Battery-powered electric curtain

Abstract

A motorized curtain (100) includes a reel tube (110), a flexible material (120), a motor drive unit (190), and a mounting bracket (130). The motor drive unit (190) includes a housing (180) defining a cavity (181) that receives the motor (190) and one or more batteries (170) for powering the motor drive unit (190). The motor driving unit includes a printed circuit board (192) on which a control circuit is mounted. The control circuit includes a switch (360). The motor drive unit (190) includes an actuation member (300) configured to convert a first force applied in a first direction at an end portion of the motor drive unit (190) to a second force in a second direction within the cavity of the housing to actuate the switch (360).

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 395,504, filed on August 5, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] A curtain may be mounted in front of one or more windows, for example, to block sunlight from entering the space and / or to provide privacy. The curtain may include, for example, a roller blind, a Roman blind, a Venetian blind, or a drapery. A roller blind typically includes a flexible blackout fabric wound around an elongated roller tube. Such a roller blind may include a weighted swing rod at the lower end of the blackout fabric. The swing rod may allow the blackout fabric to be suspended in front of the one or more windows on which the roller blind is mounted.

[0004] A typical window covering can be mounted to a structure around a window, such as a window frame. Such a window covering can include brackets located at opposite ends thereof. The brackets can be configured to operably support a roller tube so that the flexible material can be raised and lowered. For example, the brackets can be configured to support respective ends of the roller tube. The brackets can be attached to a structure, such as a wall, ceiling, window frame, or other structure.

[0005] Such a curtain may be electric. An electric curtain may include a roller tube, a motor, a bracket, and wires. The components of the electric curtain (such as the bracket, roller tube, wires, etc.) may be hidden by a trim or mounted in an invisible cavity. However, it may be desirable to install the curtain without a trim and / or outside the cavity. In such an electric curtain, one or more components may be exposed so that they are visible. It may be desirable to configure the electric curtain so that the exposed components are hidden in other ways, for example, without using a trim. It may also be desirable to configure the exposed components to have certain functionality and aesthetics. Summary of the invention

[0006] As described herein, an electric window shade may include a roller tube, a flexible material, a motor drive unit (e.g., a drive assembly), and a mounting bracket. The roller tube is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis defining a longitudinal direction. The flexible material may be attached to the roller tube. The flexible material can be operated between a raised position and a lowered position via rotation of the roller tube. The motor drive unit may be located within the roller tube. The motor drive unit may include a housing defining a cavity that receives a motor and one or more batteries for powering the motor drive unit. The motor drive unit may be configured to rotate the roller tube to adjust the flexible material between a raised position and a lowered position.

[0007] The motor drive unit may include a printed circuit board on which a control circuit is mounted. The control circuit may include a switch. The motor drive unit may include an actuating member configured to convert a first force applied in a first direction at an end portion of the motor drive unit into a second force in a second direction within a cavity of the housing. The first direction may be a longitudinal direction, and the second direction may be a transverse direction. The transverse direction may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch. The actuating member may include an elongated portion, a flexible member, and / or a plurality of feet. The flexible member may define an actuating protrusion configured to actuate the switch. The actuating protrusion may be configured to move in a transverse direction as the elongated portion moves in the longitudinal direction. The flexible member may be configured to press against an inner surface of the cavity, for example, to bias the actuating protrusion toward the switch. The flexible member may define an axis configured to be held by a lug on the inner surface. The axis may be configured to rotate so that the actuating protrusion can move in a transverse direction. The flexible member may be v-shaped, having a first portion defining an axis and a second portion extending from the elongated portion.

[0008] The elongated portion may include a light pipe portion configured to extend proximate to a light source mounted to a printed circuit board. The light pipe portion may be curved to transmit light emitted by the light source on the printed circuit board to an end portion of the motor drive unit. The elongated portion may be translucent. A plurality of feet may extend from the elongated portion. The plurality of feet may be configured to secure the actuating member within the cavity. The housing may include a plurality of recesses defining one or more holes extending from the cavity to an outer surface of the housing. Each of the holes may be configured to receive a corresponding one of the plurality of feet. The plurality of recesses may be configured to enable each of the plurality of feet to translate in a corresponding recess of the plurality of recesses in a longitudinal direction. Each of the plurality of recesses may define a length that limits the distance that the elongated portion can translate in a longitudinal direction within the cavity.

[0009] As described herein, an electric window shade may include a roller tube, a flexible material, a motor drive unit, and a mounting bracket. The roller tube is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis defining a longitudinal direction. The flexible material may be attached to the roller tube. The flexible material can be operated between a raised position and a lowered position via rotation of the roller tube. The motor drive unit may be located within the roller tube. The motor drive unit may include a housing that houses a motor and one or more batteries for powering the motor drive unit. The motor drive unit may be configured to rotate the roller tube to adjust the flexible material between a raised position and a lowered position.

[0010] The housing may include a buckle extending from a buckle arm in a longitudinal direction. The buckle may include a first inclined surface and a first vertical surface. The mounting bracket may be configured to rotatably support the end of the roller tube and mount the electric curtain to a structure around the window. The mounting bracket may include a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion may be configured to be attached to the structure around the window. The movable portion may be configured to receive an end portion of the housing. The movable portion may include a lock configured to engage with the buckle, for example, to prevent the motor drive unit from disengaging from the first mounting bracket. The lock may include a second inclined surface and a second vertical surface. The lock may include a second inclined surface and a second vertical surface. The first inclined surface of the buckle may abut the second inclined surface of the lock as the motor drive unit translates toward the first mounting bracket. As the motor drive unit further translates in the longitudinal direction, the lock may apply a force on the buckle in a transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, for example, causing the buckle arm to flex in a transverse direction so that the buckle can move into a cavity defined by the housing of the motor drive unit. As the motor drive unit further translates in the longitudinal direction, the first inclined surface of the buckle may extend beyond the second inclined surface of the lock, so that the first inclined surface is not adjacent to the second inclined surface. When the first inclined surface of the buckle extends beyond the second inclined surface of the lock, the buckle can be configured to return to its original position relative to the housing. The first vertical surface of the buckle can be configured to abut the second vertical surface of the lock, for example, to prevent the motor drive unit from disengaging from the first mounting bracket. The first vertical surface of the buckle can be configured to abut the second vertical surface of the lock when the motor drive unit moves toward the second mounting bracket in the longitudinal direction.

[0011] The movable portion may be configured to operate the electric window shade between an operating position and an extended position. When the electric window shade is in the extended position, a portion of the motor drive unit may be accessible. The electric window shade may include a battery holder configured to hold one or more batteries. The battery holder may be configured to be received in a cavity of the housing. When the battery holder is removed from the motor drive unit, the snap arm may be configured to flex into the cavity. When the snap returns to its original position relative to the housing, the cavity may be configured to receive the battery holder. The electric window shade may include a second mounting bracket configured to rotatably support opposite ends of the roller tube. The second mounting bracket may be configured to be attached to a structure surrounding the window. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary motorized window covering with a roller tube in an operating position.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary motorized window shade is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of an exemplary motorized window shade is shown.

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an extended position.

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partially exploded view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with a battery holder removed from a housing of a motor drive unit of the motorized window covering.

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an operating position.

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A left side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an operating position.

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A right side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an operating position.

[0020] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 Another left side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an extended position.

[0021] Fig.10 yes Figure 1 Another right side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering is shown with the roller tube in an extended position.

[0022] Fig.11 is a perspective view of an exemplary mounting bracket with a pivoting portion aligned with a fixed portion.

[0023] Fig.12 is a perspective view of another exemplary mounting bracket in which a pivoting portion is aligned with a fixed portion.

[0024] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 A perspective view of an exemplary mounting bracket is shown with the pivot portion pivoted away from the fixed portion.

[0025] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A perspective view of an exemplary mounting bracket is shown with the pivot portion pivoted away from the fixed portion.

[0026] Fig.15 and Fig.16 yes Figure 1Left side view of a motorized window shade shown in , with the movable portion separated from the fixed portion of the mounting bracket.

[0027] Figures 17 to 20 is a partial front cross-sectional view of an electric window shade taken through the center of the roller tube.

[0028] Fig.21 yes Figure 1 A top perspective view of a motor drive unit for an electric window shade.

[0029] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 An enlarged perspective view of an end portion of a motor drive unit.

[0030] Fig.23 yes Fig.21 Bottom perspective view of the motor drive unit.

[0031] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A partial enlarged view of the perspective view.

[0032] Fig.25A is taken through the center of an exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0033] Fig.25B yes Fig.25A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0034] Fig.26 yes Fig.21 Exploded view of the motor drive unit.

[0035] Fig. 27 yes Fig.21 Top view of the motor drive unit.

[0036] Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 A partial enlarged view of the top view.

[0037] Fig.29 yes Fig.26 A perspective view of an actuating member of a motor drive unit.

[0038] Fig.30 yes Fig.26 Top view of the actuating member of the motor drive unit.

[0039] Fig.31 yes Fig.26 Front view of the actuating member of the motor drive unit.

[0040] Fig.32 yes Fig.26Left side view of the actuating member of the motor drive unit.

[0041] Fig.33 yes Fig.26 Right side view of the actuating member of the motor drive unit.

[0042] Fig.34A is taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0043] Fig.34B yes Fig.34A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0044] Fig.35A is taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0045] Fig.35B yes Fig.35A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0046] Fig.36A is taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0047] Fig.36B yes Fig.36A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0048] Fig.37A is taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0049] Fig.37B yes Fig.37A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0050] Fig.38A is taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member of a motor drive unit Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain.

[0051] Fig.38B yes Fig.38A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0052] Fig.39 It is a simplified block diagram of the motor drive unit of the electric curtain. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figures 1 to 6An exemplary motorized window treatment 100 (e.g., a battery-powered motorized window treatment system) is depicted, which includes a roller tube 110 and a flexible material 120 (e.g., a cover material) wrapped around and attached to the roller tube 110. The motorized window treatment 100 may be a window treatment assembly including a window treatment assembly 111 and one or more mounting brackets 130A, 130B. The window treatment assembly 111 may include the roller tube 110, the flexible material 120, a motor drive unit 190 located at a first end 112 of the window treatment assembly 111, and an idler end 114 located at a second end 113 of the window treatment assembly 111. For example, the motorized window treatment 100 may be located at a Figures 1 to 4 The roller tube 110 may include a first end 112 and a second end 113. The electric window covering 100 may include a first mounting bracket 130A and a second mounting bracket 130B configured to be coupled to or otherwise mounted to a structure surrounding a window. The mounting brackets 130A, 130B may include respective plates 136A, 136B, wherein first flanges 132A, 132B extend from the top of the plates 136A, 136B and second flanges 134A, 134B extend from the sides of the plates 136A, 136B. For example, each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B may be configured to be mounted to (e.g., attached to) a window frame, a wall, or other structure such that the electric window covering 100 is mounted proximate to (e.g., above or in) an opening, such as, for example, a window. The mounting brackets 130A, 130B may be configured to be mounted to a vertical structure (e.g., such as Figure 1 The wall mount shown is mounted to a wall) and / or mounted to a horizontal structure (e.g., ceiling mounted to a ceiling).

[0054] The roller tube 110 can operate as a rotating element of the electric window covering 100. The roller tube 110 can be extended in a longitudinal direction L and can be rotatably mounted (e.g., rotatably supported) by the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. For example, the window covering assembly 111 can be rotatably supported by the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. The roller tube 110 can define a longitudinal axis 116. The longitudinal axis 116 can extend in the longitudinal direction L. The mounting brackets 130A, 130B can extend from the structure in a radial direction R. The radial direction R can be defined as a direction perpendicular to the structure and the longitudinal axis 116. The flexible material 120 can be wrapped and attached to the roller tube 110, so that rotation of the roller tube 110 causes the flexible material 120 to be wrapped around the roller tube 110 or unwound from the roller tube along a transverse direction T extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. For example, the rotation of the roller tube 110 can cause the flexible material 120 to be moved along the transverse direction T in a raised position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 3 The fully raised position or fully open position shown) and the lowered position (e.g. Figure 1 or the fully closed position).

[0055] The flexible material 120 may include a first end (e.g., a top or upper end) coupled to the roller tube 110 and a second end (e.g., a bottom or lower end) coupled to a swing arm 140. The swing arm 140 may be configured (e.g., weighted) to vertically suspend the flexible material 120. Rotation of the roller tube 110 may move the swing arm 140 toward or away from the roller tube 110 between a raised position and a lowered position.

[0056] The flexible material 120 can be any suitable material, or any combination of forming materials. For example, the flexible material 120 can be a "scrim", a woven cloth, a non-woven material, a light control film, a screen and / or a net. The electric curtain 100 can be any type of curtain. For example, the electric curtain 100 can be a roller blind, a soft gauze curtain, a drapery, a cellular curtain, a Roman blind or a venetian blind as shown. As shown, the flexible material 120 can be a material suitable for use as a blackout fabric, and can be referred to as a flexible material alternatively. The flexible material 120 is not limited to a blackout fabric. For example, according to an alternative embodiment of the electric curtain 100 as a retractable projection screen, the flexible material 120 can be a material suitable for displaying an image projected onto the flexible material.

[0057] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary motorized window covering 100 in an extended position. Figure 4 An exemplary motorized window covering 100 is shown wherein a battery holder 170 is located within a housing 180 of a motor drive unit 190 of the motorized window covering 100 . Figure 5 The exemplary motorized window covering 100 is depicted with the battery holder 170 removed from the housing 180 . Figure 6 is a front cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering 100 .

[0058] The electric curtain 100 may include a drive assembly, such as a motor drive unit 190 (e.g., Figure 6 ). The motor drive unit 190 may be at least partially disposed within the roller tube 110 (e.g., in the first end 112 of the roller tube 110). For example, the motor drive unit 190 may include a control circuit that may include a microprocessor and may be mounted to a printed circuit board 192 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 6). The motor drive unit 190 may be operably coupled to the roller tube 110 such that the roller tube 110 rotates when the motor drive unit 190 is operated. The motor drive unit 190 may be configured to rotate the roller tube 110 of the exemplary electric window shade 100 so that the flexible material 120 can be operated between a raised position and a lowered position. The motor drive unit 190 may also include a communication circuit, such as a wireless communication circuit, which may be mounted to the printed circuit board 192 and may be configured to send and receive signals (e.g., wireless signals, such as radio frequency (RF) signals). The motor drive unit 190 may be configured to rotate the roller tube 110 in response to a signal received from a remote control device via the communication circuit to control the flexible material 120 between a raised position and a lowered position. During a configuration process (e.g., an association process) of the electric window shade 100, the motor drive unit 190 may be associated with the remote control device so that the motor drive unit 190 may respond to a wireless signal transmitted by the remote control device.

[0059] like Figure 6 As shown, the motor drive unit 190 may include a motor 197, which is coupled to a drive coupling 199 via a gear assembly 198. The motor drive unit 190 (e.g., the motor 197) may be operably coupled to the roller tube 110, for example, via the drive coupling 199. The drive coupling 199 may be an output gear driven by the motor 197 and transmits the rotation of the motor 197 to the roller tube 110. For example, the drive coupling 199 may define a plurality of grooves around its periphery. The inner surface of the roller tube 110 may be splined (e.g., may define a plurality of splines). The grooves of the drive coupling 199 may be configured to engage corresponding splines of the roller tube 110, so that the rotation of the motor 197 is transmitted to the roller tube 110, for example, via the drive coupling 199. The motor drive unit 190 may also include a bearing assembly 195, which may support the roller tube 110 and may be rotatably coupled to the roller tube 100. The electric window shade 100 may further include an idler end portion 114 disposed within the second end portion 113 of the roller tube 110 (eg, as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 6 shown).

[0060] The motorized window covering 100 can be configured to allow access to one or more ends of the roller tube 110 and / or the motor drive unit 190 while remaining secured to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. For example, the motorized window covering 100 can be in an operating position (e.g., as shown) while the motorized window covering assembly 111 is secured to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. Figure 1 ) and the extended position (e.g., as Figure 4 and Figure 5The operating position may be defined as a position in which the roller tube 110 is supported by and aligned with both mounting brackets 130A, 130B. The extended position may be defined as a position in which one or more ends of the roller tube 110 and / or the motor drive unit 190 are accessible while still attached to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B.

[0061] When the electric window covering 100 is in the extended position, one or more ends (e.g., end portions) of the motor drive unit 190 and / or the roller tube 110 may be accessed, for example, to replace batteries, adjust one or more settings, make electrical connections, repair one or more components, etc. When the electric window covering 100 is in the extended position, one or more of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B may enable access to the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. Each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B may include a respective fixed portion 125A, 125B configured to be mounted to a structure and a respective pivoting portion 150A, 150B configured to pivot or rotate away from the structure. For example, the pivoting portion 150A of the first mounting bracket 130A may be configured to pivot or rotate away from the structure to enable access to the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. For example, a first portion (e.g., pivoting portion 150A, 150B) of one or more of mounting brackets 130A, 130B may be pivoted or rotated away from a second portion (e.g., fixed portion 125A, 125B). For example, pivoting portion 150A, 150B of mounting brackets 130A, 130B may be adjusted relative to fixed portion 125A, 125B, for example, to expose end portion 188 of motor drive unit 190 and / or idler end portion 114 disposed in roller tube 110.

[0062] The electric curtain 100 can be configured to pivot between an operating position and an extended position. For example, the electric curtain 100 can pivot around a fulcrum 165, which is located below the electric curtain 100 (e.g., mounting brackets 130A, 130B) along the lateral direction T. Both mounting brackets 130A, 130B can pivot when the electric curtain is in an extended position. For example, the pivoting portions 150A, 150B of the two mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to slide away from the fixed portions 125A, 125B. In this configuration, when the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position, the two ends of the roller tube 110 can be further away from the window and / or structure than when the electric curtain 100 is in the operating position. In other words, the electric curtain 100 can slide between the operating position and the extended position. When the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position, the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 can be exposed (e.g., accessible). The end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 may be positioned proximate to the first end 112 of the roller tube 110. The motor drive unit 190 may be received within the cavity 115 of the roller tube 110.

[0063] The battery holder 170 can be received in the electric window shade 100 (e.g., received in the motor drive unit 190). The battery holder 170 can be configured to hold the battery 160. For example, the battery holder 170 can define a battery compartment 191 configured to receive the battery 160. The battery holder 170 (e.g., the battery compartment 191) can be configured to securely hold the battery 160 in place while the battery 160 is supplying power to the motor drive unit 190. The battery holder 170 can be configured to clamp the battery 160 together (e.g., as Figure 5170 ) so that the batteries 160 can be removed from the battery-powered electric window shade 100 simultaneously (e.g., together). The battery holder 170 may include a first collar 172 and a second collar 178 at opposite ends of the battery holder 170. The first collar 172 and the second collar 178 may be configured to hold the battery 160 in place (e.g., to prevent longitudinal movement of the battery 160). The first collar 172 may define a first cavity 171 and a second cavity 173 separated by an arm 174 extending across the inner diameter of the first collar 172. The battery holder 170 may be configured to generate spring tension to hold the batteries 160 together. The battery holder 170 may include an internal spring 182 configured to maintain contact between the battery 160 and an electrical contact 184 (e.g., a positive contact) within the battery holder 170. The internal spring 182 may extend within the battery compartment 191. For example, the internal spring 182 may define a negative contact within the battery compartment 191. In other words, the inner spring 182 can be configured to abut the negative side of one of the batteries 160 within the battery compartment 191. The inner spring 182 can be configured to be compressed along the longitudinal direction L (e.g., toward the second collar 178) when the battery 160 is received within the battery compartment 191. The electrical contact 184 can be located on the first collar 172 within the battery compartment 191. For example, when the battery holder 170 is installed within the motor drive unit 190, the battery holder 170 (e.g., the inner spring 182 and the electrical contact 184) can be configured to be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 192 of the motor drive unit 190.

[0064] The battery holder 170 may be configured to be received in the cavity 181 of the housing 180. The second collar 178 may be positioned proximate to the distal end of the cavity 181, and the battery holder 170 may be inserted into the housing 180 (e.g., the cavity 181) of the motor drive unit 190. The arm 174, the first cavity 171, and the second cavity 173 may be configured to enable the battery holder 170 to rotate within the housing 180. For example, a force (e.g., a rotational force) may be applied to the arm 174 to rotate the battery holder 170 within the housing 180.

[0065] The battery holder 170 may be configured to be removed from the housing 180 (eg, the cavity 181) of the motor drive unit 190 (eg, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 180 ). When the battery holder 170 is removed from the housing 180 , the battery 160 may be removed from the battery holder 170 . A replacement battery may be installed in the battery holder 170 , and the battery holder 170 may be installed within the cavity 181 of the housing 180 .

[0066] The battery holder 170 can be configured to be fixed within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190 (e.g., the cavity 181 of the motor drive unit 190). When the battery holder 170 is installed in the housing 180 (e.g., the cavity 181), the battery holder 170 (e.g., the first collar 172) can be rotated to fix the battery holder 170 in the cavity 181 (e.g., fixed to the housing 180). For example, the battery holder 170 (e.g., the first collar 172) can define one or more protrusions (e.g., such as Figure 5 The first collar 172 may include one or more tabs 179 configured to secure the battery holder 170 to the housing / shell 180. The tabs 179 may be positioned around the perimeter of the first collar 172. The housing 180 may define slots 189 configured to receive (e.g., receive in a constrained manner) the tabs 179. Each of the slots 189 may extend partially around the perimeter of the housing 180 so that the tabs 179 may translate (e.g., angularly) therein when the battery holder 170 is rotated. The battery holder 170 (e.g., the first collar 172) may include two tabs 179 positioned approximately 180 degrees from each other, and the housing 180 may define two slots 189 aligned with the tabs 179. The number of slots 189 in the housing 180 may be equal to the number of tabs 179 on the battery holder 170. For example, the battery holder 170 may be rotated in a circumferential direction (e.g., an angular direction) between an unlocked position and a locked position. When in the unlocked position, the tabs 179 can be aligned with the opening of the slot 189 so that the battery holder 170 can be removed from the housing 180 (e.g., the cavity 181). Although the battery holder 170 is shown as having two tabs 179 and the housing 180 is shown as having two slots 189, it should be understood that the battery holder 170 can include any number of tabs 179 (e.g., one, two, more than two) and the housing 180 can define any number of slots 189 (e.g., one, two, more than two).

[0067] The motor drive unit 190 may include an actuation portion 176. The actuation portion 176 may include a button. For example, the actuation portion 176 may be configured to move in the longitudinal direction L in response to a force applied to the actuation portion 176. The button 176 may be accessible when the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position. For example, the actuation portion 176 may be accessible when the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position. When the electric curtain 100 is in the operating position, the actuation portion 176 may be covered by the fixed portion 125A of the first mounting bracket 130A. The actuation portion 176 may be configured to rotate the roller tube 110, enable a mode change and / or enter an associated mode of the motor drive unit 190. For example, a control circuit (e.g., a control circuit 420 such as shown in FIG. 34) may be configured to enter a configuration mode (e.g., an associated mode) in response to actuation of the actuation portion 176. For example, during the configuration process of the electric window covering 100, the motor drive unit 190 can be associated with the remote control device so that the control circuit of the motor drive unit 190 can respond to the wireless signal transmitted by the remote control device. In addition, during the configuration process, the motor drive unit 190 can be configured with one or more operating settings (e.g., preset positions between the raised position and the lowered position).

[0068] The mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to operate the electric curtain 100 between an operating position and an extended position. For example, the pivot portions 150A, 150B can be configured to operate the electric curtain 100 between an operating position and an extended position. The pivot portions 150A, 150B can be referred to as sliding portions, rotating portions, and / or movable portions. When the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position, a portion of the motor drive unit 190 (e.g., the first collar 172 of the battery holder 170) can be accessible. When the electric curtain 100 is in the operating position, the pivot portions 150A, 150B can be aligned with the fixed portions 125A, 125B so that an end portion of the motor drive unit 190 is covered by the fixed portion 125A.

[0069] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering 100 in an operating position. Figure 7 It is a left side cross-sectional view looking through the mounting bracket 130A toward the mounting bracket 130B. Figure 8 It is a right side cross-sectional view looking through the mounting bracket 130B toward the mounting bracket 130A. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary motorized window covering 100 in an extended position. Fig. 9 It is a left side cross-sectional view looking through the mounting bracket 130A toward the mounting bracket 130B. Fig.10 It is a right side cross-sectional view looking through the mounting bracket 130B toward the mounting bracket 130A. Fig.11 and Fig.12 is a perspective view of the respective mounting brackets 130A, 130B when the motorized window covering 100 is in an operating position. Fig.13 and Fig.14 is a perspective view of the respective mounting brackets 130A, 130B when the motorized window covering 100 is in the extended position.

[0070] The mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to allow access to one or more ends of the roller tube 110 and / or the motor drive unit 190 while the window covering assembly 111 remains secured to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. For example, the motorized window covering 100 can be in an operating position (e.g., as shown) while the motorized window covering assembly 111 is secured to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. Figure 1 ) and the extended position (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 The operative position may be defined as a position in which the roller tube 110 of the window covering assembly 111 is supported by and aligned with both mounting brackets 130A, 130B. The extended position may be defined as a position in which one or more ends of the roller tube 110 and / or the motor drive unit 190 are accessible while still attached to the mounting brackets 130A, 130B.

[0071] When the electric window shade 100 is in the extended position, one or more ends (e.g., end portions) of the motor drive unit 190 and / or the roller tube 110 can be accessed, for example, to replace batteries, adjust one or more settings, make electrical connections, repair one or more components, etc. When the electric window shade 100 is in the extended position, one or more of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B can enable access to end portions of the motor drive unit 190, such as end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. Each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B can include a corresponding fixed portion 125A, 125B configured to be mounted to a structure and a corresponding movable portion 150A, 150B configured to move (e.g., slide, pivot, or rotate) away from the structure. For example, the movable portions 150A, 150B can be sliding portions, pivoting portions, and / or rotating portions. The movable portions 150A, 150B can be referred to as pivoting portions, sliding portions, and / or rotating portions. For example, the movable portion 150A of the first mounting bracket 130A can be configured to move (e.g., slide, pivot, or rotate) away from the structure to enable access to the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. For example, the first portion (e.g., the movable portion 150A, 150B) of one or more of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be pivoted or rotated away from the second portion (e.g., the fixed portion 125A, 125B). For example, the movable portion 150A, 150B of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be adjusted relative to the fixed portion 125A, 125B, for example, to expose the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 and / or the idler end portion 114 disposed in the roller tube 110.

[0072] The curtain assembly 111 of the electric curtain 100 can be configured to move (e.g., slide, pivot, or rotate) between an operating position and an extended position along a circular path 129A, 129B. For example, the curtain assembly 111 can move about a fulcrum 165, which is located below the curtain assembly 111 (e.g., the mounting brackets 130A, 130B) along the transverse direction T. For example, the fulcrum 165 can be located below the corresponding lower walls 131A, 131B of the fixed portions 125A, 125B of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B (e.g., outside the area defined by each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B). In other words, the fulcrum 165 can be located outside the footprint (e.g., projection) of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B in the plane defined by the transverse direction T and the radial direction R. The fulcrum 165 can be the center of the circle defined by the circular paths 129A, 129B. When the electric window shade 100 is in the extended position, both mounting brackets 130A, 130B can move. For example, the movable portions 150A, 150B of both mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to slide away from the fixed portions 125A, 125B, for example, along circular paths 129A, 129B. In this configuration, when the electric window shade 100 is in the extended position, the two ends of the roller tube 110 can be further away from the window and / or structure than when the electric window shade 100 is in the operating position. In other words, the window shade assembly 111 of the electric window shade 100 can slide between the operating position and the extended position (e.g., along circular paths 129A, 129B).

[0073] The mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to operate the electric window shade 100 between an operating position and an extended position. When the electric window shade 100 is in the extended position, a portion of the motor drive unit 190 (e.g., such as Figure 6 The first collar 172 of the battery holder 170 shown may be accessible. When the electric window shade 100 is in the operating position, the movable portions 150A, 150B may be aligned with the fixed portions 125A, 125B such that the end portion of the motor drive unit 190 is covered by the fixed portion 125A.

[0074] The mounting brackets 130A, 130B can be configured to fix the electric curtain 100 in the extended position and / or the operating position. The mounting brackets 130A, 130B may include corresponding stop mechanisms (e.g., such as stop arms 162A, 162B) configured to prevent the electric curtain 100 from extending beyond the extended position. Each stop arm 162A, 162B can be made of a rigid material, such as, for example, metal, plastic, or a composite material. The stop arms 162A, 162B can extend from the lower walls 152A, 152B of the movable parts 150A, 150B. The stop arms 162A, 162B can be configured, for example, to engage corresponding tabs 133A, 133B extending from the fixed parts 125A, 125B when the electric curtain 100 is in the extended position. Each tab 133A, 133B can extend from the front edges 121A, 121B of the fixed parts 125A, 125B. The front edges 121A, 121B can be curved. The tabs 133A, 133B can be configured to prevent the motorized window covering 100 from extending beyond the extended position. The stop arms 162A, 162B can each define an upper surface 164A, 164B configured to abut the tabs 133A, 133B when the motorized window covering 100 is in the extended position.

[0075] The stop arms 162A, 162B can be configured to fix the electric window shade 100 in an operating position. Each stop arm 162A, 162B can be configured to engage a corresponding lock 135A, 135B extending from the fixed portion 125A, 125B. For example, each lock 135A, 135B can extend from the lower wall 131A, 131B of the corresponding fixed portion 125A, 125B. Each lock 135A, 135B can be configured to engage the corresponding stop arm 162A, 162B when the electric window shade is in the operating position. The stop arms 160A, 160B can define lower surfaces 166A, 166B, which are configured to abut the locks 135A, 135B when the electric window shade is in the extended position. The locks 135A, 135B can be configured to resist a predetermined threshold force applied to the roller tube in a direction away from the window (e.g., radial direction R). For example, the stop arms 162A, 162B may be configured to disengage from the latches 135A, 135B when a force greater than a predetermined threshold force is applied to the roller tube in a direction away from the window.

[0076] Each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B (e.g., the fixing portions 125A, 125B) may define one or more channels (e.g., such as channels 137A, 139A on the mounting bracket 130A and channels 137B, 139B on the mounting bracket 130B). Each of the channels 137A, 139A may be defined by a corresponding pair of ribs 138A. Each of the channels 137B, 139B may be defined by a corresponding pair of ribs 138B. The ribs 138A, 138B may extend from the side panels 126A, 126B of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B. The channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B may be curved. The curvature of the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B may define a circular path 129A, 129B. The curvature of channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B may be configured to allow access to end portions of the motor drive unit and / or roller tube, such as to replace batteries, adjust one or more settings, make electrical connections, repair one or more components, etc.

[0077] Each of the mounting brackets 130A, 130B (e.g., the fixed portions 125A, 125B) can define one or more sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B. The sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B can protrude from the outer surface 161A, 161B of the movable portion 150A, 150B (e.g., in the longitudinal direction L). The sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B can be configured to be received within the corresponding channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B. The sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B and the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B can be configured to support the window covering assembly (e.g., in the transverse direction T). The sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B and the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B can be configured to enable the movable portions 150A, 150B to slide relative to the fixed portions 125A, 125B. The channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B (e.g., and the sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B) can define circular paths 110A, 110B. For example, the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B (e.g., and the sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B) can define a curvature that matches the circular paths 129A, 129B. When the electric window shade is in the extended position, one or more of the sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B can remain within the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B. When the electric window shade is in the extended position, one or more of the sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B can exit the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B. As the electric window shade is operated between the operating position and the extended position, one or more of the sliding guides 167A, 167B, 169A, 169B can abut (e.g., and slide along) one or more of the channels 137A, 139A, 137B, 139B.

[0078] The mounting bracket 130A can be configured to receive and support an end portion of the motor drive unit 190. For example, the movable portion 150A of the mounting bracket 130A can define an opening 148 that is configured to receive the end portion of the motor drive unit 190. The mounting bracket 130B can be configured to support the idler end portion 114 of the electric window covering 100. The idler end portion 114 can be received in the cavity 115 of the roller tube 110. For example, the movable portion 150B of the mounting bracket 100B can define an idler pin 146. The idler pin 146 can be configured to be received in the opening 144 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) in the idler end portion 114 of the electric window covering 100. Figure 6130B), for example to support the idler end portion 114 in the second end 113 of the roller tube 110. The idler end portion 114 of the electric window shade 100 can be configured to rotate about the idler pin 146 of the mounting bracket 130B.

[0079] Fig.15 and 16 1 is a left side view of the electric window shade 100, wherein the movable portions 150A, 150B are separated from the fixed portions 125A, 125B of the mounting brackets 130A, 130A, respectively. Fig.15 The battery holder 170 is shown removed from the cavity 181 of the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190, and Fig.16 The battery holder 170 is shown mounted in the cavity 181 of the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig.17 is a partial front cross-sectional view (eg, taken through the center of the roller tube 110 ) of the motorized window covering 100 , wherein the battery 160 (eg, the battery holder 170 ) has been removed from the cavity 181 of the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A partial enlarged view of the front cross-sectional view. Fig.19 is a partial front cross-sectional view (eg, taken through the center of the roller tube 110 ) of the electric window covering 100 , wherein the battery holder 170 is mounted in the cavity 181 of the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 A partial enlarged view of the front cross-sectional view. Fig.21 is a top perspective view of the motor drive unit 190 of the electric window shade 100 . Fig. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 .

[0080] The electric window shade 100 can be configured to be fixed to one or more mounting brackets (e.g., such as mounting bracket 130A). For example, the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 can be configured to be fixed to the mounting bracket 130A. The motor drive unit 190 (e.g., the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190) can define a buckle 200. For example, the housing 180 can include a buckle 200 so that the buckle 200 extends from the housing 180 (e.g., the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190). The buckle 200 can be configured to fix the motor drive unit 190 to the mounting bracket 130A. The motor drive unit 190 can define a buckle arm 210. The buckle 200 can extend from the buckle arm 210. The buckle 200 can be located on the distal end of the buckle arm 210. For example, the buckle arm 210 can be configured so that the buckle 200 extends beyond the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. The buckle arms 210 may be configured to flex such that the buckle 200 moves in the lateral direction T. For example, the buckle arms 210 may move the buckle 200 in the lateral direction T when a force is applied to the buckle 200 .

[0081] With the window covering assembly 111 mounted to the mounting bracket 130A, the buckle 200 can be configured to move into the space occupied by the battery holder 170. For example, when a force is applied to the buckle 200, the buckle can move into the cavity 181. For example, the battery holder 170 can be removed from the cavity 181 to enable the buckle 200 to translate into the cavity 181.

[0082] The buckle 200 may be configured to engage with a corresponding feature on the mounting bracket 130A. For example, the mounting bracket 130A (e.g., the pivot portion 150A) may define a lock 220 configured to engage with the buckle 200. The buckle 200 and the lock 220 may be configured to prevent the motor drive unit 190 from disengaging from the mounting bracket 130A. The buckle 200 may define an inclined surface 202 and a vertical surface 204. For example, the inclined surface 202 may be angularly offset relative to the vertical surface 204. The vertical surface 204 may extend along a plane defined by the transverse direction T and the radial direction R. The lock 220 may define an inclined surface 222 and a vertical surface 224. For example, the inclined surface 222 may be angularly offset relative to the vertical surface 224. The vertical surface 224 may extend along a plane defined by the transverse direction T and the radial direction R. For example, as the motor drive unit 190 translates toward the mounting bracket 130A, the inclined surface 202 of the buckle 200 can abut the inclined surface 222 of the latch 220. After the inclined surface 202 of the buckle 200 abuts the inclined surface 220 of the latch 220, further translation of the motor drive unit 190 in the longitudinal direction toward the mounting bracket 130A can flex the buckle arm 210 so that the buckle moves into the cavity 181. For example, the latch 220 (e.g., the inclined surface 222) can apply a force to the buckle 200 (e.g., the inclined surface 202) in the transverse direction T.

[0083] As the motor drive unit 190 further translates toward the mounting bracket 130A, the inclined surface 202 of the buckle 200 may extend beyond the inclined surface 222 of the latch 220, so that the inclined surfaces 202, 222 do not abut each other. When the inclined surface 202 of the buckle 200 extends beyond the inclined surface 222 of the latch 220, the buckle 200 (e.g., the buckle arm 210) can return to its original position relative to the housing 180 (e.g., not flexed in the transverse direction T). The vertical surface 204 of the buckle 200 can be configured to abut the vertical surface 224 of the latch 220 to prevent the motor drive unit 190 from disengaging from the mounting bracket 130A. For example, when the motor drive unit 190 moves along the longitudinal direction L (e.g., toward another mounting bracket 130B), the vertical surface 204 of the buckle 200 can abut the vertical surface 224 of the latch 220. When the snap arm 210 returns to its original position relative to the housing 180, the battery holder 170 can be installed in the cavity 181. The snap 200 can be configured to lock in place (e.g., near the latch 220) when the battery holder 170 is installed in the cavity 181. When the battery holder 170 is installed in the cavity 181, the motor drive unit 190 can be fixed to the mounting bracket 130A. For example, when the battery holder 170 is installed in the cavity 181, the snap arm 210 may not be able to flex into the cavity 181. In other words, the battery holder 170 can prevent the snap arm 210 from flexing into the cavity 181.

[0084] The buckle 200 and the latch 220 can be configured to provide positive feedback when the motor drive unit 190 is installed to the mounting bracket 130A. For example, the buckle 200 and the latch 220 can be configured to ensure that the motor drive unit 190 is properly installed to the mounting bracket 130A. For example, if the motor drive unit 190 is not properly installed on the mounting bracket 130A, the battery holder 170 cannot be installed. Unless the battery holder 170 is installed, the motor drive unit 190 cannot operate. Therefore, if the motor drive unit 190 is not properly installed to the mounting bracket 130A, the motor drive unit 190 cannot operate.

[0085] Fig.23 is a bottom perspective view of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig.24 yes Fig.23 FIG. 25 is a partial front cross-sectional view of the electric curtain 100 taken through the center of the actuating member 300A of the motor drive unit 190. FIG. Fig.26 is an exploded view of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig. 27 is a top view of the motor drive unit 190 . Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 A partial enlarged view of the top view. Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an actuating member 300A of the motor drive unit 190, Fig.28 is its top view, Fig.29 is its front view, Fig.30 is its left side view, and Fig.31 This is its right side view. Fig.26 As shown, the housing 180 may include a first portion 183A and a second portion 183B. The first portion 183A and the second portion 183B of the housing 180 may be connected together via a plurality of fasteners 185 (e.g., screws) received through respective openings 186 in the first portion 183A and respective openings 187 in the second portion 183B (e.g., threaded openings). The printed circuit board 192 may be captured between the first portion 183A and the second portion 183B of the housing 180.

[0086] The actuating member 300A may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. For example, the switch 360 may be a mechanical tactile switch. The actuating member 300A may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360 (e.g., via the actuating member 300A abutting and pressing the switch 360). The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the force is not limited to a horizontal force and a vertical force, but rather, the force may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuating member 300A may be configured to bend around an obstacle within the cavity 181.

[0087] The actuation member 300A may include an elongated portion 302, a flexible member 304, and a plurality of legs 306. The elongated portion 302 may include an actuation portion 176 accessible from the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190. The elongated portion 302 may extend from the end portion 188 into the cavity 181, for example, near the printed circuit board 192. For example, the elongated portion 302 may extend from the end portion 188 through a channel 308 ( Fig.26 ) to the printed circuit board 192. When the battery holder 170 is installed in the cavity 181 of the housing 180, the elongated portion 302 can be captured in the channel 308 between the battery holder 170 and the second portion 183B of the housing 180. The channel 308 (e.g., and the battery holder 170) can be configured to prevent the actuation member 300A from buckling, for example, when the actuation member 300A is actuated. Fig. 22 As shown, the second portion 183B of the housing 180 may define a lip 311. The elongated portion 302 of the actuating member 300A may extend from the channel 308 through a gap 313 disposed between the battery holder 170 and the lip 311 of the housing 180 such that the actuating portion 176 is disposed at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190.

[0088] The flexible member 304 can be configured to flex, for example, to actuate the switch 360. The flexible member 304 can define an actuation tab 310 configured to actuate the switch 360. The actuation tab 310 can be configured to move along the transverse direction T as the elongated portion 302 moves along the longitudinal direction L. For example, the flexible member 304 can be configured to convert the longitudinal motion into a transverse motion such that the actuation tab 310 can move along the transverse direction T.

[0089] The flexible member 304 can be configured to press against the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181 to bias the actuation tab 310 toward the switch 360, for example, in response to a first force applied to the actuation portion 176. The motor drive unit 190 can include a tab 303 configured to hold the flexible member 304. The tab 303 can extend from the inner surface 301 into the cavity 181. The flexible member 304 can define a shaft 305 that is configured to be held by the tab 303. For example, the tab 303 can be configured to receive the shaft 305 in a constrained manner. The shaft 305 can be configured to rotate so that the actuation tab 310 can move in the lateral direction T. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the flexible member 304 can return to its original position.

[0090] The flexible member 304 can be v-shaped, having a first portion 307 defining an axis 305 and a second portion 309 extending from the elongated portion 302. For example, the flexible member 304 can include a living hinge. The first portion 307 and the second portion 309 can be connected near the actuation bump 310. The first portion 307 and the second portion 309 can be angularly offset within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T. It should be understood that the flexible member 304 is not limited to having a first portion 307 and a second portion 309 that are angularly offset within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T. For example, the first portion 307 and the second portion 309 of the flexible member 304 can be angularly offset within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R. The actuation bump 310 can be located at the intersection of the first portion 307 and the second portion 309. The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately depressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the flexible member 304 can flex and the actuation tab 310 can actuate the switch 360. The flexible member 304 can be shaped so that the actuation tab 310 is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation tab 310 can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (e.g., in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R).

[0091] The elongated portion 302 may include a light pipe portion 312 configured to extend near a light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192. The light source 355 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light source 355 may be configured to provide feedback to a user of the electric curtain 100. For example, the light source 355 may be configured to flash, blink, change color, etc. to indicate feedback. Additionally or alternatively, the light source 355 may be configured to indicate one or more modes of the electric curtain 100 (e.g., the motor drive unit 190). The actuating member 300A may be configured to transmit light emitted by the light source 355 to the end portion 188 (e.g., the actuating portion 176) of the motor drive unit 190. The light pipe portion 312 may be curved to transmit light emitted by the light source 355 on the printed circuit board 192 to the end portion 188 (e.g., the actuating portion 176) of the motor drive unit 190. The light pipe portion 312 and / or the entire elongated portion 302 can be translucent, for example, to direct light emitted by the light source 355 to the end portion 188. The flexible member 304 can be opaque so that the light emitted by the light source 355 cannot pass through the flexible member 304. In some examples, the actuation member 300A may not be configured to transmit light emitted by the light source 355 and the light pipe portion 312 may be omitted. For example, the second portion 309 of the flexible member 304 may extend from the actuation bump 310 to the elongated portion 302.

[0092] A plurality of feet 306 may extend from the elongated portion 302. The plurality of feet 306 may be configured to secure the actuation member 300A within the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180, for example, before the battery holder 170 is installed therein. The housing 180 may include a plurality of recesses 330 that define one or more holes 332 extending from the cavity 181 to the outer surface 280 of the housing 180. Each of the holes 332 may be configured to receive a corresponding one of the plurality of feet 306.

[0093] Each of the plurality of recesses 330 can be configured to enable each of the plurality of feet 306 to translate within a corresponding recess of the plurality of recesses 330 along the longitudinal direction L. For example, as the actuation member 300A is actuated, each of the plurality of feet 306 can slide within a corresponding hole of the plurality of holes 332. Each of the plurality of recesses 330 can define a length L1 that limits the distance that the elongated portion 302 translates within the cavity 181 along the longitudinal direction L. For example, the plurality of recesses 330 can prevent the actuation member 300A from translating beyond the length L1 along the longitudinal direction L. The length L1 can also define the distance that the actuation tab 310 translates along the transverse direction T. The spacing between the feet 306 (e.g., and between the recesses 330) along the longitudinal direction L can be configured to prevent the actuation member 300A (e.g., the elongated portion 302) from buckling.

[0094] Although the illustrated actuation member 300A has a v-shaped flexible member 304 extending from the elongated portion 302, it should be understood that the actuation member 300 may define alternative geometries to convert a horizontal force applied to the actuation portion 176 into a vertical movement of the actuation switch 360. Although the actuation member 300A is illustrated as a single-piece member having multiple parts, it should be understood that the actuation member may include two or more pieces connected together and / or interengaged. For example, one piece may be more rigid than the other piece, which may prevent buckling within the cavity 181 and still enable the same or greater vertical movement when the same horizontal force is applied to the actuation portion 176.

[0095] FIG. 34A to FIG. 38B Describes a method that can be used in electric curtains (e.g., such as Figure 1 100) are shown as alternative actuating members 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F for use within the motorized window covering 100). Fig.34A is a motorized window shade (e.g., such as Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of the electric curtain 100 shown. Fig.34B yes Fig.34A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0096] The actuating member 300B may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. The actuating member 300B may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. For example, the first force may be applied along the longitudinal direction L by pressing the actuating member 176 toward the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360 (e.g., via the actuating member 300B abutting and pressing the switch 360). The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the force is not limited to one horizontal force and one vertical force, but rather, the force may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuation member 300B may be configured to bend around obstacles within the cavity 181 .

[0097] The actuation member 300B can include an elongated portion 302, a flexible member 304B, and a plurality of legs 306. The flexible member 304B can be configured to flex, for example, to actuate a switch 360. The flexible member 304B can define an actuation tab 310B configured to actuate the switch 360. The actuation tab 310B can be configured to move in a transverse direction T as the elongated portion 302 moves in a longitudinal direction L. For example, the flexible member 304B can be configured to convert longitudinal motion into transverse motion such that the actuation tab 310B can move in the transverse direction T.

[0098] Flexible member 304B can be configured to press against inner surface 321 of cavity 181 to bias actuation tab 310B toward switch 360 , for example, in response to a first force being applied to actuation portion 176 .

[0099] Flexible member 304B can be rhombus-shaped, having a plurality of arms 322 arranged in a rhombus (e.g., rhombus). For example, arms 322 can be offset at an angle so that arms 322 can be flexed relative to each other. Flexible member 304B can include one or more living hinges. For example, flexible member 304B can be configured to flex at the intersection of adjacent arms 322 when force is applied to actuation portion 176. That is, flexible member 304B can define a living hinge at one or more (e.g., each) intersections of adjacent arms 322. Actuation bump 310B can be located at the intersection of two (e.g., two upper arms) of arms 322. Flexible member 304B can define lower surface 324 at the intersection of two (e.g., two lower arms) of arms 322. Lower surface 324 can be configured to abut lower surface 315 of cavity 181. For example, when a first force is applied to the actuation portion 176 to bias the actuation tab 310B toward the switch 360, the lower surface 324 can abut the lower surface 315. The flexible member 304B can be shaped such that the actuation tab 310B is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation tab 310B can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (e.g., within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R).

[0100] The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately depressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the flexible member 304B can flex and the actuation tab 310B can actuate the switch 360. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the flexible member 304B can return to its original position.

[0101] The elongated portion 302 may include a light pipe portion 312B configured to extend near a light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192. The light source 355 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light source 355 may be configured to provide feedback to a user of the electric curtain 100. For example, the light source 355 may be configured to flash, blink, change color, etc. to indicate feedback. Additionally or alternatively, the light source 355 may be configured to indicate one or more modes of the electric curtain 100 (e.g., the motor drive unit 190). The actuating member 300B may be configured to transmit light emitted by the light source 355 to the end portion 188 (e.g., the actuating portion 176) of the motor drive unit 190. The light pipe portion 312B may be curved to transmit light emitted by the light source 355 on the printed circuit board 192 to the end portion 188 (e.g., the actuating portion 176) of the motor drive unit 190. Light pipe portion 312B and / or the entire elongated portion 302 can be translucent, for example, to direct light emitted by light source 355 to end portion 188. Flexible member 304B can be opaque so that light emitted by light source 355 cannot pass through flexible member 304B. In some examples, actuation member 300B may not be configured to transmit light emitted by light source 355 and light pipe portion 312B may be omitted.

[0102] Fig.35A is a cross-section taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member 300C of a motor drive unit. Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain. Fig.35B yes Fig.35A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0103] The actuating member 300C may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. The actuating member 300C may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. For example, the first force may be applied along the longitudinal direction L by pressing the actuating member 176 toward the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360 (e.g., by the actuating member 300C abutting and pressing the switch 360). The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the force is not limited to one horizontal force and one vertical force, but rather, the force may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuation member 300C may be configured to bend around obstacles within the cavity 181 .

[0104] Actuation member 300C may include elongated portion 302, flexible member 304C and multiple feet 306. Flexible member 304C may be configured to flex, for example to actuate switch 360. Flexible member 304C may be a cable, a line or similar flexible material. Flexible member 304C may be configured to bend and maintain a stiffness level higher than a predetermined stiffness threshold. For example, flexible member 304C may have a circular cross section, a rectangular cross section, etc. For example, flexible member may be a cylindrical cable, a ribbon cable and / or the like. For example, the stiffness threshold may be configured to keep actuation projection 310C aligned with switch 360. Flexible member 304C may define an actuation projection 310C configured to actuate the switch 360. Actuation projection 310C may be configured to move in transverse direction T as elongated portion 302 moves in longitudinal direction L. For example, the flexible member 304C can be configured to convert longitudinal motion into lateral motion such that the actuation bump 310C can move along the lateral direction T.

[0105] The flexible member 304C may be configured to be received within a channel 325 (e.g., a tunnel) of a guide element 326. The guide element 326 may be formed as part of the second portion 183B of the housing 180 and may extend from a lower surface 315 of the cavity 181 in some examples. The channel 325 may be configured to guide (e.g., bias) the actuation bump 310C toward the switch 360 in response to a force applied to the actuation portion 176. For example, the channel 325 may define a cross-section corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the flexible member 304C. The channel 325 may be curved so that the flexible member 304C bends (e.g., rotates) approximately 90 degrees from the longitudinal direction L to the transverse direction T. The flexible member 304C may define a certain stiffness that enables the actuation bump 310C to actuate the switch 360 without buckling. For example, the flexible member 304C may define a stiffness within a predefined stiffness threshold.

[0106] The flexible member 304C and the guide element 326 can be shaped so that the actuation projection 310C is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation projection 310C can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (e.g., in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R). It should be understood that the guide element 326 is not limited to the geometric shape shown in the figures. Instead, the guide element 326 can define an alternative shape different from that shown in the figures, such as, for example, a trapezoid, a rhombus, a cylindrical shape, etc. It should be understood that the guide element 326 is not limited to the relative dimensions shown in the figures. Instead, the guide element 326 can extend closer to or farther away from the switch 360 than shown in the figures.

[0107] The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the guide element 326 of the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately depressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the flexible member 304C can flex and the actuation tab 310C can actuate the switch 360. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the flexible member 304C can return to its original position. It should be understood that the elongated portion 302 can include a light pipe portion (e.g., such as the light pipe portion 312 and / or the light pipe portion 312B) that is configured to extend proximate to the light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192.

[0108] Fig.36A is a cross-section through the center of another exemplary actuation member 300D of a motor drive unit. Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain. Fig.36B yes Fig.36A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0109] The actuating member 300D may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. The actuating member 300D may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. For example, the first force may be applied along the longitudinal direction L by pressing the actuating member 176 toward the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360. The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the forces are not limited to one horizontal force and one vertical force, but rather, the forces may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuation member 300D may be configured to bend around obstacles within the cavity 181 .

[0110] The actuation member 300D may include an elongated portion 302, a wedge-shaped portion 330, and a flexible member 335. The wedge-shaped portion 330 may define an inclined surface 331 configured to abut the flexible member 335. The wedge-shaped portion 330 may be configured to bias the flexible member 335 along the transverse direction T in response to a first force along the longitudinal direction L. The flexible member 335 may define a base portion 332 and a head portion 334. For example, the flexible member 335 (e.g., the base portion 332) may be formed as a part of the second portion 183B of the housing 180. The head portion 334 may be attached to the base portion 332 via a connecting portion 333. The base portion 332 may be configured to extend from the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The head portion 334 may define a lower surface 337 configured to slide along the inclined surface 331. The head portion 334 may define the actuation bump 310D.

[0111] The flexible member 335 can be configured to flex to actuate the switch 360. As the first force is applied to the actuation portion 176, the inclined surface 331 of the wedge portion 330 can contact the lower surface 337 of the head portion 334, thereby causing the connecting portion 333 to flex (e.g., bend) and the actuation tab 310D to actuate the switch 360. The head portion 334 can be configured to pivot about a fulcrum 339 defined by the attachment of the connecting portion 333 to the base portion 332, for example, when the elongated portion 302 moves along the longitudinal direction L. The actuation tab 310D can be configured to move along the transverse direction T as the elongated portion 302 moves along the longitudinal direction L. For example, the wedge portion 330 and the flexible member 335 of the actuation member 300D can be configured to convert the longitudinal motion into a transverse motion so that the actuation tab 310D can move along the transverse direction T. For example, as the wedge-shaped portion 330 moves toward the inner surface 301 along the longitudinal direction L, the wedge-shaped portion 330 can apply a second force to the head portion 334 of the flexible member 335 to move the actuation tab 310D along the transverse direction T. The wedge-shaped portion 330 can define a stopper 336 configured to prevent the actuation member 300D from moving too far along the longitudinal direction L, and thus prevent the actuation tab 310D from moving too far along the transverse direction T.

[0112] The flexible member 335 can be shaped such that the actuation tab 310D is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation tab 310D can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (eg, within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R).

[0113] The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately depressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the wedge portion 330 and the flexible member 335 can bias the head portion 334 to cause the actuation bump 310D to actuate the switch 360. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the wedge portion 330 and the block portion 335 can return to their original positions. It should be understood that the elongated portion 302 can include a light pipe portion (e.g., such as the light pipe portion 312 and / or the light pipe portion 312B) that is configured to extend proximate to the light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192.

[0114] Fig.37A is a cross-section taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member 300E of a motor drive unit. Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain. Fig.37B yes Fig.37A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0115] The actuating member 300E may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. The actuating member 300E may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. For example, the first force may be applied along the longitudinal direction L by pressing the actuating member 176 toward the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360. The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the forces are not limited to one horizontal force and one vertical force, but rather, the forces may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuation member 300E may be configured to bend around obstacles within the cavity 181 .

[0116] The actuation member 300E may include an elongated portion 302 and a flexible member 304E. The flexible member 304E may include a curved portion 340, a base portion 342, and a connecting portion 344. The curved portion 340 may be attached to the base portion 342 via the connecting portion 344. For example, the curved portion 340 may be cantilevered from the base portion 342 via the connecting portion 344. It should be understood that although the curved portion 340 is shown as curved in the figures, the curved portion 340 may define alternative geometric shapes, such as, for example, a straight line, a segment, etc.

[0117] The flexible member 304E (e.g., the curved portion 340) can define a first abutment surface 341 that is configured to engage a second abutment surface 343 of the elongated portion 302. For example, the second abutment surface 343 of the elongated portion 302 can be configured to abut the first abutment surface 341 of the curved portion 340 when a first force is applied to the actuation portion 176. The curved portion 340 can define an actuation tab 310E. The curved portion 340 can be configured to pivot about a fulcrum 345 defined by the attachment of the connecting portion 344 to the base portion 342, for example, when the elongated portion 302 moves along the longitudinal direction L. The actuation tab 310E can be configured to move along the transverse direction T as the elongated portion 302 moves along the longitudinal direction L. For example, the flexible member 304E (e.g., the curved portion 340, the base portion, and the connecting portion 344) can be configured to convert the longitudinal motion into a transverse motion so that the actuation tab 310E can move along the transverse direction T.

[0118] The curved portion 340 can be shaped so that the actuation protrusion 310E is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation protrusion 310E can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (e.g., in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R). The plane can be perpendicular to the first abutment surface 341. The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately pressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the actuation member 300E can bias the flexible member 304E to cause the actuation block 310E to actuate the switch 360. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the flexible member 304E can return to its original position. It should be appreciated that the elongated portion 302 may include a light pipe portion (eg, such as light pipe portion 312 and / or light pipe portion 312B) that is configured to extend proximate to a light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192 .

[0119] Fig.38A is a cross-section taken through the center of another exemplary actuation member 300F of a motor drive unit. Figure 1 A partial front cross-sectional view of an electric curtain. Fig.38B yes Fig.38A An enlarged view of a partial front cross-sectional view.

[0120] The actuating member 300F may be configured to actuate a switch 360 mounted to a printed circuit board 192 within the housing 180 of the motor drive unit 190. The actuating member 300F may be configured to convert a first force applied along a longitudinal direction L at the end portion 188 of the motor drive unit 190 into a second force applied along a transverse direction T within the cavity 181 of the housing 180. For example, the first force may be applied along the longitudinal direction L by pulling the actuating member 176 away from the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181. The transverse direction T may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L. The second force may be configured to actuate the switch 360. The first force may be a horizontal force, and the second force may be a vertical force. It should be understood that the forces are not limited to one horizontal force and one vertical force, but rather, the forces may be in other directions orthogonal to each other. It should also be understood that the first force may not be orthogonal to the second force. For example, the first force may be angularly offset from the second force at an angle less than or greater than 90 degrees. For example, the actuation member 300F may be configured to bend around obstacles within the cavity 181 .

[0121] The actuation member 300F may include an elongated portion 302, a wedge-shaped portion 350, and a flexible member 355. The wedge-shaped portion 350 may define an inclined surface 351 configured to abut the flexible member 355. The wedge-shaped portion 350 may be configured to bias the flexible member 355 along the transverse direction T in response to a first force along the longitudinal direction L. The flexible member 355 may define a base portion 352 and a head portion 354. For example, the flexible member 355 (e.g., the base portion 332) may be formed as part of the second portion 183B of the housing 180. The head portion 354 may be attached to the base portion 352 via the connecting portion 353. The base portion 352 may be configured to extend from the inner surface 301 of the cavity 181.

[0122] The head portion 354 may define a lower surface 357 configured to slide along the inclined surface 351. The head portion 354 may define an actuation tab 310F. The flexible member 355 may be configured to flex to actuate the switch 360. As a first force is applied to the actuation portion 176, the inclined surface 351 of the wedge-shaped portion 350 may contact the lower surface 357 of the head portion 354, thereby causing the connecting portion 353 to flex (e.g., bend) and the actuation tab 310D to actuate the switch 360. The head portion 354 may be configured to pivot about a fulcrum 359 defined by the attachment of the connecting portion 353 to the base portion 352, for example, when the elongated portion 302 moves in the longitudinal direction L. The actuation tab 310F may be configured to move in the transverse direction T as the elongated portion 302 moves in the longitudinal direction L. For example, the wedge portion 350 and the flexible member 355 of the actuation member 300F can be configured to convert the longitudinal motion into the transverse motion so that the actuation tab 310F can move in the transverse direction T. For example, as the wedge portion 350 moves away from the inner surface 301 in the longitudinal direction L, the wedge portion 350 can apply a second force to the head portion 354 of the flexible member 355 to move the actuation tab 310F in the transverse direction T. The wedge portion 350 can define a stopper 356 configured to prevent the actuation member 300F from moving too far in the longitudinal direction L, and thus prevent the actuation tab 310F from moving too far in the transverse direction T. Additionally or alternatively, for example, as the actuation member 176 is pulled, the stopper 356 can prevent the elongated portion 302 from being pulled out of the channel 308.

[0123] The flexible member 355 can be shaped such that the actuation tab 310F is aligned with the switch 360. For example, the actuation surface 347 of the actuation tab 310F can be configured to be substantially parallel to the switch 360 (eg, within a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the radial direction R).

[0124] The elongated portion 302 can extend from the channel 308 in the second portion 183B of the housing 180 a distance long enough to allow the actuation portion 176 to be appropriately depressed along the longitudinal direction L so that the wedge-shaped portion 350 and the flexible member 355 can bias the actuation bump 310F to actuate the switch 360. When the first force is removed from the actuation portion 176, the wedge-shaped portion 350 and the flexible member 355 can return to their original positions. It should be understood that the elongated portion 302 can include a light pipe portion (e.g., such as the light pipe portion 312 and / or the light pipe portion 312B) that is configured to extend proximate to the light source 355 mounted to the printed circuit board 192.

[0125] Fig.391 is a simplified block diagram of a motor drive unit 400 for an electric window shade (e.g., the motor drive unit 190 for the electric window shade 100). The motor drive unit 400 may include a motor 410 (e.g., a DC motor) that may be coupled to a roller tube (e.g., the roller tube 110) of the electric window shade for rotating the roller tube. The rotation of the roller tube may be configured to raise and lower a covering material (e.g., the flexible material 120). The motor drive unit 400 may include a compartment 462 (e.g., which may be a DC power source) configured to receive a DC power source. Figures 4 to 6 100). The DC power source may be, for example, one or more batteries 460. In this example, the compartment 462 may be configured to receive one or more batteries 460 (e.g., four "D" batteries), such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 The battery 460 can provide a battery voltage V to the motor drive unit 400. 电池 In addition, alternative DC power sources, such as solar cells (e.g., photovoltaic cells), ultrasonic energy sources, and / or radio frequency (RF) energy sources, can be coupled in parallel with one or more batteries 460, or in some examples, can be used as a substitute for batteries 460. In addition, an external DC power source can be configured to be coupled in parallel with one or more batteries 460. Alternative DC power sources and / or external DC power sources can be used to perform the same and / or similar functions as one or more batteries 460.

[0126] The motor drive unit 400 may include a motor drive circuit 412 (eg, an H-bridge drive circuit) that receives a battery voltage V 电池 And a pulse width modulation (PWM) voltage V for driving the motor 410 can be generated PWM Although not shown in FIG. 34 , the motor drive unit 400 may include a power converter circuit (eg, a boost converter circuit) coupled between the battery 460 and the motor drive circuit 412 for receiving the battery voltage V 电池 The motor drive unit 400 may include a power supply 414, which may receive a battery voltage V 电池 And generate a power supply voltage V for powering the low-voltage circuit of the motor drive unit CC .

[0127] The motor drive unit 400 may include a control circuit 420 for controlling the operation of the motor 410. The control circuit 420 may include, for example, a microprocessor, a programmable logic device (PLD), a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other suitable processing device or control circuit. The control circuit 420 may be configured to generate one or more drive signals V for controlling the motor drive circuit 412. DR . One or more drive signals V DR It can be configured to control the rotation speed and / or rotation direction of the motor 410 .

[0128] The motor drive unit 400 may include a rotational position sensing circuit 422, such as, for example, a Hall Effect Sensor (HES) circuit, which may be configured to generate a first rotational position sensing signal V S1 and the second rotation position sensing signal V S2 The first rotation position sensing signal V S1 and the second rotation position sensing signal V S2 The rotation speed and / or direction of the motor 410 may be indicated to the control circuit 420. The rotation position sensing circuit 422 may include other suitable position sensors, such as, for example, a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, and / or a resistive sensor. The control circuit 420 may be configured to respond to the first rotation position sensing signal V generated by the rotation position sensing circuit 422. S1 and the second rotation position sensing signal V S2 The control circuit 420 may be configured to determine the current position of the covering material in response to the rotational position of the motor 410. The control circuit 420 may be coupled to a memory 424 (e.g., a non-volatile memory). The current position of the covering material and / or the limits for controlling the position of the covering material (e.g., a fully raised position and / or a fully lowered position) may be stored in the memory 424. The operation of the motor drive circuit and the rotational position sensing circuit of the exemplary motor drive unit is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Nos. 5,848,634, entitled “MOTORIZED WINDO W SHADE SYSTEM,” published on December 15, 1998, and 7,839,109, entitled “METHOD OF CONTROLLING A MOTORI ZED WINDOWTREATMENT,” published on November 23, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0129] The motor drive unit 400 may include a communication circuit 425 that may allow the control circuit 420 to send and receive signals, e.g., wired signals and / or wireless signals (such as radio frequency (RF) signals). The control circuit 420 may be configured to control the motor 410 to control movement of the covering material in response to curtain movement commands received from signals received from a remote control device via the communication circuit 425. During a configuration process (e.g., an association process), the motor drive unit 400 may be associated with the remote control device so that the motor drive unit 400 may respond to messages transmitted by the remote control device (e.g., via wireless signals). For example, the motor drive unit 400 may include an actuator 426 (e.g., a mechanical tactile switch, such as Fig.25A , Fig.25B , Fig.34A , Fig.34B , Fig.35A , Fig.35B , Fig.36A , Fig.36B , Fig.37A , Fig.37B , Fig.38A and Fig.38B ), which can be actuated to cause the control circuit 420 to enter a configuration mode. Additionally, during the configuration process, the motor drive unit 400 can be configured with one or more operational settings (e.g., preset positions between a raised position and a lowered position). The motor drive unit 400 may include a light source 428 (e.g., such as Fig.25A , Fig.25B , Fig.34A , Fig.34B ), which can be illuminated by the control circuit 420, for example, to provide feedback to a user of the power window (e.g., indicating that the motor drive unit is in configuration mode during configuration mode). The light source 428 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

Claims

1. An electric curtain, comprising: a roller tube configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis defining a longitudinal direction; a flexible material attached to the roller tube, the flexible material being operable between a raised position and a lowered position via rotation of the roller tube; as well as A motor drive unit, the motor drive unit is located in the winding tube, and the motor drive unit comprises: a motor configured to rotate the roller tube; a control circuit configured to control the motor to adjust the flexible material between a raised position and a lowered position; a battery holder configured to hold one or more batteries to power the motor and the control circuit; a printed circuit board, the control circuit being mounted to the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being located between the battery holder and the motor; a switch mounted to the printed circuit board and electrically coupled to the control circuit such that the control circuit is responsive to actuation of the switch; and An actuation member is configured to convert a first force applied in a first direction at an end portion of the motor drive unit into a second force in a second direction, the second force being configured to actuate the switch.

2. An electric curtain according to claim 1, wherein the actuation member includes a slender portion and a flexible member, the flexible member defines an actuation protrusion, the actuation protrusion is configured to actuate the switch, and the flexible portion is configured to flex and cause the actuation protrusion to actuate the switch in response to the first force applied to the slender portion along the longitudinal direction.

3. The motorized window shade of claim 2, wherein the actuation projection is configured to move in the transverse direction as the elongated portion moves in the longitudinal direction.

4. The motorized window shade of claim 3, wherein the flexible member is configured to press against an inner surface of the cavity to bias the actuation projection toward the switch.

5. The motorized window shade of claim 4, wherein the flexible member defines a shaft configured to be retained by a tab on the inner surface.

6. The motorized window shade of claim 5, wherein the shaft is configured to rotate such that the actuation tab is movable in the lateral direction.

7. The motorized window shade of claim 6, wherein the flexible member is v-shaped having a first portion defining the axis and a second portion extending from the elongated portion.

8. The motorized window covering of claim 1, wherein the elongated portion comprises a light pipe portion configured to extend proximate a light source mounted to the printed circuit board.

9. The electric curtain according to claim 8, wherein the light guide portion is bent to transmit light emitted from the light source on the printed circuit board to the end portion of the motor drive unit.

10. The motorized window shade of claim 9, wherein the elongated portion is translucent.

11. The motorized window shade of claim 4, wherein the flexible member comprises a plurality of arms arranged in a diamond shape.

12. The motorized window shade of claim 11, wherein the flexible member is configured to flex at an intersection of adjacent arms when the first force is applied to the end portion.

13. The electric curtain according to claim 12, wherein the actuating protrusion is located at an intersection of two upper arms among the plurality of arms.

14. The electric window shade of claim 13, wherein the flexible member defines a lower surface at an intersection of two lower arms of the plurality of arms.

15. The motorized window shade of claim 14, wherein when the first force is applied to the end portion, the lower surface is configured to abut a lower surface of the cavity, and the flexible member is configured to abut an inner surface of the cavity.

16. The motorized window shade of claim 4, wherein the flexible member comprises a cable configured to bend and having a stiffness that prevents buckling when the switch is actuated.

17. The motorized window shade of claim 16, wherein the actuation member includes a guide element defining a passage therethrough, the passage being configured to receive the flexible member.

18. The motorized window shade of claim 17, wherein the channel is curved such that the flexible member bends approximately 90 degrees from the longitudinal direction to the transverse direction.

19. The motorized window shade of claim 1, wherein the actuation member comprises an elongated portion, a wedge-shaped portion, and a flexible member.

20. The motorized window shade of claim 19, wherein the flexible member defines an actuation tab that moves in the lateral direction to actuate the switch as the elongated portion moves in the longitudinal direction.

21. The motorized window shade of claim 20, wherein the wedge-shaped portion defines a sloped surface configured to abut the flexible member.

22. The motorized window shade of claim 21, wherein the flexible member includes a base portion and a head portion attached to the base portion by a connection portion, the head portion defining a lower surface configured to slide along the inclined surface of the wedge-shaped portion.

23. The motorized window shade of claim 22, wherein the wedge-shaped portion is configured to bias the flexible member in the transverse direction T in response to the first force in the longitudinal direction.

24. The electric window shade of claim 23, wherein the wedge-shaped portion is configured to apply the second force to the head portion to move the actuation protrusion toward the switch along the lateral direction as the wedge-shaped portion moves toward the inner surface of the cavity along the longitudinal direction.

25. The electric window shade of claim 23, wherein the wedge-shaped portion is configured to apply the second force to the head portion to move the actuation protrusion toward the switch in the lateral direction as the wedge-shaped portion moves away from the inner surface of the cavity in the longitudinal direction.

26. The motorized window shade of claim 4, wherein the flexible member includes a bent portion, a base portion, and a connecting portion attaching the bent portion to the base portion.

27. The motorized window shade of claim 26, wherein the curved portion defines a first abutment surface, and wherein the elongated portion defines a second abutment surface configured to abut the first abutment surface of the curved portion when the first force is applied to the end portion.

28. The motorized window shade of claim 27, wherein the curved portion is configured to pivot about a fulcrum defined by attachment of the connecting portion to the base portion.

29. The motorized window shade of claim 28, wherein the curved portion is curved so that the actuation projection is aligned with the switch.

30. The motorized window shade of claim 28, wherein the actuation tab defines an actuation surface that is substantially parallel to the switch.

31. The electric curtain according to claim 2, further comprising: a housing in which the motor and the printed circuit board are housed, the housing defining a cavity in which the battery holder is configured to be received; The elongated portion of the actuation member is configured to extend from the end portion of the motor drive unit adjacent the battery holder to the printed circuit board.

32. The motorized window shade of claim 31, wherein the housing defines a channel, the elongated portion being configured to extend in the channel from the end portion of the motor drive unit to the printed circuit board.

33. The electric curtain according to claim 32, further comprising: A plurality of feet extend from the elongated portion and are configured to secure the actuation member within the cavity.

34. An electric window shade according to claim 33, wherein the housing includes a plurality of recesses defining one or more holes extending from the cavity to the outer surface of the housing, each of the holes being configured to receive a corresponding one of the plurality of feet.

35. The motorized window shade of claim 34, wherein the plurality of recesses are configured such that each of the plurality of feet can translate within a corresponding recess of the plurality of recesses along the longitudinal direction.

36. The motorized window shade of claim 34, wherein each of the plurality of recesses defines a length that limits the distance the elongated portion can translate within the cavity along the longitudinal direction.

37. An electric window shade according to claim 31, further comprising a mounting bracket configured to support respective first and second ends of the roller tube and to mount the electric window shade to a structure, the mounting bracket configured to enable the roller tube to operate between an operating position and an extended position, wherein a portion of the motor drive unit is accessible when the electric window shade is in the extended position, and wherein the pivoting portion is aligned with the fixed portion when the electric window shade is in the operating position.

38. The motorized window shade of claim 37, wherein each of the mounting brackets comprises: a fixing portion configured to be attached to the structure around the window; as well as A movable portion is configured to receive an end portion of the motor drive unit, the movable portion being configured to engage the fixed portion and operate the motorized window shade between the operating position and the extended position.

39. An electric curtain according to claim 38, wherein the housing includes a latch extending from a latch arm along the longitudinal direction, the latch being configured to engage a lock defined by a movable portion of a first mounting bracket among the mounting brackets, the latch being configured to lock in place when the battery holder is installed in the cavity to secure the motor drive unit to the first mounting bracket.

40. The motorized window covering of claim 1, wherein the elongated portion includes an actuation portion accessible at the end portion of the motor drive unit.

41. The motorized window shade of claim 1, wherein the first direction is the longitudinal direction, and the second direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

42. An electric curtain, comprising: a roller tube configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis defining a longitudinal direction; a flexible material attached to the roller tube, the flexible material being operable between a raised position and a lowered position via rotation of the roller tube; a motor drive unit located within the roller tube, the motor drive unit comprising a motor and a housing, the motor being configured to rotate the roller tube, the housing being configured to receive a battery holder for holding one or more batteries for powering the motor drive unit, the motor drive unit being configured to rotate the roller tube to adjust the flexible material between a raised position and a lowered position, the housing comprising a buckle extending from a buckle arm in a longitudinal direction; as well as A first mounting bracket, the first mounting bracket is configured to rotatably support the end of the roller tube and mount the electric curtain to a structure around the window, the first mounting bracket comprising: a fixing portion configured to be attached to the structure around the window; and a movable portion configured to receive an end portion of the motor drive unit, the movable portion configured to engage the fixed portion and operate the electric window shade between the operating position and the extended position, wherein a portion of the motor drive unit is accessible when the electric window shade is in the extended position; The movable portion includes a lock configured to engage with the buckle, and the buckle is configured to lock in place when the battery holder is installed in the housing to prevent the motor drive unit from being separated from the first mounting bracket.

43. The electric window shade of claim 42, wherein the buckle comprises a first inclined surface and a first vertical surface, and wherein the lock buckle comprises a second inclined surface and a second vertical surface.

44. An electric curtain according to claim 43, wherein when the battery holder is not installed in the housing of the motor drive unit, the end portion of the motor drive unit can be received in the opening of the movable portion, so that as the motor drive unit translates toward the first mounting bracket, the first inclined surface of the buckle abuts the second inclined surface of the lock.

45. An electric curtain according to claim 44, wherein as the motor drive unit further translates along the longitudinal direction, the lock applies a force on the buckle along a transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, so that the buckle arm flexes along the transverse direction to enable the buckle to move into the cavity defined by the housing of the motor drive unit.

46. ​​The electric window shade of claim 45, wherein as the motor drive unit further translates along the longitudinal direction, the first inclined surface of the buckle extends beyond the second inclined surface of the lock buckle such that the first inclined surface does not abut the second inclined surface.

47. An electric window shade according to claim 46, wherein when the first inclined surface of the buckle extends beyond the second inclined surface of the lock, the buckle is configured to return to its original position relative to the housing.

48. The electric window shade of claim 47, wherein the first vertical surface of the buckle is configured to abut the second vertical surface of the lock buckle when the battery holder is installed in the housing to prevent the motor drive unit from being disengaged from the first mounting bracket.

49. The motorized window shade of claim 48, wherein when the motor drive unit moves along the longitudinal direction toward the second mounting bracket, the first vertical surface of the buckle abuts the second vertical surface of the lock buckle.

50. The motorized window covering of claim 45, wherein the battery holder is configured to be received within the cavity of the housing.

51. The motorized window covering of claim 50, wherein the snap arm is configured to flex into the cavity when the battery holder is removed from the motor drive unit.

52. The motorized window shade of claim 51, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the battery holder when the catch is returned to its original position relative to the housing.

53. The motorized window covering of claim 50, wherein the battery holder prevents the snap arm from flexing into the cavity when the battery holder is installed in the housing.

54. The motorized window shade of claim 42, further comprising a second mounting bracket configured to rotatably support an opposite end of the roller tube, wherein the second mounting bracket is configured to attach to the structure around the window.

55. A motor drive unit for an electric curtain, the motor drive unit comprising: a motor, the motor being configured to rotate the roller tube of the electric curtain; a control circuit configured to control the motor to adjust the flexible material of the motorized window covering between a raised position and a lowered position; a battery holder configured to hold one or more batteries to power the motor and the control circuit; a printed circuit board, the control circuit being mounted to the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being located between the battery holder and the motor; a switch mounted to the printed circuit board and electrically coupled to the control circuit such that the control circuit is responsive to actuation of the switch; as well as An actuation member is configured to convert a first force applied in a first direction at an end portion of the motor drive unit into a second force in a second direction, the second force being configured to actuate the switch.

56. A motor drive unit according to claim 55, wherein the actuating member includes a slender portion and a flexible member, the flexible member defines an actuating protrusion, the actuating protrusion is configured to actuate the switch, and the flexible portion is configured to flex and cause the actuating protrusion to actuate the switch in response to the first force applied to the slender portion along the longitudinal direction.

57. The motor drive unit of claim 56, wherein the actuation tab is configured to move in the transverse direction as the elongated portion moves in the longitudinal direction.

58. The motor drive unit of claim 57, wherein the flexible member is configured to press against an inner surface of a cavity to bias the actuation tab toward the switch.

59. A motor drive unit according to claim 58, wherein the flexible member defines a shaft configured to be retained by tabs on the inner surface.

60. The motor drive unit of claim 59, wherein the shaft is configured to rotate such that the actuation tab is movable in the lateral direction.

61. The motor drive unit of claim 60, wherein the flexible member is v-shaped having a first portion defining the axis and a second portion extending from the elongated portion.

62. The motor drive unit of claim 55, wherein the elongated portion includes a light pipe portion configured to extend proximate a light source mounted to the printed circuit board.

63. The motor drive unit of claim 62, wherein the light pipe portion is bent to transmit light emitted by the light source on the printed circuit board to the end portion of the motor drive unit.

64. The motor drive unit of claim 63, wherein the elongated portion is translucent.

65. The motor drive unit of claim 58, wherein the flexible member comprises a plurality of arms arranged in a diamond shape.

66. The motor drive unit of claim 65, wherein the flexible member is configured to flex at the intersection of adjacent arms when the first force is applied to the end portion.

67. The motor drive unit of claim 66, wherein the actuation bump is located at an intersection of two upper arms of the plurality of arms.

68. The motor drive unit of claim 67, wherein the flexible member defines a lower surface at an intersection of two lower arms of the plurality of arms.

69. The motor drive unit of claim 68, wherein the lower surface is configured to abut a lower surface of the cavity and the flexible member is configured to abut an inner surface of the cavity when the first force is applied to the end portion.

70. The motor drive unit of claim 58, wherein the flexible member comprises a cable configured to bend and having a stiffness that prevents buckling when the switch is actuated.

71. The motor drive unit of claim 70, wherein the actuation member includes a guide element defining a passage therethrough, the passage being configured to receive the flexible member.

72. The motor drive unit of claim 70, wherein the channel is curved such that the flexible member bends approximately 90 degrees from the longitudinal direction to the lateral direction.

73. The motor drive unit of claim 55, wherein the actuation member comprises an elongated portion, a wedge-shaped portion, and a flexible member.

74. The motor drive unit of claim 73, wherein the flexible member defines an actuation tab that moves in the lateral direction to actuate the switch as the elongated portion moves in the longitudinal direction.

75. The motor drive unit of claim 74, wherein the wedge-shaped portion defines a ramped surface configured to abut the flexible member.

76. The motor drive unit of claim 75, wherein the flexible member includes a base portion and a head portion attached to the base portion by a connection portion, the head portion defining a lower surface configured to slide along the inclined surface of the wedge-shaped portion.

77. The motor drive unit of claim 76, wherein the wedge portion is configured to bias the block portion in the transverse direction T in response to the first force in the longitudinal direction.

78. A motor drive unit according to claim 77, wherein the wedge-shaped portion is configured to apply the second force to the head portion to cause the actuating protrusion to move toward the switch along the transverse direction as the wedge-shaped portion moves toward the inner surface of the cavity along the longitudinal direction.

79. A motor drive unit according to claim 77, wherein the wedge-shaped portion is configured to apply the second force to the head portion to cause the actuation protrusion to move toward the switch along the transverse direction as the wedge-shaped portion moves away from the inner surface of the cavity along the longitudinal direction.

80. The motor drive unit of claim 58, wherein the flexible member includes a flexure portion, a base portion, and a connecting portion attaching the flexure portion to the base portion.

81. A motor drive unit according to claim 80, wherein the curved portion defines a first abutment surface, and wherein the elongated portion defines a second abutment surface, the second abutment surface being configured to abut the first abutment surface of the curved portion when the first force is applied to the end portion.

82. The motor drive unit of claim 81 , wherein the curved portion is configured to pivot about a fulcrum defined by attachment of the connecting portion to the base portion.

83. The motor drive unit of claim 82, wherein the flexure is curved so that the actuation bump is aligned with the switch.

84. The motor drive unit of claim 82, wherein the actuation tab defines an actuation surface that is substantially parallel to the switch.

85. The motor drive unit of claim 58, further comprising: a housing in which the motor and the printed circuit board are housed, the housing defining a cavity in which the battery holder is configured to be received; The elongated portion of the actuation member is configured to extend from the end portion of the motor drive unit adjacent the battery holder to the printed circuit board.

86. The motor drive unit of claim 85, wherein the housing defines a channel, the elongated portion being configured to extend in the channel from the end portion of the motor drive unit to the printed circuit board.

87. The motor drive unit of claim 86, wherein the actuation member further comprises: A plurality of feet extend from the elongated portion and are configured to secure the actuation member within the cavity.

88. A motor drive unit according to claim 87, wherein the shell includes a plurality of recesses, the plurality of recesses defining one or more holes extending from the cavity to the outer surface of the shell, each of the holes being configured to receive a corresponding one of the plurality of feet.

89. The motor drive unit of claim 88, wherein the plurality of recesses are configured such that each of the plurality of feet can translate within a corresponding recess of the plurality of recesses along the longitudinal direction.

90. The motor drive unit of claim 88, wherein each of the plurality of recesses defines a length that limits the distance the elongated portion can translate within the cavity along the longitudinal direction.

91. The motor drive unit of claim 55, wherein the elongated portion includes an actuation portion accessible at the end portion of the motor drive unit.

92. The electric window shade of claim 55, wherein the first direction is the longitudinal direction and the second direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

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