 386, in at least one embodiment, the transmission 112 may be free to rotate to permit the drive member 108 to rotate in the first direction E, thereby unwinding the covering 102 from the roller tube 136 to cover more of the building structure / feature. For example, once the converter 118 is disengaged from the first member 160 and the overdrive gear 386, the first member 160 (first carrier 248) and the second member 162 are free to rotate in the first direction E under the bias provided by the covering 102. For example, when the second component 162 (ring gear 268) rotates in the first direction E, the overdrive gear 386 can move to and rotate within the first channel portion 392 of the housing 104 (see FIG. Fig.15 ). When the converter 118 extends only within the second channel portion 394 of the housing 104 when positioned in the second operating position, the overdrive gear 386 is free to rotate within the first channel portion 392, thereby permitting the second component 162 to rotate freely in the first direction E until (for example) the covering 102 is positioned in its first position, as explained below. Because the first component 160 (first carrier 248) is free to rotate in the first direction E when the converter 118 is positioned in its second operating position, the second sun gear 260 is also free to rotate in the first direction E. Therefore, when the converter 118 is positioned in its second operating position, none of the three major components of the second drive section 165 are locked against rotation, and each of the second sun gear 260, the ring gear 268, and the second carrier 264 can rotate freely in the first direction E to allow the drive component 108 to rotate freely in the first direction E, thereby deploying the covering 102 across the building structure / feature.

[0081] Once the cover 102 is in the first position (i.e., deployed and closed) and the switch 118 is in the second operating position, the user can operate the input assembly 106, such as repeatedly actuating the drive cord 334, to rotate the transmission 112 to open the cover 102. For example, the user can bias the drive cord 334 in a second manner, such as pulling the drive cord 334 downward (e.g., transverse to the plane of the building structure / feature) away from the operating system 100 and away from the building structure / feature. In one embodiment, the drive cord 334 must be pulled away from the cover 102 at a slight angle to maintain the switch 118 in its second operating position to open the cover 102. Otherwise, if the drive cord 334 is pulled straight down, the drive cord 334 may move the switch 118 to its first operating position to retract the cover 102. As described herein, moving the drive rope 334 away from the operating system 100 causes the spring motor 330 to rotate in the first direction E, which in turn causes the input shaft 332 to rotate in the first direction E to provide input to the first drive section 164, such as drivingly rotating the first sun gear 244 in the first direction E. When the first sun gear 244 rotates in the first direction E, each gear of the first set of planetary gears 246 rotates about its respective axis in the second direction R, and the first set of planetary gears 246 rotate about their axes in the second direction R causing the second member 162 (ring gear 268) to rotate in the second direction R. In these embodiments, the second member 162 rotates in the second direction R, such as via the overdrive gear 386 rotating in the first direction E to cause the overdrive gear 386 to move from the first channel portion 392 to the second channel portion 394 for engagement with the converter 118 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.14 Once the converter 118 and the overdrive gear 386 are engaged, the rotation of the overdrive gear 386 in the first direction E may be restricted, thereby restricting the rotation of the second component 162 in the second direction R.

[0082] Once the second member 162 (ring gear 268) is secured against rotation in the second direction R, continued actuation of the input assembly 106 causes the first set of planet gears 246 to orbit or travel around the first sun gear 244 in the first direction E as each of the first set of planet gears 246 rotates about its respective axis in the second direction R after the first sun gear 244 rotates in the first direction E. In these embodiments, the orbiting motion of the first set of planet gears 246 around the first sun gear 244 provides an output of the first drive section 164 to affect rotation of another portion of the transmission 112 (e.g., the second drive section 165), as explained below.

[0083] In an embodiment having a second drive section 165, the orbiting movement of the first set of planetary gears 246 around the first sun gear 244 can provide an input to the second drive section 165. For example, in an embodiment including a transfer member 252 that links the movement of the first set of planetary gears 246 to the second sun gear 260, the orbiting movement of the first set of planetary gears 246 around the first sun gear 244 in the first direction E causes the second sun gear 260 to rotate in the first direction E, thereby causing each gear of the second set of planetary gears 262 to rotate about its respective axis in the second direction R. When the second member 162 (ring gear 268) is fixed to prevent rotation in the second direction R via the converter 118, the rotation of the second set of planetary gears 262 around their respective axes in the second direction R causes the second set of planetary gears 262 to revolve around the second sun gear 260 in the first direction E to provide an output of the second drive section 165. For example, when the second set of planetary gears 262 revolves around the first sun gear 260 in the first direction E, the second carrier 264 rotates in the first direction E. Through the engagement between the second carrier 264 and the drive member 108, the rotation of the second carrier 264 in the first direction E causes the drive member 108 to rotate in the first direction E to open the cover 102, as discussed above, such as rotating the roller tube 136 in the first direction E to open the blades 122 of the cover 102. To provide fine control during the process of opening the cover 102, the transmission 112 can include a relatively high first drive ratio to rotate the drive member 108 in the first direction E. The user can continue to operate the drive cord 334, such as alternating between the power stroke and the reset stroke discussed above, until the cover 102 is opened as desired (e.g., fully opened, partially opened, etc.).

[0084] Moving the cover 102 to the closed configuration can be accomplished in substantially the same manner as discussed above with respect to retracting the cover 102. Specifically, the switch 118 can be positioned in its first operating position such that the first portion 400 of the switch 118 engages the first component 160. Once the switch 118 engages the first component 160, a user can operate the input assembly 106, such as repeatedly actuating the drive rope 334, to cause the drive component 108 to rotate in the second direction R in the same manner as discussed above with respect to retracting the cover 102. For example, a user can bias the drive rope 334 in the first manner discussed above to cause the spring motor 330 and the input shaft 332 to rotate in the first direction E, as detailed above, which causes the drive component 108 to rotate in the second direction R via the transmission 112 and due to the engagement of the switch 118 with the first component 160. When the drive member 108 rotates in the second direction R, the cover 102 can be closed, for example, via the roller tube 136 rotating in the second direction R to close the blades 122 of the cover 102 (as discussed above). The user can continue to operate the drive cord 334, such as alternating between the power stroke and the reset stroke discussed above, until the cover 102 is closed as desired (e.g., fully closed, partially closed, etc.). Once the cover 102 is fully closed, the cover 102 can be retracted as discussed above.

[0085] To mount the operating system 100 to the cover 102, the operating system 100 may be connected to the end cap 408 of the cover 102 (see FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). For example, a plurality of fasteners 412 may be used to secure the housing 104 of the operating system 100, such as the first half 300 of the housing 104, to the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408, although other suitable fastening mechanisms and components are contemplated. The spring motor 330 may be positioned between the end cap 408 and the housing 104, such as within a recess 414 defined in the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408 (see FIG. 4 ). Figure 2 and Figure 7 Once secured, the projection 344 of the spring motor 330 may be rotatably positioned within the protrusion 304 of the housing 104 to, for example, align the spring motor 330 concentrically with the rotation of the transmission 112 (see Figure 7 ).

[0086] In some embodiments, the end cap 408 can facilitate the biased spring motor 330 to rotate in the second direction R. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, a protrusion 436 can extend from the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408 for engagement with the spring motor 330 (see Figure 2). The protrusion 436 can create an anchor point to facilitate biasing the spring motor 330 described above. For example, opposite ends of a biasing member, such as a clock spring 337 or a torsion spring, can be coupled to the protrusion 436 and the spring motor 330, respectively. When the spring motor 330 rotates in the first direction E, the clock spring 337 can be tightened to bias the spring motor 330 to rotate in the second direction R, at least for the purposes explained above.

[0087] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the end cap 408 can be arranged to position the drive rope 334 to be properly aligned with the direction control mechanism 110 (e.g., the converter 118) to facilitate smooth operation of the operating system 100. For example, the end cap 408 can include a guide 420 (e.g., in a loop) extending inwardly from the inner surface 410 of the end cap 408 to define an opening 430 near the bottom portion 432 of the end cap 408 (see Figure 1 In these embodiments, the first portion 400 of the converter 118 can be positioned adjacent to the opening 430, and the drive rope 334 can be routed through the opening 430 (see Fig.13 ). The guide 420 may be sized and shaped such that the opening 430 permits the drive cord 334 to move the converter 118 between operating positions of the converter 118. To provide desired aesthetic characteristics of the operating system 100, the guide 420 may define a lower surface 434 that the stop mechanism 338 of the drive cord 334 engages to define a fully retracted position of the drive cord 334.

[0088] Figure 21 to Figure 24 Additional embodiments of operating systems 600, 1100, or 1600 incorporating overload protection assemblies or mechanisms are described. Except for the following description, operating systems 600, 1100, 1600 are similar to operating system 100 and the above description associated therewith, and the features of operating systems 600, 1100, 1600 discussed below may be added to the embodiments of operating system 100 discussed above, or vice versa. Therefore, in some cases, when in view of the above description and in view of Figure 21 to Figure 24 , similar features will not be discussed when they are obvious to those skilled in the art. For ease of reference, appropriately incremented reference numerals are used to represent similar structures.

[0089] As described above, the operating system 600 may include an overload protection assembly or mechanism, such as a clutch mechanism 460, which is arranged to limit overloading of the transmission 112 (see Fig.21 and Fig. 22). For example, without the use of the clutch mechanism 460, excessive torque loading of the transmission 112 from the input assembly 106 can cause at least partial disengagement of the first and second drive sections 164, 165, at least because the first and second drive sections 164, 165 move and jump teeth too quickly relative to each other, which may damage the transmission 112 and / or produce an unpleasant ratcheting-type sound during operation. As explained below, the clutch mechanism 460 is arranged to slip before the transmission 112 disengages under excessive torque loading.

[0090] exist Fig.21 and Fig. 22 In the embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism 460 includes a spring coupled (e.g., rotatably coupled) to a portion of the second carrier 764, such as a wrap spring 462, but other mechanisms are contemplated, such as those described below with respect to Fig.23 and Fig.24 For example, the second carrier 764 ( Fig.21 ) may include a cylindrical journal 464 extending beyond the end of the second member 662 (see Fig.21 ), the wrap spring 462 is rotatably coupled about the journal 464. In these embodiments, the drive member 608 can be elongated to fit over the journal 464 of the wrap spring 462 and the second carrier 764. As shown, the wrap spring 462 can include a spring body 466 including opposing ends 468, 470 defining first and second tangs 472, 474, respectively. As shown, the first and second tangs 472, 474 extend outwardly away from the spring body 466. The inner diameter of the wrap spring 462 can be less than the outer diameter of the journal 464 to create an interference fit between the spring body 466 of the wrap spring 462 and the journal 464. The interference fit can be configured such that rotation of the second carrier 764 results in a corresponding rotation of the wrap spring 462. As explained below, the interference fit between the second carrier 764 and the wrap spring 462 can be configured to support up to a threshold torque between the two elements. The threshold torque may be between about 8 inch-pounds and about 12 inch-pounds (preferably about 10 inch-pounds), depending on the particular application, such as the particular size, weight, and / or configuration of the cover 102. As explained below, torque loads exceeding the threshold torque may cause the wrap spring 462 to slip relative to the second carrier 764 before the transmission 112 disengages.

[0091] exist Fig. 22In at least one embodiment described in , the wrap spring 462 can be arranged to drivingly rotate the drive member 608. For example, the drive member 608 can include one or more internal ribs 476 that define one or more longitudinal voids 478 within the interior of the drive member 608. In an assembled state, each of the first and second tangs 472, 474 can be positioned within one of the voids 478 so that one of the ribs 476 is positioned between the first and second tangs 472, 474. When the operating system 600 is actuated, the second carrier 764 (see Fig.21 ) can be moved in the first direction E or the second direction R (see Fig.21 ). When rotating in the first direction E, the second carrier 764 may cause the wrap spring 462 to rotate so that the first tang 472 of the wrap spring 462 engages with one side of the rib 476 of the drive member 608, thereby causing the drive member 608 to rotate in the first direction E. Similarly, the rotation of the second carrier 764 in the second direction R may cause the wrap spring 462 to rotate accordingly so that the second tang 474 of the wrap spring 462 engages with the opposite side of the rib 476, thereby causing the drive member 608 to rotate in the second direction R. Because at least one rib 476 is flanked on each side by the first and second tangs 472, 474, the drive member 608 may rotate only after the wrap spring 462 rotates. For example, the first and second tangs 472, 474 on either side of the rib 476 push the rib 476 in either direction to cause the drive member 608 to rotate in either direction.

[0092] The wrap spring 462 can driveably rotate the drive member 608 until an excessive torque load occurs. For example, when the cover 102 is in a fully retracted or closed position, the drive member 608 can be effectively locked from further rotation in the second direction R, for example, via engaging portions of the cover 102 (e.g., a bottom rail that engages an upper end rail), among others. Similarly, when the cover 102 is in a fully deployed or open position, further rotation of the drive member 608 in the first direction E can be limited, for example, via a limit stop or other mechanism. In these embodiments, continued rotation of the second carrier 764 in the second direction R and the first direction E, respectively, can cause a torque load between the second carrier 764 and the wrap spring 462 to exceed a threshold torque supported by the interference fit therebetween. Once the threshold torque is exceeded, the wrap spring 462 slips relative to the second carrier 764 for the purposes explained above.

[0093] In some embodiments, the threshold torque may be adjustable to match the operating system 600 to a particular desired cover 102. For example, without limitation, the clutch mechanism 460 may include an adjustment screw 480 that is adjustably coupled to the second carrier 764, such as threadably coupled to a journal 464 of the second carrier 764 (see Fig.21 ). In these embodiments, the adjustment screw 480 can be arranged to control the outer diameter of the journal 464. For example, rotation of the adjustment screw 480 in one direction may increase the diameter of the journal 464, thereby increasing the threshold torque between the journal 464 and the wrap spring 462 to limit slippage to higher loads. Similarly, rotation of the adjustment screw 480 in the opposite direction may reduce the diameter of the journal 464, thereby reducing the threshold torque between the journal 464 and the wrap spring 462 to allow slippage to occur under lighter loads. Additionally or alternatively, the threshold torque can be adjusted by modification or custom selection of the wrap spring 462. For example, the threshold torque can be adjusted based on the number or size of the outer garments of the spring body 466 positioned around the journal 464.

[0094] Steering Fig.23, the operating system 1100 can be similar to the operating system 600 discussed above to permit a portion of the operating system 1100 to slip before the transmission 112 disengages under excessive torque loads. In one embodiment, the operating system 1100 includes a clutch mechanism 960 having a spring, such as a coil spring 962, coupled to the second carrier 1264, such as via a ratchet mechanism 482 coupled to the drive member 1108. The ratchet mechanism 482 can be slidably coupled to the drive member 1108 and can be selectively moved toward and away from the second carrier 1264. In these embodiments, the spring 962 can be positioned between the drive member 1108 and at least a portion of the ratchet mechanism 482 to bias the ratchet mechanism 482 toward the second carrier 1264. To provide the desired "slippage" of the drive member 1108 relative to the second carrier 1264, each of the second carrier 1264 and the ratchet mechanism 482 can include a plurality of teeth 484, 486, respectively, that matingly engage with each other. Under normal operation, the spring 962 can bias the teeth 484, 486 into engagement, for example, by biasing the ratchet mechanism 482 toward the second carrier 1264. Under excessive loads, such as when the drive member 1108 is effectively locked from rotating, when the second carrier 1264 rotates relative to the ratchet mechanism 482, the rotation of the second carrier 1264 relative to the drive member 1108 causes the ratchet mechanism 482 to move away from the second carrier 1264, for example, by causing the teeth 486 of the ratchet mechanism 482 to climb up the teeth 484 of the second carrier 1264. In some embodiments, the teeth 484, 486 can be biased so that the clutch mechanism 960 will slip only when the second carrier 1264 rotates in one direction (e.g., in the first direction E) relative to the ratchet mechanism 482. As with the clutch mechanism 460 discussed above, the size and shape of the spring 962 can be set to customize the threshold torque at which the second carrier 1264 and the ratchet mechanism 482 slip relative to each other. For example, a harder spring can limit slip to higher loads. In a similar manner, a softer spring can allow slip to occur under lighter loads.

[0095] See also Fig.24, the operating system 1600 can be similar to the operating systems 600 and 1100 discussed above to permit a portion of the operating system 1600 to slip before the transmission 112 disengages under excessive torque loads. Specifically, the operating system 1600 includes a clutch mechanism 1460 having a spring, such as a band-type spring 1462, coupled around the second carrier 1764, such as via a ratchet mechanism 982 coupled to the drive member 1608. The ratchet mechanism 982, which can include a plurality of collet fingers 490, can be resiliently bent relative to the drive member 1608 to selectively expand away from or retract toward the second carrier 1764. In these embodiments, the band-type spring 1462 can be positioned around the collet fingers 490 to bias the collet fingers 490 toward the second carrier 1764. To provide the desired "slippage" of the drive member 1608 relative to the second carrier 1764, each of the second carrier 1764 and the ratchet mechanism 982 (i.e., the collet fingers 490) can include a plurality of teeth 984, 986, respectively, that matingly engage with each other. Under normal operation, the band spring 1462 can bias the teeth 984, 986 into engagement, for example, by biasing the collet fingers 490 toward the second carrier 1764. Under excessive loads, such as when the drive member 1608 is effectively locked against rotation, when the second carrier 1764 rotates relative to the collet fingers 490, the rotation of the second carrier 1764 relative to the drive member 1608 causes the collet fingers 490 to move away from the second carrier 1764, for example, by causing the teeth 986 of the collet fingers 490 to climb up the teeth 984 of the second carrier 1764. In some embodiments, the teeth 984, 986 can be biased so that the clutch mechanism 1460 will slip only when the second carrier 1764 is rotated in one direction (e.g., in the first direction E) relative to the collet fingers 490. The size and shape of the band spring 1462 can be set to customize the threshold torque at which the second carrier 1764 and the ratchet mechanism 982 slip relative to each other. For example, a harder spring can limit slippage to higher loads. In a similar manner, a softer spring can allow slippage to occur under lighter loads. Although in Fig.23 and Fig.24 4 shows that the ratchet mechanism 482, 982 slips only when the second carrier 1264, 1764 rotates in one direction, but the ratchet mechanism 482, 982 and / or the second carrier 1264, 1764 can be arranged so that "slipping" occurs in any rotation direction of the second carrier 1264, 1764. For example, the teeth 484, 486, 984, 986 can be generally symmetrical across the tooth face or width.

[0096] Fig.35An additional embodiment of an operating system 2600 incorporating an overload protection assembly or mechanism is described. Except as described below, the operating system 2600 is similar to the aforementioned operating systems 100, 600, 1100, 1600 and their above-associated descriptions. In addition, the features of the operating system 2600 discussed below can be incorporated into the embodiments of the operating systems 100, 600, 1100, 1600 discussed above, or vice versa. Therefore, in some cases, when in view of the above description and in view of Fig.35 , similar features will not be discussed when they are obvious to those skilled in the art. For ease of reference, appropriately incremented reference numerals are used to represent similar structures.

[0097] As described above, the operating system 2600 may include an overload protection assembly or mechanism, such as a clutch mechanism 2460, which is arranged to limit overloading of the transmission 112 (eg, see Figure 2 ). For example, without the use of the clutch mechanism 2460, excessive torque loads on the transmission 112 applied via the input assembly 106 may cause the first and second drive sections 164, 165 (see, e.g., Figure 2 ), which may damage the transmission 112 and / or produce an unpleasant ratcheting type sound during operation. As explained below, the clutch mechanism 2460 is arranged to slip before the transmission 112 disengages under excessive torque loads, thereby preventing the aforementioned damage and malfunction.

[0098] exist Fig.35 In the embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism 2460 can be in the form of a sliding clutch 2462, which is coupled (e.g., press-fitted) to the second carrier (e.g., the second carrier 264 (e.g., see Figure 2)), but other mechanisms are contemplated. For example, the second carrier 264 can include an opening 2470 formed in one end of the second carrier 264. In these embodiments, the drive component 608 can extend beyond the sliding clutch 2462 and the second carrier 264. As shown, the sliding clutch 2462 can include a first body portion 2464 and a second body portion 2466. A portion of the first body portion 2466 can be sized and configured to be received within the opening 2740 in the second carrier 264. The second body portion 2466 can include a plurality of ridges 2468 formed thereon for coupling (e.g., press-fitting) to the drive component 608. In some embodiments, the ridges 2468 engage correspondingly formed recesses in the drive component 608 or interact with ridges (not shown) located in the opening of the drive component 608 to receive the second body portion 2466 of the sliding clutch 2462.

[0099] In use, the first body portion and the second body portion 2464, 2466 of the sliding clutch 2462 are adapted and configured to rotate together until a threshold torque between the first body portion and the second body portion 2464, 2466 is reached. Therefore, a torque below the threshold torque applied to the second carrier 264 via the input assembly 106 via the sliding clutch 2462 will be transmitted to the drive component 608. Torque loads exceeding the threshold torque may cause the sliding clutch 2462 to slip. That is, a torque load exceeding the threshold torque can cause the first body portion 2464 to rotate independently of the second body portion 2466, and vice versa. Therefore, when the applied torque is below the threshold torque, the torque supplied by the input assembly 106 causes the operating system to rotate, which in turn causes the first body portion and the second body portion 2464, 2466 to rotate in unison, thereby rotating the drive component 608. However, once the threshold torque is reached (e.g., the applied torque is equal to or greater than the threshold torque), the rotation of the operating system is not transmitted to the drive component 608 (e.g., the rotation of the first body portion 2464 of the sliding clutch 2462 is not transmitted to the second body portion 2466 of the sliding clutch).

[0100] More specifically, when the operating system 2600 is actuated, the second carrier 264 may rotate in the first direction E or the second direction R in the same manner as discussed above. When rotating in the first direction E, the second carrier 264 may cause the sliding clutch 2462 (e.g., the first and second body portions 2464, 2466) to rotate, thereby causing the drive component 608 to rotate in the first direction E. Similarly, the rotation of the second carrier 264 in the second direction R may cause the sliding clutch 2462 (e.g., the first and second body portions 2464, 2466) to rotate correspondingly, thereby causing the drive component 608 to rotate in the second direction R. That is, when the supplied torque load is below the threshold torque load, the first and second body portions 2464, 2466 of the sliding clutch 2462 rotate in unison, so that the rotation of the second carrier 264 is transmitted to the drive component 608, and vice versa.

[0101] So arranged, the sliding clutch 2462 (e.g., the first and second body portions 2464, 2466) can drivingly rotate the drive member 608 until an excessive torque load occurs. For example, as previously mentioned, when the cover 102 is in the fully retracted or closed position, the drive member 608 can be effectively locked from further rotation in the second direction R, for example, by engaging portions of the cover 102 (e.g., engaging the bottom rail of the upper end rail), among others. Similarly, when the cover 102 is in the fully deployed or open position, further rotation of the drive member 608 in the first direction E can be limited, for example, via a limit stop or other mechanism. In these cases, actuation of the input assembly 106 by the user can cause the second carriage 264 to rotate in the second direction R or the first direction E, respectively, which can cause the torque load between the first and second body portions 2464, 2466 to exceed the threshold torque supported by the sliding clutch 2462 because the second body portion 2466 will be held stationary by its interaction with the drive member 608. Once the threshold torque is exceeded, the slip clutch 2462 slips (e.g., rotation of the first body portion 2464 is not transmitted to rotation of the second body portion 2466, and vice versa). Therefore, rotation of the second carrier 264 is not transmitted to the drive member 608, and vice versa.

[0102] In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the threshold torque may be approximately 13 inch-pounds, but this may vary depending on the particular application (e.g., the particular size, weight, and / or configuration of the covering). Additionally, by controlling the gear ratio between the slip clutch 2462 and the drive member 608, other aspects of the building structure covering and / or operating system may be controlled, such as speed ratios, mechanical advantage, etc. The slip clutch 2462 may be any slip clutch now known or later developed. In one embodiment, the slip clutch 2462 may be a TI-300 Series Torque Insert provided and sold by Reell Precision Manufacturing Corporation.

[0103] It will be appreciated that at least some of the above-described embodiments allow an operator or user of the described operating system 100 to continue pulling the drive cord 334 with minimal effort (e.g., a single pull) to cause the cover 102 to move to the deployed configuration. In embodiments where the drive cord 334 automatically retracts to an inaccessible position, in some cases, when the operator positions the switch 118 in its second operating position to enable the gravity drop feature of the cover 102 and then releases the contact (e.g., the wand or handle 340), the contact may retract too quickly and may inadvertently move the switch 118 out of its operating position for providing the gravity drop feature and into a position for operating the operating system 100 in another operating mode. According to another separate and independent aspect of the present application, a shift lock feature or mechanism (hereinafter referred to as a "shift lock" for convenience, without intent to be limiting) is provided to maintain the position of the switch 118 or other components of the operating system 100 to shift the operation of the operating system 100 from one operating mode to another. Such a shift lock may be used in conjunction with the above-described operating system 100 to provide a gravity drop feature or other operating system having more than one operating mode. In particular, such a shift lock may be advantageously used with an operating system 100 having an automatically retracting component that may inadvertently move the shifter 118 out of its desired operating position.

[0104] One aspect of the shift lock provides for selective restraint of movement of the switch 118 in at least one of the operating positions of the switch. For example, it may be generally desirable to restrain movement of the switch 118 during movement of the building covering 102 in a desired direction so that the desired movement will be achieved. Specifically, if the operator is to achieve the desired movement with minimal effort, it may be particularly desirable to complete movement of the covering 102 without obstruction after such movement has been initiated. In one embodiment, the shift lock restricts movement of the switch 118 after the switch 118 has been moved to a selected operating position. For example, in an operating system in which the contacts are moved substantially vertically for operation in one mode and the contacts are moved substantially toward the operator (at an angle away from the covering 102) for operation in another mode, the shift lock restrains the switch 118 from remaining in one of the positions, at least until a selected operation of that selected position is completed. For example, as described above, moving the contacts to release the cover 102 to the deployed configuration involves moving the contacts away from the cover 102, and a conversion lock according to the present disclosure can maintain the converter 118 in that position for releasing the cover 102 to the deployed configuration until the cover 102 has been fully deployed.

[0105] According to one aspect of the transfer lock, once the desired constraint of the switch 118 has been achieved, the transfer lock can be released to allow uninhibited or unconstrained movement of the switch 118, or can be moved to another position to constrain the movement of the switch 118 in a different position for a different operating mode. For example, once the covering 102 is deployed across the architectural structure / feature, the transfer lock can be released to allow the switch 118 to be repositioned to another operating position to operate the covering 102 in a different operating mode, such as opening the covering 102 and / or retracting the covering 102, among others. For example, once the covering 102 is deployed a desired amount (e.g., fully deployed, partially deployed, etc.) across the architectural structure / feature, the transfer lock can be released to allow the switch 118 to move from its second operating position to its first operating position. Once the transfer lock is released, the switch 118 can move between its first operating position and its second operating position in an unconstrained manner.

[0106] A conversion lock formed according to the principles of the present disclosure may include a selective bearing having a movable element that moves in a groove or raceway or track (hereinafter referred to as a "groove" for simplicity, without any intention of limitation). In the movement-constrained position, the bearing acts as an obstruction element that is configured to obstruct the movement of the converter so as not to move out of the selected operating position. In one embodiment, the obstruction element is an element that bridges across the converter and another element, such as an element relative to which the converter originally moves (when the obstruction element does not obstruct the movement of the converter), such as an end cap. For example, the obstruction element can be a ball, an annular member, or any other suitable element that is configured to extend between the converter and the end cap to selectively constrain the movement of the converter relative to the end cap.

[0107] The operating element can move the movable element (e.g., automatically) to a constrained position, keeping the converter in this position until the operating element moves in different directions to achieve different operations. For example, a retractable drive rope can pull the movable element to a first position, wherein the movable element constrains the movement of the converter so as not to move out of the deployment mode. The drive rope can move in a second different direction, thereby operating the operating element in a different mode, and can move the conversion lock to a second configuration. In one embodiment, the movement of the drive rope in the second direction can cause the movable element of the conversion lock to move to a second configuration or position. In one embodiment, when the conversion lock is in the second configuration, the converter can move in more than one direction (in contrast to the first configuration described above, in which the converter is limited to a position where the converter allows the operating system to operate in a second operating mode). In an embodiment in which the conversion lock includes a movable element in a track, the track can be configured to allow the movable element to not interfere with the movement of the converter and / or the movement of the drive rope.

[0108] It will be appreciated that if the operator's movement of the drive rope places the obstructing element in the movement-restricting position when the shifter is moved to a position in an operating mode in which the operator may not want to hold the shifter for an extended period of time, but the operator wants the shifter to continue to complete the desired operation after the operator has released the shifter, then the operator of the system having such a shift lock may be completely unaware of the operation of the shift lock. In one embodiment, placing the shift lock in the movement-restricting position after moving the shifter to the accompanying operating mode position may be considered to be substantially automatic. And, in one embodiment, moving the shifter so as to operate in a different operating mode may cause the shift lock to move to a different position without requiring intentional, separate input from the operator.

[0109] Figures 25 to 32An embodiment of an operating system 2100 including a conversion lock feature or mechanism (hereinafter referred to as a "conversion lock" for simplicity and without intent to be limiting) is described. Except for the following description, the operating system 2100 is similar to the operating systems 100, 600, 1100, 1600, 2600 and their associated above descriptions, and the features of the operating system 2100 discussed below can be added to the embodiments of the operating systems 100, 600, 1100, 1600, 2600 discussed above, or vice versa. Therefore, in some cases, when the similar features are obvious to those skilled in the art, the description of similar features will not be discussed. For ease of reference, appropriately incremented reference numerals are used to represent similar structures.

[0110] As mentioned above, in Figures 25 to 32 The operating system 2100 described in the claims includes a shift lock, such as the shift lock assembly 500, which is arranged to limit the unintentional movement of the switch 2118 between its operating positions, such as limiting the unintentional movement of the switch 2118 out of the selected operating position and moving to a different position in which the operating system 2100 operates in a different operating mode. For example, the shift lock can limit the operating system 2100 from being inadvertently converted from an operating mode that does not require user input (e.g., a gravity descent mode) to a mode that requires user input. In one embodiment, the shift lock can limit the switch 2118 from being inadvertently moved to its first operating position from its second operating position during operation of the cover 102. For example, the swinging action of the handle 2340 can cause the switch 2118 to cause the switch 2118 to be inadvertently moved from its second operating position to its first operating position. The swinging action of the handle 2340 can be caused by the user releasing the drive rope 2334 and / or the handle 2340 (accidentally or otherwise) after positioning the switch 2118 in its second operating position (e.g., to implement the gravity descent feature of the cover 102). In some embodiments, the swinging motion of handle 2340 can be augmented by automatic retraction of handle 2340 toward end cap 2408 via spring motor 2330. If it is desired that shifter 2118 be shifted between its operating positions, the user can manipulate shift lock assembly 500 to permit shifter 2118 to be shifted, as explained below.

[0111] See also Figures 25 to 32, the shift lock assembly 500 includes a converter 2118, an end cap 2408, and an obstruction element 510 positioned to engage the converter 2118 and the end cap 2408 in a selectively locked configuration. As described below, the shift lock assembly 500 is operable to limit the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408, such as to limit unintentional conversion of the converter 2118 between its operating positions via the obstruction element 510. For example, the obstruction element 510 can be arranged to provide a selective obstruction between the converter 2118 and the end cap 2408 to selectively limit the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408 (e.g., lateral sliding or pivoting movement of the converter 2118). The obstruction element 510 can take substantially any form or shape, including (without limitation) a spherical surface, a torus (ring-shaped), a cylinder, a polyhedron, etc. To this end, the obstruction element 510 can be a ball bearing, a cylindrical rod, or any other commercial or custom-built component.

[0112] The converter 2118 may include a channel 520 defined in the converter 2118 (see Fig.26 ) to receive at least a portion of the obstruction element 510 (see Fig.30 and Fig.31 ).like Fig.26 As shown in FIG. 24 , the channel 520 can be defined in the first portion 2400 of the converter 2118, for example, adjacent to the first protrusion 2404, but can be defined in other portions of the converter 2118 (e.g., within the second portion 2402). The channel 520 can include a length defined between an upper portion 522 and a lower wall 524 and a lateral width defined between opposing side walls 526. The drive rope 2334 (see FIG. 24 ) can be routed through the channel 520 in the converter 2118. Fig.30 and Fig.31 For example, the drive rope 2334 may be arranged through the upper wall 522, the channel 520, and the lower wall 524 (see Fig.31 In these embodiments, the dimensions of channel 520 can be set to allow obstructing element 510 to move along the length of channel 520 (e.g., between upper portion 522 and lower wall 524) while limiting the movement of obstructing element 510 along the width of channel 520. For example, the width of channel 520 can be sized to closely match the width of obstructing element 510 to limit the movement of obstructing element 510 to only along the length of channel 520.

[0113] As described more fully below, the dimensions of the passage 520 can be set to allow the obstruction element 510 to selectively move therein to selectively restrict the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408. For example, the obstruction element 510 moves to the first position 528 of the passage 520 (see Fig.26) (e.g., movement to a lower portion of channel 520) may permit movement of converter 2118 relative to end cap 2408 (see Fig. 27 and Fig.28 ). Conversely, the obstruction element 510 moves to the second position 530 of the passage 520 (see Fig.26 ) (e.g., movement to the upper portion of the channel 520) can limit the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408 (see Fig.29 ), as described below.

[0114] like Fig.25 2408, for example, in the inner surface 2410 of the end cap 2408 to receive at least a portion of the obstruction element 510 therein. The track 540 may include a first track portion 542 and a second track portion 544. Depending on the particular application, the first and second track portions 542, 544 may extend at various angles relative to each other. In one embodiment, the first and second track portions 542, 544 may be oriented relative to each other to define a wall 546 therebetween. For example, the first and second track portions 542, 544 may extend at an acute angle relative to each other to define a V-shaped track, a U-shaped track, and others, wherein the wall 546 is defined between the first and second track portions 542, 544. As described below, selectively positioning the obstruction element 510 within the first track portion 542 may permit the converter 2118 to move relative to the end cap 2408. Conversely, selectively positioning the obstruction element 510 within the second track portion 544 can limit movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408. In one embodiment, the track 540 can be defined in the inner surface 2410 of the end cap 2408 adjacent to the guide 2420, such as above the opening 2430 defined between the inner surface 2410 and the guide 2420.

[0115] like Fig.31, once the operating system 2100 is assembled for operation, the obstructing element 510 can be at least partially positioned between the converter 2118 and the end cap 2408, e.g., extending between the converter 2118 and the end cap 2408, to selectively inhibit movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408. In a preferred embodiment, the obstructing element 510 is at least partially positioned within the channel 520 defined in the converter 2118 and at least partially positioned within the track 540 defined in the end cap. Various portions of the obstructing element 510 can be positioned within the channel 520 and the track 540. For example, approximately 1 / 2 of the obstructing element 510 can be positioned within the channel 520 and approximately 1 / 2 of the obstructing element 510 can be positioned within the track 540, but other configurations are contemplated. For example, more of the obstructing element 510 can be positioned in one of the channel 520 and the track 540 (e.g., more of the track 540, or vice versa). Additionally or alternatively, less than 1 / 2 of the obstruction element 510 may be positioned within the channel 520, and less than 1 / 2 of the obstruction element 510 may be positioned within the track 540. However, in each of the above embodiments, relative movement, such as relative lateral sliding movement, of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408 may be limited by positioning a portion of the obstruction element 510 within both the channel 520 and the track 540. For example, movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408 may be limited by engagement of the obstruction element 510 with portions of the converter 2118 and the end cap 2408 that define the channel 520 and the track 540, respectively, as described in more detail below.

[0116] The movement of the obstructing element 510 within the track 540 and the channel 520 may be controlled via the drive rope 2334. For example, the drive rope 2334 may be arranged within the channel 520 of the converter 2118 such that movement of the drive rope 2334 causes movement of the obstructing element 510. The drive rope 2334 may move the obstructing element 510 via frictional engagement between the drive rope 2334 and the obstructing element 510. The drive rope 2334 may be arranged to extend adjacent to or through the obstructing element 510 to provide a degree of frictional engagement between the drive rope 2334 and the obstructing element 510. For example, in an embodiment where the obstructing element 510 is a ball bearing, the drive rope 2334 may be arranged to bend around the obstructing element 510 (see FIG. 21 ). Fig.31 In embodiments where the obstructing element 510 is annular (eg, ring-shaped or toroidal), the drive rope 2334 may be routed through the obstructing element 510 (see Fig.33 and Fig.34). In order to increase the frictional engagement between the drive rope 2334 and the obstruction element 510 in the annular embodiment, the obstruction element 510 can be oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the drive rope 2334 so that the drive rope 2334 is passed around the lower portion of the obstruction element 510 and then arranged around the opposite side of the upper portion of the obstruction element 510 to provide the desired frictional engagement between the drive rope 2334 and the obstruction element 510. In each of the embodiments described herein, the frictional engagement between the drive rope 2334 and the obstruction element 510 is sufficient to move the obstruction element 510 in the direction in which the drive rope 2334 moves within the channel 520 when the drive rope 2334 slides or rubs against the surface of the obstruction element 510. For example, the downward movement of the drive rope 2334 causes the obstruction element 510 to move downward. Conversely, the upward movement of the drive rope 2334 causes the obstruction element 510 to move upward.

[0117] In some embodiments, the tolerances between the converter 2118, the drive rope 2334, the obstruction element 510, and the end cap 2408 can be such that an interference fit is created between the components. For example, the dimensions of the channel 520 and the track 540 can be set so that the drive rope 2334 is partially compressed between the converter 2118 and the obstruction element 510. This interference fit between the components can facilitate the obstruction element 510 to remain in a set position without movement of the drive rope 2334, such as in a position that locks the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408, as described more fully below.

[0118] Portions of the track 540 may be sized to reduce the interference fit between the elements. For example, the stop 548 may be formed as part of the first track portion 542 (e.g., formed as a terminal end of the first track portion 542), and the stop 548 may be sized to permit movement of the drive rope 2334 relative to the obstruction element 510 when the obstruction element 510 is positioned within the stop 548 (see FIG. Fig.25 and Fig. 27 ). For example, without limitation, the stop 548 can be sized larger, such as to include a greater depth, width, or area within the inner surface 2410 of the end cap 2408 than other portions of the track 540 to reduce frictional engagement between the obstruction element 510 and the drive cord 2334 when the obstruction element 510 is positioned within the stop 548. This configuration can allow the drive cord 2334 to move substantially freely relative to the obstruction element 510 to limit binding of the drive cord 2334 to the obstruction element 510, which can be beneficial during repeated and highly controlled movement of the covering 102 (e.g., during retraction of the covering 102).

[0119] Now refer to Figure 27 to Figure 29 The operation of the transfer lock assembly 500 is discussed in more detail. Fig. 27 , when the converter 2118 is positioned in its first operating position to allow the cover 102 to be retracted after actuating the drive cord 2334, the obstruction element 510 can be positioned within the first track portion 542, for example, within the stop 548. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the stop 548 provides space for the obstruction element 510 to move when the drive cord 2334 moves up and down to retract the cover 102. For example, the size and shape of the stop 548 can be set to allow the drive cord 2334 to move up and down within the channel 520 of the converter 2118 without being obstructed by the obstruction element 510. The first track portion 542 can extend at a certain angle to the converter 2118 to allow the converter 2118 to be moved from the first operating position (see FIG. 24 ) to the first operating position. Fig. 27 ) moves (converts) to the second operating position (see Fig.28 and Fig.29 ), permitting the blocking element 510 to move within the first track portion 542. For example, the first track portion 542 can be designed to follow an arc angle defined by the blocking element 510 when the switch 2118 moves between its first operating position and its second operating position. In this way, the switch lock assembly 500 can permit the switch 2118 to move freely from its first operating position to its second operating position.

[0120] To move the converter 2118 to its second operating position, the user can, for example, pull the drive cord 2334 away from the operating system 2100 (e.g., toward the user) via the handle 2340, thereby moving the first portion 2400 of the converter 2118 away from the transmission 2112 until the converter 2118 is placed in its second operating position. The movement of the converter 2118 from the first operating position to the second operating position can cause a length of the drive cord 2334 to be pulled through the channel 520, thereby rotating the spring motor 2330 and thereby creating a bias in the spring motor 2330 to retract the length of the drive cord 2334 back through the converter 2118.

[0121] During movement of the switch 2118 to its second operating position, the obstruction element 510 moves from the first track portion 542 to the second track portion 544 of the track 540, wherein the obstruction element 510 is positioned in the first portion 528 of the channel 520 (see Fig.28). The user may then release handle 2340 or otherwise permit drive rope 2334 to move toward spring motor 2330 to retract the length of drive rope 2334 that was pulled through channel 520 during the conversion of converter 2118 from its first operating position to its second operating position through channel 520. Due to the frictional engagement between drive rope 2334 and obstruction element 510, drive rope 2334 retracts through channel 520 under the bias of spring motor 2330, causing obstruction element 510 to move (e.g., upward) from its first position 528 in channel 520 to its second position 530 in channel 520 (see FIG. 2 ). Fig.29 ). As described above, the interference fit between the obstruction element 510 and the drive rope 2334 causes the obstruction element 510 to be maintained in the second position 530 in the channel 520 of the converter 2118 when the drive rope 2334 is retracted, for example, via friction between the obstruction element 510 and the drive rope 2334, which inhibits movement of the obstruction element 510 toward the first position 528 in the channel 520 without corresponding downward movement of the drive rope 2334. When the user cycles the transmission 2112 between the power stroke and the reset stroke to open the cover 102, the obstruction element 510 can move up and down within the second track portion 544 of the end cap 2408 and within the channel 520 of the converter 2118 as the drive rope 2334 moves up and down within the channel 520. Once the converter 2118 is positioned in its second operating position, the channel 520 of the converter 2118 can be aligned (e.g., parallel) with the second track portion 544 of the end cap 2408 to limit the converter 2118 from being inadvertently moved out of its second operating position. In one embodiment, the parallel alignment of the channel 520 with the second track portion 544 can facilitate the up and down movement of the blocking element 510 within the second track portion 544 and the channel 520 when the user moves the drive cord 2334 to open the cover 102 and / or move the converter 2118 to its first operating position, as described below.

[0122] Once the obstruction element 510 is positioned in the second track portion 544 of the end cap 2408 and the second position 530 in the channel 520, the converter 2118 is restricted from moving relative to the end cap 2408 toward its first operating position. Specifically, the restriction wall 546 restricts the movement of the obstruction element 510 in a direction transverse to the channel 520 and the track 540, thereby restricting the movement of the converter 2118 relative to the end cap 2408 (e.g., see Fig.29). For example, the limiting wall 546 can block the obstructing element 510 from moving along the arc of travel of the converter 2118 during movement of the converter 2118 between the second operating position and the first operating position. In this way, when the obstructing element 510 is positioned in the second track portion 544 of the end cap 2408 and the second position 530 in the channel 520, the conversion lock assembly 500 can be operated to limit unintentional conversion of the converter 2118. Therefore, when the cord moves (or is moved) toward the operating system 2100 (e.g., moves upward under the contraction bias of the spring motor 2330), the conversion lock assembly 500 can be operated to limit conversion of the converter 2118. This configuration can be beneficial in preventing conversion of the converter 2118 when the user does not provide input to the operating system 2100 after moving (e.g., clicking) the converter 2118 to its second operating position and traveling away from the covering 102, such as when the covering 102 is gravity-dropped across the building structure / feature.

[0123] To move the converter 2118 to its first operating position, the obstructing element 510 is positioned in the first track portion 542 of the end cap 2408. For example, the user moves the drive rope 2334 toward the operating system 2100 (e.g., away from the user), such as via the handle 2340. In one embodiment, moving the drive rope 2334 to convert the converter 2118 to its first operating position causes a length of the drive rope 2334 to be pulled through the channel 520, thereby moving the obstructing element 510 from its second position 530 in the channel 520 to its first position 528 in the channel 520. Once the obstructing element 510 is positioned in its first position 528 in the channel 520, interference between the obstructing element 510 and the track 540 is reduced or removed (e.g., the obstructing element 510 passes through the restricting wall 546) to permit the obstructing element 510 to move within the first track portion 542. For example, once the obstruction element 510 is positioned in the first portion 528 of the channel 520 via movement of the drive cord 2334, the obstruction element 510 can freely move within the first track portion 542 from the second track portion 544 toward the stop 548 of the first track portion 542 to permit the converter 2118 to move toward its first operating position under the lateral bias of the drive cord 2334 to the converter 2118, thereby guiding the first portion 2400 of the converter 2118 toward the transmission 2112. In this way, when the obstruction element 510 is positioned within the first track portion 542, the converter 2118 can move relative to the end cap 2408. Once the obstruction element 510 is positioned within the stop 548, the drive cord 2334 can move relatively freely within the channel 520 of the converter 2118 when the user cycles the transmission 2112 between the power stroke and the reset stroke to retract the cover 102.

[0124] To constrain the obstruction element 510 from "climbing up" the limiting wall 546 and moving out of the track 540, the end cap 2408 may include a guide 2420 that limits the movement of the converter 2118 (e.g., the end of the converter) away from the inner surface 2410 of the end cap 2408 (see Fig.31 ). For example, the guide member 2420 can be defined as a traction ring (see Fig.30 ) to support the converter 2118 during movement between the first and second operating positions. To support the converter 2118 in each of the first and second operating positions of the converter 2118 (and any positions therebetween), the guide 2420 can be shaped (e.g., arcuate) to match the arc defined by the movement of the end of the converter 2118 between the first and second operating positions.

[0125] The operating system 100, 600, 1100, 1600, 2100 or 2600 and its components can be constructed of substantially any type of material. For example, each of the components of the operating system 100, 600, 1100, 1600, 2100 or 2600 can be constructed or formed of natural and / or synthetic materials (including metals, ceramics, plastics and / or other suitable materials). Plastic materials can include thermoplastic materials (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide or PTFE, among others. The operating system 100, 600, 1100, 1600, 2100 or 2600 can be constructed, formed, molded or non-molded in any suitable manner, such as by insert molding, blow molding, injection molding, milling, etc.

[0126] In one embodiment, an operating system for a building covering is disclosed. The operating system may include: a first drive section, the first drive section including an input; a second drive section, the second drive section including an output; and a directional control mechanism arranged to selectively lock an element that transmits movement between the first drive section and the second drive section to control movement of the output after actuation of the input.

[0127] In one embodiment, the element selectively locked by the directional control mechanism is a shared element of the first drive section and the second drive section.

[0128] The first drive section may include an output, the second drive section includes an input, and the output of the first drive section is the input of the second drive section. In one embodiment, each of the first drive section and the second drive section includes a planetary gear set to control the rotation of the output after the input rotates.

[0129] In one embodiment, the input of the first drive segment is arranged to rotate in one direction, and the output of the second drive segment is arranged to rotate in one of two directions depending on the selective engagement of an element that transmits movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment. Engagement with the element that transmits movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes the output of the second drive segment to rotate in the first direction, and rotation of the output of the second drive segment in the first direction deploys the architectural covering across the architectural feature and opens the architectural covering once deployed. Disengagement of the element that transmits movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment and engagement of the directional control mechanism with another element of at least one of the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes the output of the second drive segment to rotate in the second direction following rotation of the input of the first drive segment.

[0130] In one embodiment, an operating system for a building covering may include: a rotatable drive member configured to engage a covering winding member; a transmission configured to drivingly rotate the drive member; and a converter movable to alternately engage different portions of the transmission to produce more than two operating modes of the operating system. In a first operating mode, the operating system operates to close, retract, or close and retract the covering. In a second operating mode, the operating system operates to allow the covering to be deployed across a building structure or feature. In a third operating mode, the operating system operates to open the covering.

[0131] In one embodiment, alternating engagement of the converter with different portions of the transmission results in different directions of movement of the drive member after actuation of the transmission.

[0132] In one embodiment, the converter includes a first lock portion and a second lock portion, the first lock portion and the second lock portion being configured to alternately engage another portion of the transmission. Engagement of the first lock portion with the first portion of the transmission locks the drive component to prevent rotation in a first direction. Engagement of the second lock portion with another portion of the transmission locks the drive component to prevent rotation in a second direction.

[0133] In one embodiment, the converter pivots about an axis to alternately engage different parts of the transmission.The converter may be releasably maintained in alternate engagement with different parts of the transmission via a biasing mechanism.

[0134] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include an end cap. The biasing mechanism includes a first magnet and a second magnet. The first magnet is fixed to the end cap. The second magnet is associated with a portion of the converter. The first magnet and the second magnet are configured to repel each other to position the converter to alternately engage with the transmission.

[0135] In one embodiment, the transmission includes a first component and a second component. The converter moves to alternately lock the first component and the second component to prevent rotation in at least one direction. In one embodiment, the operating system includes an overdrive gear that engages with the second component to lock the second component to prevent rotation in at least one direction when engaged by the converter. The converter includes a first protrusion that is operable to selectively engage the first component to lock the first component to prevent rotation. The converter includes a second protrusion that is operable to selectively engage the overdrive gear to lock the second component to prevent rotation. The engagement of the converter with the first component locks the drive component to prevent rotation in the first direction. The engagement of the converter with the overdrive gear locks the drive component to prevent rotation in the second direction, and when the converter is positioned for engagement with the overdrive gear, the drive component is free to rotate in the first direction.

[0136] In one embodiment, the transmission includes a first drive section and a second drive section that are operably coupled together but are individually controlled by a converter.

[0137] In one embodiment, the operating system includes an output arranged to drivingly rotate a drive member, and a clutch mechanism that permits the drive member to slip relative to the output after a predetermined torque load is applied to the clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism may include a spring coupled to the output and engageable with the drive member, the spring being arranged to allow the output to move relative to the drive member under the predetermined torque load.

[0138] In one embodiment, the operating system may include an obstruction element coupled to the transducer to selectively restrict movement of the transducer.

[0139] In one embodiment, an operating system for a building covering includes: a transmission device, the transmission device including a first component and a second component; a rotatable drive component, the rotatable drive component is coupled to the transmission device, the drive component is configured to engage with a covering winding component, the covering winding component is operable to expand or retract the building covering after actuating the transmission device, the drive component can rotate in a first direction and a second opposite direction; and a converter, the converter can be moved between two operating positions to alternately engage the first component and the second component to change the rotation of the drive component after actuating the transmission device.

[0140] In one embodiment, the transmission may include a first drive section and a second drive section. The first drive section may include a first sun gear, and a first set of planetary gears are matingly meshed with the first sun gear and carried by a first carrier that positions the first set of planetary gears around the first sun gear. The second drive section may include a second sun gear, and a second set of planetary gears are matingly meshed with the second sun gear and carried by a second carrier that positions the second set of planetary gears around the second sun gear. The operating system may further include an annular gear matingly meshed with both the first set of planetary gears and the second set of planetary gears. The second component may include an annular gear.

[0141] The second sun gear and at least a portion of the first carrier may be operably coupled for rotation together.The first component may include at least a portion of the first carrier.

[0142] In one embodiment, the operating system may include an input shaft operable to driveably rotate the transmission. The input shaft rotates in only one direction. The drive component is driven to rotate in the same direction as the input shaft. The drive component is driven to rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation of the input shaft. The drive component is free to rotate relative to the input shaft.

[0143] In one embodiment, movement of the converter between the operating positions changes the direction of rotation of the drive member upon actuation of the transmission.

[0144] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include an actuating element operable to rotate the transmission. The actuating element selectively moves the converter between the operating positions. The operating system may further include a biasing mechanism that biases the converter to one of the operating positions based on the position of the converter.

[0145] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include an output arranged to driveably rotate the drive member, and a clutch mechanism that permits the drive member to slip relative to the output after a predetermined torque load is applied to the clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism may include: a ratchet mechanism that can selectively engage with the output, the ratchet mechanism permitting selective movement of the output relative to the ratchet mechanism; and a spring that biases the ratchet mechanism into engagement with the output.

[0146] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include an obstruction element coupled to the switch to selectively restrict movement of the switch between two operating positions.

[0147] In one embodiment, a covering for a building structure or feature for use with an operating system is disclosed. The covering includes a roller tube coupled to a drive member, and a shield mounted on the roller tube, the shield being movable between an extended position and a retracted position upon rotation of the drive member.

[0148] In one embodiment, when the converter is coupled to the first component, the actuation transmission rotates the drive component in the second direction to retract the covering, and when the converter is coupled to the second component, the actuation transmission rotates the drive component in the first direction to deploy the covering across the architectural structure or feature.

[0149] The converter may be coupled to a second component, the drive component being free to rotate in a first direction.

[0150] In one embodiment, a method of operating a covering for an architectural structure or feature is disclosed. The method includes: alternately engaging a first component and a second component of an operating system via a switch to rotatably inhibit rotation of the first component or the second component; when the switch is engaged to the second component, actuating a transmission device to allow rotation of an output of the operating system in a first direction to deploy the covering across the architectural structure or feature; when the switch is engaged to the second component, actuating the transmission device to rotate the output of the operating system in the first direction to open the covering; and when the switch is engaged to the first component, actuating the transmission device to rotate the output of the operating system in the second direction to close, retract, or close and retract the covering.

[0151] In one embodiment, the method may include rotatably driving the drive member via a transmission. The transmission may be rotatably driven by an input shaft. Rotation of the input shaft may be limited to only one direction of rotation.

[0152] In one embodiment, the converter is engaged to an engagement profile on an outer periphery of the first component, the engagement profile providing resistance to rotation of the first component in a first direction when engaged by the converter.

[0153] In one embodiment, the method may further include matingly engaging the converter to the second component via an overdrive gear, the overdrive gear providing resistance to rotation of the second component in the second direction when engaged by the converter.

[0154] In one embodiment, the method may further include selectively inhibiting movement of the transducer via an obstructing element coupled to the transducer.

[0155] In one embodiment, a method of operating a covering of an architectural structure or feature using an operating system is disclosed. The method may include: operating the operating system in a first manner to retract the covering across the architectural structure or feature; operating the operating system in a second manner to deploy the covering across the architectural structure or feature; and operating the operating system in a third manner to open, change, or reconfigure the covering so as to allow viewing through the covering when the covering is in the deployed configuration. For example, in one embodiment, through the third manner, the operating system may change the covering or shielding material between a closed configuration, in which a portion of the covering or shielding material is operated to block viewing through the covering or shielding material, and an open configuration, in which a portion of the shielding material is operated to allow viewing through the covering or shielding material.

[0156] In one embodiment, operating the operating system in a first manner includes rotating an input of the operating system in a first direction to rotate an output of the operating system in a second direction, operating the operating system in a second manner includes allowing an output of the operating system to rotate in the first direction while fixing an input of the operating system to prevent rotation, and operating the operating system in a third manner includes rotating an input of the operating system in a first direction to rotate an output of the operating system in the first direction.

[0157] In one embodiment, operating the operating system in a first manner includes drivingly rotating a covering that is closed and / or retracted via a retractable rope mechanism, operating the operating system in a second manner includes allowing the covering to be gravity-dropped across a building structure or feature, and operating the operating system in a third manner includes drivingly rotating a covering that is opened via a retractable rope mechanism.

[0158] In one embodiment, the second and third modes rotate the shield in a first direction, and the first mode rotates the shield in an opposite second direction.Switching between the first, second and third modes may be performed using a switch.

[0159] In one embodiment, operating the operating system includes drivingly rotating a portion of the operating system using a planetary gear system. The second mode includes allowing a covering to freely fall across a building structure or feature. The planetary gear system provides a first drive ratio to operate the operating system in a third mode. The planetary gear system can provide a second drive ratio to operate the operating system in a first mode, the second drive ratio being different from the first drive ratio.

[0160] In one embodiment, a method of operating a building covering is disclosed. The method includes: rotating a first drive segment via an input; rotating a second drive segment via an output of the first drive segment; rotating a drive member via an output of the second drive segment, the drive member being arranged to control movement of the building covering; and selectively controlling one or more selective engagements of the first drive segment and the second drive segment to control movement of the drive member.

[0161] Selectively controlling one or more selective engagements of the first drive segment and the second drive segment to control movement of the drive member includes selectively engaging the first drive segment and the second drive segment via a converter.

[0162] In one embodiment, the method may further include selectively locking an element that transfers movement between the first drive section and the second drive section via a converter to selectively control rotation of the drive component.

[0163] The method may further include: operating the drive rope to provide an input force to the first drive section and the second drive section. Operating the drive rope in a first manner to close, retract, or close and retract a shelter material of the building covering, and operating the drive rope in a second manner to open the shelter material. Operating the drive rope in the first manner includes pulling the drive rope straight down. Operating the drive rope in the second manner includes pulling the drive rope away from a building structure or feature to which the building covering is attached.

[0164] In one embodiment, a method of operating a building covering is disclosed. The method includes rotating an output of a transmission in a first direction to at least partially deploy the covering across a building structure or feature, and once the covering is in a deployed position, rotating an output of the transmission in the first direction to move the covering to an open configuration, wherein the covering moves to the open configuration via a slower adjustment than deploying the covering under the same amount of force.

[0165] In one embodiment, an operating system for an architectural covering is disclosed. The operating system includes an input shaft that rotates only in a first direction, and a drive component that rotates in one of at least three modes. The at least three modes include being driven in the first direction, being driven in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and freely rotating relative to the input shaft.

[0166] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include a transmission. The transmission may include a first drive section and a second drive section. The first drive section may be coupled to the second drive section such that rotation of a first element of the first drive section rotates the first element of the second drive section, and locking the first element of the first drive section locks the first element of the second drive section from rotation. Rotation of the second element of the first drive section may rotate the second element of the second drive section, and locking the second element of the first drive section locks the second element of the second drive section from rotation.

[0167] In one embodiment, an operating system for a building covering is disclosed. The operating system includes: a transmission for rotating a covering winding member; a converter movable to alternately engage different portions of the transmission to affect operation of the transmission, the converter movable between a first operating position and a second operating position; and an obstruction element adapted to selectively constrain movement of the converter to remain in one of the first operating position and the second operating position. The obstruction element may be movably received within the converter.

[0168] In one embodiment, a channel may be defined within a portion of the transducer, a track may be defined within a portion of an end cap of the building covering, and an obstructing element may be movable within the channel and the track to selectively constrain movement of the transducer relative to the end cap. The channel and the track are sized to receive at least a portion of the obstructing element therein.

[0169] In one embodiment, the obstructing element is movable between a first position, in which movement of the converter between the first operating position and the second operating position is permitted, and a second position, in which movement of the converter from one of the first operating position and the second operating position is restricted. When the obstructing element is positioned in the second position, the converter can be positioned in the second operating position, and the obstructing element restricts the converter from moving to the first operating position.

[0170] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include a drive rope for operating the transmission device, and the movement of the blocking element within the track and within the channel is controlled via the drive rope.

[0171] In one embodiment, an operating system for a building covering is disclosed. The operating system includes: a switch movable between a first operating position for actuating the operating system to effect movement of the covering in a first manner and a second operating position for actuating the operating system to effect movement of the covering in a second manner; and a shift lock operable to constrain movement of the switch in the second operating position during movement of the covering in the second manner.

[0172] In one embodiment, the first operating position is different from the second operating position.

[0173] The conversion lock may be operable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first configuration constraining movement of the converter in the second operating position. The conversion lock may include a movable element that can move between a first track in the first configuration and a second track in the second configuration, when the conversion lock is in the first configuration, the movable element is limited to moving only in the first track to keep the converter in the second operating position, and when the movable element is in the second track, the movable element allows the converter to move. The second track may include a stop, and when the conversion lock is in the second configuration, the movable element is placed in the stop. The converter may include a channel formed therein, the movable element is placed in the channel of the converter and the first track of the conversion lock to inhibit movement of the converter, and the movable element is placed in the channel in the converter and the second track of the conversion lock to allow the converter to move. The first track and the second track of the conversion lock are formed in an end cap to which the operating element is coupled. The operating system may further include a retractable drive rope extending through the channel in the converter, and when the converter is in the second operating position and the drive rope is retracted, the retractable drive rope moves the movable element into the first track of the conversion lock. The movable element is arranged in the stop portion, and the frictional engagement between the movable element and the drive rope is reduced. When the converter moves to the first operating position, the retractable drive rope moves the movable element into the second track of the conversion lock.

[0174] In one embodiment, the movable element is a ball.

[0175] In one embodiment, the operating system may include a transmission including a first drive section and a second drive section, the operating system being operable between a first transmission position operating the first drive section and a second transmission position operating the second drive section, and the converter is disengaged from the first drive section and the second drive section when the converter is in the second operating position, and the converter is engaged with one of the first drive section and the second drive section when the converter is in the first operating position. The operating system may release the building covering to the deployed position after the converter is moved to the second operating position, such that no further action other than moving the converter to the second operating position is required to move the building covering from the retracted position to the deployed position.

[0176] In one embodiment, the operating system may further include a slip clutch operatively coupled to the transmission and the rotatable drive member to prevent excessive torque from being transmitted between the transmission and the rotatable drive member.

[0177] In one embodiment, a method of operating a covering of an architectural structure or feature using an operating system is disclosed. The method may include: operating the operating system in a first manner to retract the covering across the architectural structure or feature via driven rotation of the covering closed and / or retracting the covering via a retractable cord mechanism; operating the operating system in a second manner to deploy the covering across the architectural structure or feature via permitting the covering to gravity drop across the architectural structure or feature; and operating the operating system in a third manner to open, alter, or reconfigure the covering to allow viewing through the covering when the covering is in an deployed configuration via driven rotation of the covering opened via a retractable cord mechanism.

[0178] The foregoing description has wide application. It will be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to many types of screens, in addition to the roller blinds described and depicted herein. Similarly, it will be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to many types of operating systems, in addition to the operating system 100 described and depicted herein. For example, the concepts can be equally applied to any type of covering having a screen element that can move across a building structure / feature. The discussion of any embodiment is intended to be illustrative only, and is not intended to imply that the scope of the present disclosure (including the claims) is limited to these embodiments. In other words, although the illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail herein, it will be understood that the inventive concepts may be differently embodied and employed in other ways, and the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

[0179] The foregoing discussion has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description, and is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the forms disclosed herein. For example, in order to simplify the present disclosure, the various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments or configurations. However, it should be understood that the various features of certain aspects, embodiments or configurations of the present disclosure can be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments or configurations. In addition, the attached claims are incorporated herein by reference into this detailed description, wherein each claim itself serves as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] As used herein, phrases "at least one", "one or more" and "and / or" are open expressions that are connected and separated in operation. As used herein, the term "one" entity refers to one or more of that entity. Therefore, the terms "one", "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, horizontal, longitudinal, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to assist readers in understanding the present disclosure, and are not particularly limited to the position, orientation or use of the present disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection and engagement) will be interpreted in a broad sense, and may include intermediate components between element sets and relative movement between elements, unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, connection references do not necessarily draw inferences that two elements are directly connected and are in a fixed relationship to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, auxiliary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, orders, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings may vary.

Claims

1. An operating system for building coverings, the operating system comprising: Input assembly; a first drive section providing an input, the first drive section comprising a first carrier, a first sun gear, and a first set of planetary gears, the first set of planetary gears matingly meshing with the first sun gear and carried by the first carrier, and the first carrier positioning the first set of planetary gears around the first sun gear; a second drive section providing an output, the second drive section comprising a second carrier, a second sun gear, and a second set of planetary gears, the second set of planetary gears matingly meshing with the second sun gear and carried by the second carrier, and the second carrier positioning the second set of planetary gears around the second sun gear; a ring gear shared by the first drive section and the second drive section, the ring gear matingly meshing with both the first set of planetary gears and the second set of planetary gears; as well as a directional control mechanism arranged to selectively lock an element transmitting movement between the first drive section and the second drive section to control movement of the output following actuation of the input; wherein the element selectively locked by the direction control mechanism is the ring gear, and Wherein each of the first drive section and the second drive section includes a planetary gear set for controlling rotation of the output subsequent to rotation of the input.

2. The operating system of claim 1, wherein: The first drive section provides an output; The second drive section provides an input; and The output of the first driver section provides the input of the second driver section.

3. An operating system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein: The input of the first drive section is arranged to rotate in one direction; and The output of the second drive section is arranged to rotate in one of two directions dependent upon the selective engagement of the element transferring movement between the first drive section and the second drive section.

4. The operating system of claim 3, wherein: engagement with the element transferring movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes an output of the second drive segment to rotate in a first direction; and Rotation of the output of the second drive section in the first direction deploys the building covering across the building structure and opens the building covering once deployed.

5. An operating system as described in claim 3, wherein disengagement from the element that transmits movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment and engagement of the direction control mechanism with another element of at least one of the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes the output of the second drive segment to rotate in a second direction after the input of the first drive segment rotates.

6. A method of operating a building covering, the method comprising: an actuation input assembly; rotating a first drive section via an input, the first drive section comprising a first carrier, a first sun gear, and a first set of planet gears, the first set of planet gears matingly meshing with the first sun gear and carried by the first carrier, and the first carrier positioning the first set of planet gears around the first sun gear; rotating a second drive section via an output of the first drive section, the second drive section comprising a second carrier, a second sun gear, and a second set of planetary gears, the second set of planetary gears matingly meshing with the second sun gear and carried by the second carrier, and the second carrier positioning the second set of planetary gears around the second sun gear; wherein both the first set of planetary gears and the second set of planetary gears are matingly meshed with a ring gear; rotating a drive member via an output of the second drive section, the drive member being arranged to control movement of the building covering; selectively controlling one or more selective engagements of the first drive segment and the second drive segment to control movement of the drive member; as well as selectively locking an element transmitting movement between the first drive section and the second drive section via a converter to selectively control rotation of the drive member; wherein the element selectively locked by the converter is the ring gear, and Wherein each of the first drive section and the second drive section includes a planetary gear set for controlling rotation of the output subsequent to rotation of the input.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the selectively controlling step includes selectively engaging the first drive section and the second drive section via a switch.

8. The method of any one of claims 6 to 7, further comprising operating a drive rope to provide an input force to the first drive section and the second drive section.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising: operating the drive cord in a first manner to close or retract or both close and retract a screen material of the building covering; as well as The drive cord is operated in a second manner to open the screen material.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein: Operating the drive cord in the first manner includes pulling the drive cord straight down; and Operating the drive rope in the second manner includes pulling the drive rope away from the building structure to which the building covering is attached.

11. A building covering comprising: Covering wrapped around components; a cover coupled to the cover wrapping member, the cover movable between an extended position and a retracted position; as well as An operating system, the operating system comprising: Input assembly; a first drive section providing an input, the first drive section comprising a first carrier, a first sun gear, and a first set of planetary gears, the first set of planetary gears matingly meshing with the first sun gear and carried by the first carrier, and the first carrier positioning the first set of planetary gears around the first sun gear; a second drive section providing an output, the second drive section comprising a second carrier, a second sun gear, and a second set of planetary gears, the second set of planetary gears matingly meshing with the second sun gear and carried by the second carrier, and the second carrier positioning the second set of planetary gears around the second sun gear; a ring gear shared by the first drive section and the second drive section, the ring gear matingly meshing with both the first set of planetary gears and the second set of planetary gears; and a directional control mechanism arranged to selectively lock an element transmitting movement between the first drive section and the second drive section to control movement of the output following actuation of the input; wherein the element selectively locked by the direction control mechanism is the ring gear, and Wherein each of the first drive section and the second drive section includes a planetary gear set for controlling rotation of the output subsequent to rotation of the input.

12. The building covering of claim 11, wherein: The first drive section provides an output; The second drive section provides an input; and The output of the first driver section provides the input of the second driver section.

13. The building covering of claim 11, wherein: The input of the first drive section is arranged to rotate in one direction; and The output of the second drive section is arranged to rotate in one of two directions dependent upon the selective engagement of the element transferring movement between the first drive section and the second drive section.

14. The building covering of claim 13, wherein: engagement with the element transferring movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes an output of the second drive segment to rotate in a first direction; and Rotation of the output of the second drive section in the first direction deploys the building covering across the building structure and opens the building covering once deployed.

15. The building covering of claim 14, wherein disengagement from the element that transmits movement between the first drive segment and the second drive segment and engagement of the directional control mechanism with another element of at least one of the first drive segment and the second drive segment causes the output of the second drive segment to rotate in a second direction following rotation of the input of the first drive segment.

16. The building covering of claim 11, wherein: The output is arranged to drivingly rotate the drive member, the operating system further comprising: A clutch mechanism permits the drive member to slip relative to the output upon application of a predetermined torque load to the clutch mechanism.

17. The building covering of claim 16, wherein the clutch mechanism includes a spring coupled to the output and engageable with the drive member, the spring being arranged to allow the output to move relative to the drive member under a predetermined torque load.

18. The building covering of claim 16, wherein the clutch mechanism comprises a slip clutch coupled to and engageable with the drive member, the slip clutch being arranged to allow the output to move relative to the drive member at or under a predetermined torque load.

19. The building covering of claim 18, wherein the slip clutch comprises a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being adapted and configurable to: (i) rotate in unison when the applied torque is below the predetermined torque load such that the applied torque is transferred from the operating system to the drive component via the slip clutch, and (ii) decouple when the applied torque is above the predetermined torque load such that the applied torque is not transferred from the operating system to the drive component via the slip clutch.

20. The building covering of claim 19, wherein the output includes an opening formed in an end thereof, the opening being arranged and configured to receive a portion of the first body portion of the slip clutch.

21. The building covering of claim 19, wherein the second body portion of the slip clutch includes a plurality of ridges formed thereon for coupling to the drive member.

22. The building covering of claim 11, further comprising: a rotational drive member coupled to an output of the second drive section of the operating system, the drive member configured to engage the cover winding member, the drive member being rotatable in a first direction and an opposite second direction; in: The direction control mechanism is a converter; as well as The converter moves between two operating positions to alternately engage the first carrier and the ring gear to change the rotation of the drive member after actuation of the operating system.

23. The building covering of claim 22, wherein moving the switch to alternately engage the first carrier and the ring gear results in more than two operating modes of the operating system.

24. The building covering of claim 23, wherein: In a first operating mode, the operating system operates to close, retract, or close and retract the cover; as well as In a second mode of operation, the operating system operates to allow the covering to be deployed across the building structure.

25. The building covering of claim 24, wherein in a third operating mode, the operating system operates to open the covering.

26. The building covering of claim 22, wherein alternating engagement of the converter with the first carrier and the ring gear results in different directions of movement of the drive member upon actuation of the operating system.

27. The building covering of claim 22, wherein: a converter including a first lock portion and a second lock portion configured to alternately engage the first carrier and the ring gear; Engagement of the first locking portion with the first carrier locks the drive member against rotation in a first direction; as well as Engagement of the second lock portion with the ring gear locks the drive member from rotating in a second direction.

28. The building covering of claim 22, wherein the converter pivots about an axis to alternately engage the first carrier and the ring gear.

29. The building covering of claim 22, wherein the converter is releasably retained in alternating engagement with the first carrier and the ring gear via a biasing mechanism.

30. The building covering of claim 29, further comprising end caps, wherein: The biasing mechanism includes a first magnet and a second magnet; The first magnet is fixed to the end cap; the second magnet being associated with a portion of the transducer; as well as The first magnet and the second magnet are configured to repel each other to position the converter to alternately mesh with the first carrier and the ring gear.

31. The building covering of claim 22 further comprising an overdrive gear matingly engaged with the ring gear to lock the ring gear against rotation in at least one direction when engaged by the converter.

32. The building covering of claim 31, wherein: The converter includes a first protrusion operable to selectively engage the first carrier to lock the first carrier against rotation; as well as The converter includes a second protrusion operable to selectively engage the overdrive gear to lock the ring gear against rotation.

33. The building covering of claim 32, wherein: Engagement of the converter with the first carrier locks the drive member against rotation in a first direction; and Engagement of the converter with the overdrive gear locks the drive member from rotation in the second direction, and the drive member is free to rotate in the first direction when the converter is positioned for engagement with the overdrive gear.

34. The building covering of claim 22, wherein: An obstruction element is included that is coupled to the transducer to selectively restrict movement of the transducer.

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