Connector and roller blind

Abstract

The present invention provides a connector (10) for coupling fabric (30) to a roller (20) with a roller channel (21) with an entrance extending axially along the roller (20). The connector (10) may be positioned in the roller channel (21). The cross-sectional shape of the connector (10) allows it to interact with the roller (20). Once in place in the roller channel (21), the coupling of the connector (10) to the roller (20) may be maintained due to the shape of the connector (10). The present invention may also provide a roller blind comprising the connector (10) and the roller (20).

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector for coupling fabric to a roller. The present invention also relates to a roller blind.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to a connector which can be used for coupling fabric to a roller. The connector can be used as part of a roller blind. The roller blind may be used to provide a covering for architectural features, such as windows, doorways, archways or the like.

[0003] The roller blind can be used to adjust the height of a fabric used for covering an architectural feature. The roller can be rotated around a longitudinal axis of the roller to wrap the fabric around the roller. This adjusts the length of unwrapped fabric extending from the roller, and thus alters the length of the covering provided. Therefore, rotation of the roller can be controlled to vary the length of the remaining (unwrapped) fabric, and thus alter the length of the covering provided.

[0004] It is known that means can be provided to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller. However, some means do not provide a secure connection, which means that when a large enough force is applied, particularly for example when the fabric is fully unrolled from the roller, the fabric may be pulled from the roller. Some means may provide a relatively secure connection when the fabric is being pulled in the expected direction, but do not secure against the fabric being pulled in an opposite direction, which may happen accidentally, for example during installation.

[0005] Thus, there is an advantage in providing means to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller in a reliable manner. In particular, it is beneficial to provide such means in a simple manner which can be easily manufactured. Additionally or alternatively, it is desirable that such means can be installed in the roller in a simple manner, for example, without the need for specific tools.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative connector for a connecting fabric to a roller. The connector will improve reliability of the connection to the roller whilst being relatively simple to install.

[0007] EP2,267,237 discloses a device which has a claw element for engaging with an edge of a rail and another claw element for engaging with another edge of the rail lying opposite to the former edge. The claw elements are connected by a flexible area. Each of the claw elements has a contact area which is intended to rest against one of the edges of the rail. The contact area is curved and has two free ends. When the device is inserted into the rail, the free ends come to lie on opposite sides of one of the edges of the rail. In the contact area, the claw elements are made of a stiffer material than in the flexible area. The shape of the contact area is adapted to the formation of the edges of the rail. To release the device, a lever can be inserted between an extension of one of the claw elements and the other claw element. The device can thus be reversibly snapped into the rail and released again from the rail.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller with a roller channel with an entrance extending axially along the roller, the connector having a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection at which a first end of the second wall is connected to the first wall between a first portion of the first wall for attaching to fabric and a second portion of the first wall, wherein the second wall and the third wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection at which a second end of the second wall is connected to a first end portion of the third wall, wherein the third wall and the fourth wall are at an acute angle to each other at a third connection at which a second end portion of the third wall is connected to a first end of the fourth wall, and the fourth wall is on one side of the third wall and the second wall is on the other side of the third wall, and wherein the second portion of the first wall, the second wall and the third wall form a first receiving section for receiving a first edge of the entrance of the roller channel, and the first portion of the first wall and the second wall form a second receiving section for receiving a second edge of the entrance of the roller channel.

[0009] The present invention also provides a roller blind comprising: a roller with a roller channel extending axially along the roller, the roller channel having an entrance in a longitudinal direction of the roller; and a connector.

[0010] Further embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of the various embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The various aspects, features, and embodiments of the architectural covering as disclosed herein will be better understood when read in conjunction with the drawings provided. Embodiments are provided in the drawings for the purposes of illustrating aspects, features and / or various embodiments of the connector or roller blind, but the claims should not be limited to the precise arrangement, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown, and the arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown may be used singularly or in combination with other arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices.

[0012] The drawings are not necessarily to scale and are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the claims, but are merely presented to illustrate and describe various embodiments, aspects, and features of the connector and / or roller blind to one of ordinary skill in the art. Figure 1 shows a roller blind of the present invention including a connector coupled to a roller; Figure 2 shows the connector of Figure 1 in further detail; Figure 3 shows the connector and the roller; Figures 4A-4C show how the connector can be inserted into the roller; and Figure 5 shows the connector coupled to the roller.

[0013] The features shown in the figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size and / or arrangement depicted is not limiting. It will be understood that the figures include optional features which may not be essential to the invention. Furthermore, not all of the features of the connector and / or roller blind are depicted in each of the figures, and the figures may only show some of the components relevant for a describing a particular feature.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] There are various ways in which fabric may be connected to a roller of a roller blind. A roller blind often comprises a roller, and some form of mechanism for attaching fabric to the roller. There are various advantages of being able to add the fabric to the roller blind without having to insert fabric or a connecting mechanism axially into the roller blind. The present invention provides a mechanism which allows a connector to be attached to a roller without having to insert the mechanism axially along the roller. This means that the fabric could be added to the roller blind after the roller has been fitted in place, for example.

[0015] Some mechanisms of connecting fabric to a roller are already known. It is desirable to provide an alternative to such known mechanisms. The present invention provides such an alternative connector which is suitable for coupling fabric to a roller.

[0016] The connector, which can otherwise be referred to as a fabric connector, and roller blind of the present invention is configured such that fabric can be connected to a roller by first attaching the fabric to a flange of the connector and subsequently assembling the connector into an open faced axially extending channel in an outer contour of the roller by inserting it laterally into the channel (as opposed to sliding it axially into the channel). Inserting means manipulating, such as for example pushing. The connector of the present invention may provide a reliable coupling with a roller, i.e. the connector may be difficult to remove from the roller when in place, in particular by simply pulling on the fabric and / or connector. More particularly, unwanted removal of the connector of the present invention from the roller may be very restricted, for instance, by hard pulling or reverse unrolling. However, as described below, the shape of the connector of the present invention allows the connector, and thus the fabric, to be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric or connector. This is beneficial in that fabric can be replaced on an installed blind without requiring removal of the roller. The connector of the present invention may be easy to install, e.g. the connector may be inserted into a roller channel in the roller as described below.

[0017] The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller. Thus, the connector is suitable to connect fabric to the roller. Furthermore, the connector may be configured to connect fabric to the roller, or may in fact have fabric attached to the connector. Coupling the fabric to the roller means that the connector can be used to connect the fabric to the roller. The connector itself provides the coupling. As will be described below, the shape of the connector is used to couple to the roller. This means that the connector interacts with the roller and is held in place relative to the roller due to the shape of the connector, and the fabric is to be connected to the connector. Thus, the connector can be used to couple fabric to the roller. The connector 10 coupled to a roller 20 is depicted in Figure 1. Figure 1 depicts the position of the connector in normal use. The arrow depicted in Figure 1 indicates the tension direction during normal use. The connector is shown in further detail in Figure 2, and Figure 3 shows the connector 10 and the roller 20.

[0018] The connector 10 is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller 20. More specifically, the connector 10 is configured to be assembled into a roller channel 21 in the roller 20. The connector 10 is suitable for coupling fabric 30 to the roller 20 having the roller channel 21 with an entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 extending axially along the roller 20. The roller channel 21 extends along the length of the roller 20. The roller channel 21 forms a space in which the connector 10 can be positioned. The roller channel 21 is an open-faced channel, i.e. having an opening. The entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 is formed as an opening along the roller 20. More specifically, as an opening in the outer contour of the roller 20. The entrance 22 extends along the length of the roller 20. A bottom 23 of the roller channel 21 is formed at the most radially inwards point of the roller channel 21. The bottom 23 of the roller channel 21 is be opposite the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. For example, the connector 10 may be inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller 20 and at least part of the connector 10 may be positioned within the roller 20.

[0019] The roller 20 may be substantially circular in cross-section. Thus, the outer contour of the roller 20 may be formed as a circle, with a gap forming the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. Theoretically, other cross-sectional shapes for the roller 20 could be used, such as an oval shape. However, the roller 20 is used by rotating about a longitudinal axis to raise and lower a fabric 30 when attached via the connector 10, and a circular cross-section is advantageous in order to allow the fabric 30 to be raised and lowered in a smooth manner.

[0020] The connector 10 is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller 20 due to its shape. The cross-sectional shape of the connector 10 allows it to interact with the roller 20 and keep it in place in the roller 20 when positioned in the roller channel 21.

[0021] The way in which the connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 is described in further detail below. Once in place in the roller channel 21, the position of the connector 10 may be maintained due to the shape of the connector 10. More specifically, parts of the connector 10 are shaped to interact with the roller 20 to restrict removal of the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 via the entrance 22. It will be noted that the connector 10 is generally fitted loosely in roller channel 21. This is beneficial because it allows fine tuning of the position of the connector 10, and thus the fabric 30, on the roller 20 after installation, and it also allows axial insertion of the connector 10 to roller 20 if desired.

[0022] The connector 10 has a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall 1, a second wall 2, a third wall 3, and a fourth wall 4. In other words, the cross-section shape of the connector 10 comprises the first wall 1, second wall 2, third wall 3 and fourth wall 4. Other walls might be provided in addition. Alternatively, the connector 10 may comprise only these wall. Figure 2 shows a detailed version of the connector.

[0023] The first wall 1 is connected to the second wall 2, the second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3, and the third wall 3 is connected to the fourth wall 4. The walls connected to each other may be described as adjacent walls which may be formed next to each other.

[0024] The first wall 1 and the second wall 2 are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection 7. The second wall 2 and the third wall 3 are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection 8. This first wall 1 and the third wall 3 may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0025] The first wall 1 is connected to the second wall 2 at the first connection 7 at which a first end 2A of the second wall 2 is connected to the first wall 1 between a first portion 1A of the first wall 1 and a second portion 1B of the first wall 1. In other words, one of the ends of the second wall 2 is connected to a part of the first wall 1 which is not at the end of the first wall 1. A portion of the first wall 1 extends on either side of the first connection 7. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 and / or the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a flange. The first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as an outer wall, or a top wall. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a first flange portion of the top wall. The second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a second flange portion of the top wall.

[0026] The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be suitable for attaching to fabric 30. In other words, when the fabric 30 is attached to the connector 10, it may be attached to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1. This may be done prior to, or after assembly of, the connector 10 to the roller 20. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 allows connection to the fabric 30 without compromising the coupling of the connector 10 to the roller 20. During normal use, as shown in Figure 1, the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be aligned on an outer circumference of the roller 20.

[0027] The second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3 at the second connection 8 at which a second end 2B of the second wall 2 is connected to a first end portion 3A of the third wall 3. In other words, another end of the second wall 2 (i.e. the end not connected to the first wall 1) is connected to the third wall 3. The second wall 2 is connected to a first end potion 3A of the third wall 3, meaning that the second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3 at or near the first end of the third wall 3. In other words, the second wall 2 may not be connected to the third wall 3 at the very end of the third wall 3. The second wall 2 may otherwise be referred to as a middle connector wall. The third wall 3 may otherwise be referred to as a bottom connector wall.

[0028] The third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are connected at a third connection 9 at which a second end portion 3B of the third wall 3 is connected to a first end 4A of the fourth wall 4. In other words, an end of the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 is connected to a second end portion 3B of the third wall 3, meaning that the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3 at or near the end of the third wall 3. In other words, the fourth wall 4 may not be connected to the third wall 3 at the very end of the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may otherwise be referred to as a locking flange.

[0029] The third wall 3 is connected to the fourth wall 4 at an acute angle α to each other. Thus, the angle α formed between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is less than 90°. The angle α is the angle at the point of the connection between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4. The angle α is sharp enough to obtain a sharp shape which is narrow enough to insert into opening 22. In an embodiment, the angle α between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is less than 60°, or less than 55°, or less than 50°, or less than 45°, or less than 40°, or less than 30°. In an embodiment, the angle between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is between 15° and 60°, or between 40° and 50°. The angle α described here is the angle when the connector 10 is not compressed, for example, when the connector 10 is outside of the roller channel 21. As described in more detail below, the angle α between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be reduced when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller 20, i.e. during the connector being inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 and possibly even when in place in the roller channel 21.

[0030] The end of the third wall 3, where the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 meet, may form a point. This point may be like a sharp-angled triangle which triangle may be 'sharp'-angled enough to allow inserting the connector 10 into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. The third connection 9, which is the point where the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 meet, may thus be formed as a solid triangle . This may be considered as a sharp ridge at the end of the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4.

[0031] The acute angle at which the fourth wall 4 extends away from the third wall 3 may be determined by the fact that the total height of the connector 10 is preferably less than the depth of roller channel 21, as described further below.

[0032] As described above, the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 extends from the third wall 3 at the acute angle α to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 is positioned on the other side of the third wall 3 to the first wall 1. For example, as shown in the figures, the first wall 1 is above the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is below the third wall 3. The first wall 1 and the fourth wall 4 may be formed at opposite ends of the connector 10 to each other.

[0033] The second wall 2 is on one side of the third wall 3 (e.g. above the third wall 3 as shown in the figures) and the fourth wall 4 is on the other side of the third wall 3 (e.g. below the third wall 3 as shown in the figures). In other words, the fourth wall 4 is positioned on the other side of the third wall 3 to the second connection 8 between second wall 2 and third wall 3.

[0034] The third wall 3 has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the second wall 2 is connected to the first surface of the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is connected to second surface of the third wall 3. In other words, the third wall 3 comprises of a top surface which is connected to the second wall 2, and the third wall 3 comprises a bottom surface which is connected to the fourth wall 4. Thus, the second wall 2 and the fourth wall 4 are connected to opposite surfaces of the third wall 3. In the figures, the first surface of the third wall 3 may be an upper surface and the second surface of the third wall 3 may be a lower surface.

[0035] The second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is a free end. The second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is a free end with respect to the other walls of the connector 10 as herein described. Thus, the free end of the fourth wall 4 is not connected to any of the first wall 1, the second wall 2, and the third wall 3.

[0036] A first receiving section 5 is formed for receiving a first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21, the first receiving section 5 of the connector 10 can interact with a part of the roller 20, in particular, with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. Thus, the first receiving section 5 may abut the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 in some positions of the connector 10. The first receiving section 5 may otherwise be referred to as first connector channel. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may be the left side of the channel entrance 22, as shown in Figure 3. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may otherwise be referred to as a first roller channel rim.

[0037] A second receiving section 6 is formed for receiving a second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 of the connector 10 can interact with a part of the roller 20, in particular, with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. Thus, the second receiving section 6 may abut the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 in some positions of the connector 10. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 is opposite the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. In other words, the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 may form the opening into the roller channel 21. The second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may be the right side of the channel entrance 22, as shown in Figure 3.

[0038] It will be noted that the interaction between the connector 10 and the roller 20 will depend on the position of the connector 10 relative to the roller 20. For example, when the connector 10 is being inserted into the roller channel 21, the first receiving section 5 may be in contact with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. However, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller channel 21, i.e. the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21 for use, the first receiving section 5 may no longer interact with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. On the other hand, when the connector 10 is being inserted into the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 may not be in contact with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. However, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 may interact with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. In other words, the first receiving section 5 and the second receiving section 6 are suitable to receive the relevant parts of the roller 20, but are not necessarily in contact with parts of the roller 20 as the interaction will depend on the position of the connector 10 relative to the roller 20.

[0039] The first receiving section 5 is formed by the second portion of the first wall 1, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3. The first surface of the third wall 3 may form part of the first receiving section 5. The first receiving section 5 is formed longitudinally along the connector 10, i.e. along the length of the connector 10. The first receiving section 5 is formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the first edge 24 of the roller channel 21. The first receiving section 5 forms an open channel. The first receiving section 5 may be substantially U-shaped.

[0040] The second receiving section 6 may be formed by the first portion of the first wall 1 and the second wall 2. The second receiving section 6 may be formed longitudinally along the connector 10, i.e. along the length of the connector 10. The second receiving section 6 may be formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21. The second receiving section 6 may form an open channel. The second receiving section 6 may form an L-shape. The shape of the receiving section may be curved inwards. In particular, the second wall 2 may have a first surface 2C on the side of the second wall 2 adjacent to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 which forms part of the second receiving section 6, as shown in Figure 2. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may have a concave shape. Thus, the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be concave with respect to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1. It may be particularly beneficial that the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 is concave to align the second receiving section 6 with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. The first surface 2C of the second portion may be concave which may be advantageous because the edge of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 will likely be formed by bending which will be curved (convex), and will thus mean that the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 fit together better.

[0041] Although the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 having a concave shape is preferable, it is not a necessity. For example, the first surface 2C might be substantially straight. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be shaped such that, the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 reduces or restricts movement of the second wall 2. As such, the second wall 2 can act as an anchor to withstand deformation when there is high loading exerted by the fabric 30 onto the connector 10. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be shaped such that, at the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21, an angle between an imaginary tangent at the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and an imaginary tangent at the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 is less than 90 degrees. This may be particularly important when the first surface 2C is straight. If the angle is bigger than 90 degrees, it might cause the connector 10 to "climb" upwards due to the force acting on the connector 10 by the fabric 30.

[0042] It will be noted that when the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, that the connector 10 position may change depending on the forces applied to the connector 10 as described below. Therefore, the connector 10 may not be in a fixed position within the roller channel 21. This means that the interaction between the connector 10 and the first or second edge 25 will depend on the position of the connector 10. Even when not directly touching the first or second edge 25, the first receiving portion and the second receiving section 6 may be suitable for, and even configured to, receive the first edge 24 and the second edge 25 respectively.

[0043] In order to couple the connector 10 to the roller 20, the connector 10 can be inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. During this process, described in further detail below, parts of the connector 10 may move relative to each other to allow the connector 10 to be inserted through the opening forming the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. When the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least part of the connector 10 may be placed within the roller channel 21 and at least part of the connector 10 may be positioned outside of the roller channel 21. The connector 10 may be compressed during coupling, and may return towards its original shape when most of the connector 10 is within the roller channel 21. When coupled to the roller 20, the connector 10 may return to its original shape inside the roller channel 21.

[0044] Generally, the roller channel 21 is wider in cross-section than the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 This means that the roller channel 21 has a smaller, i.e. narrower, opening than the space in the roller channel 21. The roller channel 21 may be any appropriate shape. The connector 10 as described herein can be used in combination with a variety of shapes and sizes of roller channel 21 and roller 20. This means that the connector 10 can be used, and will fit into the roller channel of, a wide variety of rollers 20, including many of those already on the market (and those not yet on the market).

[0045] The connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 by inserting, such as by pushing, the connector 10 into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 20. The connector 10 starts on the outside of the roller 20 as shown in Figure 3. The connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 as follows: Step 1: Orient the connector 10 so that first receiving portion interacts with, e.g. grips, the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 as shown in Figure 4A. In this position, the second portion of the first wall 1 is positioned on the outside of the roller channel 21 and at least part of the third wall 3 is positioned inside the roller channel 21. Step 2: Insert the connector 10 into the roller channel 21, for example, by pushing on the first wall 1 in an area similar to the first connection 7, i.e. at around the location of the second wall 2. As the connector 10 is inserted, the fourth wall 4 will move towards the third wall 3 as shown in Figure 4A, so that the connector 10 fits through the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. As the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is moved past the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21, i.e. the fourth wall 4 is inserted into the roller channel 21, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. Step 3: Release the connector 10. At least the first portion of the first wall 1 is positioned outside of the roller channel 21 and the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are positioned inside of the roller channel 21. The fourth wall 4 flexes back to its original position relative to the third wall 3, as shown in Figures 4B and 4C. Step 4: Pull on the first portion of the first wall 1 (and / or the fabric 30 if connected to the connector 10). This is shown by arrow A in Figure 4C. The first portion of the first wall 1 (and / or the fabric 30 if connected) should be pulled in a direction which pulls the connector 10 towards the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21.

[0046] During coupling the connector 10 to the roller 20, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are moved towards one another to facilitate assembly with the roller 20. Specifically, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 being moved towards one another reduces the distance between these walls, which facilitates assembly with the roller 20. In other words, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may move closer together when the connector 10 is being inserted, e.g. pushed, into the roller 20. The fourth wall 4 and the third wall 3 may be pinched completely together or to at least some degree. When the distance between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is reduced, the size of the acute angle is reduced. The reduced distance between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 (when pushed together) and the sharp point of third connection 9 allow the connector 10 to be inserted through the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21.

[0047] The fourth wall 4 extends away from the third wall 3 at the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 (i.e. at the third connection 9), and extends towards the third wall 3 at the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4. This variation in shape of the fourth wall 4 guides the connector 10 in a rotating movement when the connector 10 is being inserted into the entrance 22.

[0048] In this embodiment, the fourth wall 4 may be curved. In particular, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 may be curved towards to first wall 1. In other words, the second end 4B of fourth wall 4 may be curved towards the third wall 3. In other words, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 bends towards the third wall 3 and the first wall 1. Thus, an inner surface of the curved fourth wall 4 faces the third wall 3. Thus, the inner surface of the fourth wall 4 forms a concave surface. In other words, the fourth wall 4 is curved upwards in the drawings.

[0049] In this embodiment, the fourth wall 4 may not be curved, but may be formed of smaller portions of wall, e.g. comprising two straight portions. Such as a first straight portion extending away from the third wall 3 at the third connection 9, and a second straight portion extending towards the third wall 3 at the free end of the fourth wall 4.

[0050] Providing the fourth wall 4 as a curved wall as described is beneficial in that it allows for easier assembly of the connector 10 in the channel, because the shape of the fourth wall 4 assists in moving the fourth wall 4 towards the third wall 3 when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. This is shown in figures 4A-4C which illustrates how the curved shape of the fourth wall 4 facilitate assembly of the connector 10 in the channel. Also, when in place in the roller channel 21, the curved wall better resists the connector 10 being pulled out of the roller channel 21 through the entrance 22 due to the interaction between second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 and the inside of the roller channel 21, as described in further detail in relation to Figure 5. The curved fourth wall acts as a barb resisting to be pulled through entrance 22 of the roller channel 21.

[0051] Additionally or alternatively, the third wall 3 is curved. In particular, the first end portion of the third wall 3 may be curved towards to first wall 1. In other words, the third wall 3 is curved towards the second wall 2. In other words, the first end 3A of the third wall 3 bends towards the second wall 2 and / or the first wall 1. In other words, the third wall 3 is curved upwards in the drawings. The third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be curved in substantially the same direction.

[0052] In an embodiment, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 projects beyond the second wall 2. Thus, the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 is connected to one end of the third wall 3, in the second end portion 3B of the third wall 3, and the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 extends beyond another end of the third wall 3, at the first end portion 3A of the third wall 3. This means that the fourth wall 4 extends past the second connection 8. This means that when the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, the fourth wall 4 is extends out past the second wall 2 and can prevent the connector 10 from passing through the entrance 22 in the roller channel 21. This is also the case when the fourth wall is straight instead of curved. Therefore, the dimension of the fourth wall 4 may reduce or prevent the connector 10 from being released from the roller channel 21 through entrance 22. The fourth wall 4 may be longer than the third wall 3.

[0053] In an embodiment, the fourth wall 4 has a length greater than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in that the connector 10 can be inserted into the roller channel 21 due to a combination of features such as the acute angle α and first receiving section 5, and then when the connector 10 is in place, the fourth wall 4 makes it difficult or impossible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 because these fourth wall 4 is wider than the opening.

[0054] The third wall 3 may be longer than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in that the third wall 3 can assist in making it difficult or impossible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 as described in relation to the fourth wall 4.

[0055] Since the third wall 3 and / or the fourth wall 4 are longer than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 as described above, it may not be possible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 via the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. It may be possible to remove the connector 10 from the roller 20 channel by sliding the connector 10 axially out of the roller channel 21. In this manner the fabric 30 is reliably coupled to the roller 20 via the connector 10 during normal use (e.g. when the fabric 30 may be pulled around the roller 20), but still allows the connector 10 and / or fabric 30 to be replaced if preferred.

[0056] The first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be integral, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be integral, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be integral. In other words, the first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be formed of one piece of material, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be formed of one piece of material, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be formed of one piece of material. Alternatively, the first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive.

[0057] The connector 10 may be formed by injection molding or 3-D printing. In this case, the connector 10 would likely be formed as a single piece (i.e. with the walls being integral to one another). The connector 10 may be formed by extrusion, e.g. by one tough polymer extruded material. The connector 10 may be formed by co-extrusion of polymers with different hardnesses. For example in this case, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 are semi-rigid or rigid material, which is beneficial due to their load bearing capacity, and the first wall 1 and the fourth wall 4 are semi-rigid or flexible material.

[0058] The thickness of the walls may vary. Alternatively, the thickness of the walls may be substantially uniform. If one of the walls is thinner than another wall, it may be more flexible, or prone to bending, for example, when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. Of course, this depends on the material used for the walls. The fourth wall 4 may be thinner than the third wall 3 to allow the fourth wall 4 to flex towards the third wall 3. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth wall 4 may be made of a more flexible material than the third wall 3 to allow the fourth wall 4 to flex towards the third wall 3. The second portion of the first wall 1, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 (which form the first receiving section 5) may be thicker than other parts of the connector 10, such as the first portion of the first wall 1 and / or the fourth wall 4. This may allow deformation of the first receiving section 5 to be reduced or avoided.

[0059] As described, the fourth wall 4 has some degree of flexibility which allows it to move relative to the third wall 3. This is beneficial when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. However, it is also beneficial if the connector 10 is to be removed (purposefully) from the roller channel 21. Specifically, as described, the shape of the connector 10 prevents or restricts unwanted removal of the connector, i.e. due to forces applied during normal and abnormal use as described. However, the connector 10 can be removed by a user by moving the connector such that the first receiving section 5 moves towards the first edge 24 of the entrance 22, then pulling the connector to pull the second wall 2 through the opening 22, pulling the third connection 9 through the opening 22 and finally removing the fourth wall 4 from the roller channel 21. Thus, as mentioned above, fabric 30 can be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric 30 or the connector 10, which allows replacement of the fabric on an installed roller 20 without needing to unmount the roller 20.

[0060] Any appropriate material may be used for the connector 10. The connector 10 may be formed of an elastomer material. Any or all of the first wall 1, second wall 2, third wall 3 and / or fourth wall 4 may be formed of the same material. At least the first portion of the first wall 1 may be relatively soft, e.g. formed of a soft elastomer, so that it reduces or prevents marks on the fabric 30 when the connector 10 is in place. The same may apply to the second portion of the first wall 1. The second portion of the first wall 1 may be tough, rigid or flexible The second wall 2 and / or the third wall 3 may be rigid plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic polymer, or a tough elastomer in order to maintain the second connection 8 between these two walls, and thus maintain the form of the first receiving section 5. The fourth wall 4 may be formed of a different material to the other walls, and particularly the second wall 2 and the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may be a flexible elastomer which may be beneficial in allowing flexing of the fourth wall 4 relative to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may be formed of a material with a greater resistance to indentation (i.e. with a higher shore durometer value) than the material used for the other walls.

[0061] The shape of the connector 10 in cross-section may be substantially uniform along the length of the connector 10. In other words, the profile of the connector 10 may be uniform along the length of the connector 10. This means that the cross-section may be the same along the whole connector 10. The connector 10 may be formed by any appropriate method, including those described above, e.g. 3-D printing, injection molding, extrusion, or co-extrusion (which means that the walls may be formed of different materials).

[0062] The connector 10 may comprise fabric 30. Thus, the fabric 30 may be attached to the connector, for example as shown in Figure 3. Any appropriate fabric 30 may be used. The fabric 30 may be used to form a blind of a blind roller 20. The fabric 30 may be attached to the first portion of the first wall 1. The fabric 30 may be attached to the connector 10 by any appropriate means, for example, by adhesive, sewing, melting, tacking, welding, etc.. In an embodiment, welding, particularly high frequency or thermal welding may be used, or sewing for non-weldable fabrics. In an embodiment, the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be coated with a weldable adhesive layer to allow non-weldable fabrics to be attached to the adhesive layer. Fabric 30 maybe any type of fabric which may be woven, non-woven, knitted and natural or synthetic material. As stated above the fabric 30 may be attached prior to, or after, the assembly of the connector 10 to a roller 20.

[0063] In the present invention, a roller blind may be provided. The roller blind may comprise the roller 20 as described above, i.e. the roller 20 having a roller channel 21 extending axially along the roller 20, the roller channel 21 having an entrance 22 in a longitudinal direction of the roller 20. The roller 20 may include any of the variations discussed above. The roller blind may include the connector 10 as described in any of the above variations.

[0064] After the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, any force applied to wind the fabric 30 in the expected direction about the roller during normal use would result in a force being applied on the connector by the fabric, i.e. in the direction of arrow A. This pulls the connector 10 towards the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. towards the right in Figure 4C), and results in the second receiving portion 6 abutting the second edge 25 of the entrance of the roller 21. Also, the first end portion 3A and the second end portion 3B of the third wall 3 will then interact with the inside of the roller channel 21. The third wall 3 may effectively close the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 in that the first end of the third wall 3 abuts the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the right hand side in Figure 4C) and in that the second end of the third wall 3 is in contact with the inside of the roller channel 21 on an opposite side of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the left hand side in Figure 4C).

[0065] After the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, the fabric may be pulled in a direction opposite to the expected direction during normal use, i.e. in the direction of arrow B in Figure 5. This may happen by accident, for example, during installation of the roller (for instance while the end position of motor is being set), i.e. Figure 5 shows abnormal use. When the connector 10 is pulled towards the first edge 24 of the roller channel 21 in this way (i.e. towards the left as in Figure 5), this results in the first receiving section 5 abutting the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. This also results in the first end and the second end of the fourth wall 4 interacting with the inside of the roller channel 21 as shown in Figure 5. The fourth wall 4 may effectively close the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 in that the first end of the fourth wall 4 is in contact with an inside of the roller channel 21 on the same side as the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the left hand side in the figures) and in that the second end of the fourth wall 4 is in contact with the inside of the roller channel 21 on an opposite side of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the right hand side in the figures). Thus, Figure 5 displays the locking capacity of the connector 10 under reverse winding.

[0066] Thus, no matter which direction the fabric 30 and / or connector 10 is pulled in after being coupled to the roller, the third wall 3 and / or the fourth wall 4 may effectively prevent the connector 10 from being removed from the roller 20 via entrance 22.

[0067] In an embodiment, the roller channel 21 is wider in cross-section than the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. As described above, this provides space for the connector 10 when coupled to the roller 20 so that the roller 20 can keep the connector 10 in place in the roller channel 21.

[0068] In an embodiment, a height of the connector 10 is less than a total height of the roller channel 21.

[0069] In an embodiment, second portion 1B of first wall 1 may extend across the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20. This means that the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may go from one side of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 to substantially the other side of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may bridge the opening of the roller channel 21. Thus, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may cover the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may substantially close off the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in providing a more uniform surface of the combined connector 10 and roller 20 because the gap at the entrance 22 is reduced in size, or closed. This is beneficial in that the fabric 30 when in position is less likely to enter into the roller channel 21, which may cause a mark on the surface of the fabric 30 when rolled over the roller 20. The second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may provide resistance to the fabric 30 over the roller 20 so that marks in the fabric 30 are reduced or avoided.

[0070] The second portion 1B of first wall 1 may bend a bit, for example during installation, as shown in Figure 4A, or during abnormal use, as shown in Figure 5. As described above, any appropriate material may be selected for the connector 10, and in particular, for the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 to allow this bending.

[0071] In an embodiment, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 reaches the opposite side of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21, and preferably overlaps onto the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller 20. This may be beneficial in ensuring a reliable connection. This is also beneficial in that it prevents fabric 30 from entering into the roller channel 21 which would otherwise result in a larger mark on the fabric 30 than is caused by any overlap. Preferably, the thickness of the second portion 1B of wall 1 is tapered towards the end (i.e. thinner at the end), to reduce any mark in the fabric 30 caused by the overlap.

[0072] When the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least a part of the connector 10 is within the roller channel 21, which is beneficial in that when a force is applied which might remove the connector 10 (for example, if a force is applied to pull on the fabric 30), the parts of the connector 10 can interact with an inside of the roller channel 21 to prevent the connector 10 from being pulled out of the roller channel 21. In an embodiment, at least the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 of the connector 10 are positioned within the roller channel 21 as these walls may be particularly beneficial in resisting removal of the connector 10 from the roller channel 21. In an embodiment, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least a part of the connector 10 is outside of the roller channel 21. This means that fabric 30 could be provided to the connector 10 after the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20 if desired, for example, if a fabric 30 is to be replaced. In an embodiment least the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 is outside of the roller channel 21, which can thus be connected to fabric 30. The first wall 1, and particularly, at least the first portion 1A of the first wall 1, may follow the outer contour of the roller 20 as shown in Figure 1.

[0073] Some features of the connector 10 are described in relation to, or combination with the roller 20. It will be understood that although the connector 10 may be coupled to the roller 20 as described, the connector 10 may be provided separately and thus, may not be provided with the roller 20.

[0074] It will be described that the connector 10 and / or roller 20 are described in some orientations in relation to the drawings provided. Of course, the connector 10 and / or roller 20 could be provided in any appropriate orientation. The description relating to the orientation shown in the drawings is for clearly describing the features of the invention, but are not limiting on the invention. Thus, any reference to above and below, etc. are understood to mean in the context of the drawings provided.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the connector and / or roller blind may have many applications, may be implemented in various manners and, as such is not to be limited by the foregoing embodiments and examples. Any number of the features of the different embodiments described herein may be combined into a single embodiment. Alternate embodiments are possible that have features in addition to those described herein or may have less than all the features described. Functionality may also be, in whole or in part, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or to become known.

[0076] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. While fundamental features of the invention have been shown and described in exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the disclosed embodiments of the connector and / or roller blind may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the invention covers conventionally known, and future-developed variations and modifications to the components described herein as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0077] In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements, features, or steps. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements, or method steps may be implemented by, e.g., a single unit, element, or piece. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may advantageously be combined, and their inclusion individually in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc., do not preclude a plurality. Reference signs or characters in the disclosure and / or claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

[0078] The foregoing description has broad application. It should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may apply to many types of connector and / or roller blind, in addition to those described and depicted herein. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]There are various ways in which fabric may be connected to a roller of a roller blind. A roller blind often comprises a roller, and some form of mechanism for attaching fabric to the roller. There are various advantages of being able to add the fabric to the roller blind without having to insert fabric or a connecting mechanism axially into the roller blind. The present invention provides a mechanism which allows a connector to be attached to a roller without having to insert the mechanism axially along the roller. This means that the fabric could be added to the roller blind after the roller has been fitted in place, for example.

[0015]Some mechanisms of connecting fabric to a roller are already known. It is desirable to provide an alternative to such known mechanisms. The present invention provides such an alternative connector which is suitable for coupling fabric to a roller.

[0016]The connector, which can otherwise be referred to as a fabric connector, and roller blind of t...

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a connector for coupling fabric to a roller. The present invention also relates to a roller blind.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to a connector which can be used for coupling fabric to a roller. The connector can be used as part of a roller blind. The roller blind may be used to provide a covering for architectural features, such as windows, doorways, archways or the like.

[0003] The roller blind can be used to adjust the height of a fabric used for covering an architectural feature. The roller can be rotated around a longitudinal axis of the roller to wrap the fabric around the roller. This adjusts the length of unwrapped fabric extending from the roller, and thus alters the length of the covering provided. Therefore, rotation of the roller can be controlled to vary the length of the remaining (unwrapped) fabric, and thus alter the length of the covering provided.

[0004] It is known that means can be provided to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller. However, some means do not provide a secure connection, which means that when a large enough force is applied, particularly for example when the fabric is fully unrolled from the roller, the fabric may be pulled from the roller. Some means may provide a relatively secure connection when the fabric is being pulled in the expected direction, but do not secure against the fabric being pulled in an opposite direction, which may happen accidentally, for example during installation.

[0005] Thus, there is an advantage in providing means to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller in a reliable manner. In particular, it is beneficial to provide such means in a simple manner which can be easily manufactured. Additionally or alternatively, it is desirable that such means can be installed in the roller in a simple manner, for example, without the need for specific tools.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative connector for a connecting fabric to a roller. The connector will improve reliability of the connection to the roller whilst being relatively simple to install.

[0007] EP2,267,237 discloses a device which has a claw element for engaging with an edge of a rail and another claw element for engaging with another edge of the rail lying opposite to the former edge. The claw elements are connected by a flexible area. Each of the claw elements has a contact area which is intended to rest against one of the edges of the rail. The contact area is curved and has two free ends. When the device is inserted into the rail, the free ends come to lie on opposite sides of one of the edges of the rail. In the contact area, the claw elements are made of a stiffer material than in the flexible area. The shape of the contact area is adapted to the formation of the edges of the rail. To release the device, a lever can be inserted between an extension of one of the claw elements and the other claw element. The device can thus be reversibly snapped into the rail and released again from the rail.SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller with a roller channel with an entrance extending axially along the roller, the connector having a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection at which a first end of the second wall is connected to the first wall between a first portion of the first wall for attaching to fabric and a second portion of the first wall, wherein the second wall and the third wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection at which a second end of the second wall is connected to a first end portion of the third wall, wherein the third wall and the fourth wall are at an acute angle to each other at a third connection at which a second end portion of the third wall is connected to a first end of the fourth wall, and the fourth wall is on one side of the third wall and the second wall is on the other side of the third wall, and wherein the second portion of the first wall, the second wall and the third wall form a first receiving section for receiving a first edge of the entrance of the roller channel, and the first portion of the first wall and the second wall form a second receiving section for receiving a second edge of the entrance of the roller channel.

[0009] The present invention also provides a roller blind comprising: a roller with a roller channel extending axially along the roller, the roller channel having an entrance in a longitudinal direction of the roller; and a connector.

[0010] Further embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of the various embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The various aspects, features, and embodiments of the architectural covering as disclosed herein will be better understood when read in conjunction with the drawings provided. Embodiments are provided in the drawings for the purposes of illustrating aspects, features and / or various embodiments of the connector or roller blind, but the claims should not be limited to the precise arrangement, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown, and the arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown may be used singularly or in combination with other arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices.

[0012] The drawings are not necessarily to scale and are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the claims, but are merely presented to illustrate and describe various embodiments, aspects, and features of the connector and / or roller blind to one of ordinary skill in the art. Figure 1 shows a roller blind of the present invention including a connector coupled to a roller; Figure 2 shows the connector of Figure 1 in further detail; Figure 3 shows the connector and the roller; Figures 4A-4C show how the connector can be inserted into the roller; and Figure 5 shows the connector coupled to the roller.

[0013] The features shown in the figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size and / or arrangement depicted is not limiting. It will be understood that the figures include optional features which may not be essential to the invention. Furthermore, not all of the features of the connector and / or roller blind are depicted in each of the figures, and the figures may only show some of the components relevant for a describing a particular feature.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] There are various ways in which fabric may be connected to a roller of a roller blind. A roller blind often comprises a roller, and some form of mechanism for attaching fabric to the roller. There are various advantages of being able to add the fabric to the roller blind without having to insert fabric or a connecting mechanism axially into the roller blind. The present invention provides a mechanism which allows a connector to be attached to a roller without having to insert the mechanism axially along the roller. This means that the fabric could be added to the roller blind after the roller has been fitted in place, for example.

[0015] Some mechanisms of connecting fabric to a roller are already known. It is desirable to provide an alternative to such known mechanisms. The present invention provides such an alternative connector which is suitable for coupling fabric to a roller.

[0016] The connector, which can otherwise be referred to as a fabric connector, and roller blind of the present invention is configured such that fabric can be connected to a roller by first attaching the fabric to a flange of the connector and subsequently assembling the connector into an open faced axially extending channel in an outer contour of the roller by inserting it laterally into the channel (as opposed to sliding it axially into the channel). Inserting means manipulating, such as for example pushing. The connector of the present invention may provide a reliable coupling with a roller, i.e. the connector may be difficult to remove from the roller when in place, in particular by simply pulling on the fabric and / or connector. More particularly, unwanted removal of the connector of the present invention from the roller may be very restricted, for instance, by hard pulling or reverse unrolling. However, as described below, the shape of the connector of the present invention allows the connector, and thus the fabric, to be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric or connector. This is beneficial in that fabric can be replaced on an installed blind without requiring removal of the roller. The connector of the present invention may be easy to install, e.g. the connector may be inserted into a roller channel in the roller as described below.

[0017] The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller. Thus, the connector is suitable to connect fabric to the roller. Furthermore, the connector may be configured to connect fabric to the roller, or may in fact have fabric attached to the connector. Coupling the fabric to the roller means that the connector can be used to connect the fabric to the roller. The connector itself provides the coupling. As will be described below, the shape of the connector is used to couple to the roller. This means that the connector interacts with the roller and is held in place relative to the roller due to the shape of the connector, and the fabric is to be connected to the connector. Thus, the connector can be used to couple fabric to the roller. The connector 10 coupled to a roller 20 is depicted in Figure 1. Figure 1 depicts the position of the connector in normal use. The arrow depicted in Figure 1 indicates the tension direction during normal use. The connector is shown in further detail in Figure 2, and Figure 3 shows the connector 10 and the roller 20.

[0018] The connector 10 is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller 20. More specifically, the connector 10 is configured to be assembled into a roller channel 21 in the roller 20. The connector 10 is suitable for coupling fabric 30 to the roller 20 having the roller channel 21 with an entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 extending axially along the roller 20. The roller channel 21 extends along the length of the roller 20. The roller channel 21 forms a space in which the connector 10 can be positioned. The roller channel 21 is an open-faced channel, i.e. having an opening. The entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 is formed as an opening along the roller 20. More specifically, as an opening in the outer contour of the roller 20. The entrance 22 extends along the length of the roller 20. A bottom 23 of the roller channel 21 is formed at the most radially inwards point of the roller channel 21. The bottom 23 of the roller channel 21 is be opposite the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. For example, the connector 10 may be inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller 20 and at least part of the connector 10 may be positioned within the roller 20.

[0019] The roller 20 may be substantially circular in cross-section. Thus, the outer contour of the roller 20 may be formed as a circle, with a gap forming the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. Theoretically, other cross-sectional shapes for the roller 20 could be used, such as an oval shape. However, the roller 20 is used by rotating about a longitudinal axis to raise and lower a fabric 30 when attached via the connector 10, and a circular cross-section is advantageous in order to allow the fabric 30 to be raised and lowered in a smooth manner.

[0020] The connector 10 is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller 20 due to its shape. The cross-sectional shape of the connector 10 allows it to interact with the roller 20 and keep it in place in the roller 20 when positioned in the roller channel 21.

[0021] The way in which the connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 is described in further detail below. Once in place in the roller channel 21, the position of the connector 10 may be maintained due to the shape of the connector 10. More specifically, parts of the connector 10 are shaped to interact with the roller 20 to restrict removal of the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 via the entrance 22. It will be noted that the connector 10 is generally fitted loosely in roller channel 21. This is beneficial because it allows fine tuning of the position of the connector 10, and thus the fabric 30, on the roller 20 after installation, and it also allows axial insertion of the connector 10 to roller 20 if desired.

[0022] The connector 10 has a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall 1, a second wall 2, a third wall 3, and a fourth wall 4. In other words, the cross-section shape of the connector 10 comprises the first wall 1, second wall 2, third wall 3 and fourth wall 4. Other walls might be provided in addition. Alternatively, the connector 10 may comprise only these wall. Figure 2 shows a detailed version of the connector.

[0023] The first wall 1 is connected to the second wall 2, the second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3, and the third wall 3 is connected to the fourth wall 4. The walls connected to each other may be described as adjacent walls which may be formed next to each other.

[0024] The first wall 1 and the second wall 2 are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection 7. The second wall 2 and the third wall 3 are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection 8. This first wall 1 and the third wall 3 may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0025] The first wall 1 is connected to the second wall 2 at the first connection 7 at which a first end 2A of the second wall 2 is connected to the first wall 1 between a first portion 1A of the first wall 1 and a second portion 1B of the first wall 1. In other words, one of the ends of the second wall 2 is connected to a part of the first wall 1 which is not at the end of the first wall 1. A portion of the first wall 1 extends on either side of the first connection 7. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 and / or the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a flange. The first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as an outer wall, or a top wall. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a first flange portion of the top wall. The second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may otherwise be referred to as a second flange portion of the top wall.

[0026] The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be suitable for attaching to fabric 30. In other words, when the fabric 30 is attached to the connector 10, it may be attached to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1. This may be done prior to, or after assembly of, the connector 10 to the roller 20. The first portion 1A of the first wall 1 allows connection to the fabric 30 without compromising the coupling of the connector 10 to the roller 20. During normal use, as shown in Figure 1, the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be aligned on an outer circumference of the roller 20.

[0027] The second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3 at the second connection 8 at which a second end 2B of the second wall 2 is connected to a first end portion 3A of the third wall 3. In other words, another end of the second wall 2 (i.e. the end not connected to the first wall 1) is connected to the third wall 3. The second wall 2 is connected to a first end potion 3A of the third wall 3, meaning that the second wall 2 is connected to the third wall 3 at or near the first end of the third wall 3. In other words, the second wall 2 may not be connected to the third wall 3 at the very end of the third wall 3. The second wall 2 may otherwise be referred to as a middle connector wall. The third wall 3 may otherwise be referred to as a bottom connector wall.

[0028] The third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are connected at a third connection 9 at which a second end portion 3B of the third wall 3 is connected to a first end 4A of the fourth wall 4. In other words, an end of the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 is connected to a second end portion 3B of the third wall 3, meaning that the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3 at or near the end of the third wall 3. In other words, the fourth wall 4 may not be connected to the third wall 3 at the very end of the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may otherwise be referred to as a locking flange.

[0029] The third wall 3 is connected to the fourth wall 4 at an acute angle α to each other. Thus, the angle α formed between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is less than 90°. The angle α is the angle at the point of the connection between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4. The angle α is sharp enough to obtain a sharp shape which is narrow enough to insert into opening 22. In an embodiment, the angle α between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is less than 60°, or less than 55°, or less than 50°, or less than 45°, or less than 40°, or less than 30°. In an embodiment, the angle between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is between 15° and 60°, or between 40° and 50°. The angle α described here is the angle when the connector 10 is not compressed, for example, when the connector 10 is outside of the roller channel 21. As described in more detail below, the angle α between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be reduced when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller 20, i.e. during the connector being inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 and possibly even when in place in the roller channel 21.

[0030] The end of the third wall 3, where the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 meet, may form a point. This point may be like a sharp-angled triangle which triangle may be 'sharp'-angled enough to allow inserting the connector 10 into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. The third connection 9, which is the point where the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 meet, may thus be formed as a solid triangle . This may be considered as a sharp ridge at the end of the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4.

[0031] The acute angle at which the fourth wall 4 extends away from the third wall 3 may be determined by the fact that the total height of the connector 10 is preferably less than the depth of roller channel 21, as described further below.

[0032] As described above, the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 is connected to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 extends from the third wall 3 at the acute angle α to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 is positioned on the other side of the third wall 3 to the first wall 1. For example, as shown in the figures, the first wall 1 is above the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is below the third wall 3. The first wall 1 and the fourth wall 4 may be formed at opposite ends of the connector 10 to each other.

[0033] The second wall 2 is on one side of the third wall 3 (e.g. above the third wall 3 as shown in the figures) and the fourth wall 4 is on the other side of the third wall 3 (e.g. below the third wall 3 as shown in the figures). In other words, the fourth wall 4 is positioned on the other side of the third wall 3 to the second connection 8 between second wall 2 and third wall 3.

[0034] The third wall 3 has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the second wall 2 is connected to the first surface of the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is connected to second surface of the third wall 3. In other words, the third wall 3 comprises of a top surface which is connected to the second wall 2, and the third wall 3 comprises a bottom surface which is connected to the fourth wall 4. Thus, the second wall 2 and the fourth wall 4 are connected to opposite surfaces of the third wall 3. In the figures, the first surface of the third wall 3 may be an upper surface and the second surface of the third wall 3 may be a lower surface.

[0035] The second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is a free end. The second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is a free end with respect to the other walls of the connector 10 as herein described. Thus, the free end of the fourth wall 4 is not connected to any of the first wall 1, the second wall 2, and the third wall 3.

[0036] A first receiving section 5 is formed for receiving a first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21, the first receiving section 5 of the connector 10 can interact with a part of the roller 20, in particular, with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. Thus, the first receiving section 5 may abut the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 in some positions of the connector 10. The first receiving section 5 may otherwise be referred to as first connector channel. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may be the left side of the channel entrance 22, as shown in Figure 3. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may otherwise be referred to as a first roller channel rim.

[0037] A second receiving section 6 is formed for receiving a second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 of the connector 10 can interact with a part of the roller 20, in particular, with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. Thus, the second receiving section 6 may abut the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 in some positions of the connector 10. The first edge 24 of the entrance 22 is opposite the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. In other words, the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 may form the opening into the roller channel 21. The second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 may be the right side of the channel entrance 22, as shown in Figure 3.

[0038] It will be noted that the interaction between the connector 10 and the roller 20 will depend on the position of the connector 10 relative to the roller 20. For example, when the connector 10 is being inserted into the roller channel 21, the first receiving section 5 may be in contact with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. However, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller channel 21, i.e. the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21 for use, the first receiving section 5 may no longer interact with the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. On the other hand, when the connector 10 is being inserted into the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 may not be in contact with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. However, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller channel 21, the second receiving section 6 may interact with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22. In other words, the first receiving section 5 and the second receiving section 6 are suitable to receive the relevant parts of the roller 20, but are not necessarily in contact with parts of the roller 20 as the interaction will depend on the position of the connector 10 relative to the roller 20.

[0039] The first receiving section 5 is formed by the second portion of the first wall 1, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3. The first surface of the third wall 3 may form part of the first receiving section 5. The first receiving section 5 is formed longitudinally along the connector 10, i.e. along the length of the connector 10. The first receiving section 5 is formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the first edge 24 of the roller channel 21. The first receiving section 5 forms an open channel. The first receiving section 5 may be substantially U-shaped.

[0040] The second receiving section 6 may be formed by the first portion of the first wall 1 and the second wall 2. The second receiving section 6 may be formed longitudinally along the connector 10, i.e. along the length of the connector 10. The second receiving section 6 may be formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21. The second receiving section 6 may form an open channel. The second receiving section 6 may form an L-shape. The shape of the receiving section may be curved inwards. In particular, the second wall 2 may have a first surface 2C on the side of the second wall 2 adjacent to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 which forms part of the second receiving section 6, as shown in Figure 2. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may have a concave shape. Thus, the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be concave with respect to the first portion 1A of the first wall 1. It may be particularly beneficial that the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 is concave to align the second receiving section 6 with the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. The first surface 2C of the second portion may be concave which may be advantageous because the edge of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 will likely be formed by bending which will be curved (convex), and will thus mean that the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21 fit together better.

[0041] Although the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 having a concave shape is preferable, it is not a necessity. For example, the first surface 2C might be substantially straight. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be shaped such that, the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 reduces or restricts movement of the second wall 2. As such, the second wall 2 can act as an anchor to withstand deformation when there is high loading exerted by the fabric 30 onto the connector 10. The first surface 2C of the second wall 2 may be shaped such that, at the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21, an angle between an imaginary tangent at the first surface 2C of the second wall 2 and an imaginary tangent at the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 is less than 90 degrees. This may be particularly important when the first surface 2C is straight. If the angle is bigger than 90 degrees, it might cause the connector 10 to "climb" upwards due to the force acting on the connector 10 by the fabric 30.

[0042] It will be noted that when the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, that the connector 10 position may change depending on the forces applied to the connector 10 as described below. Therefore, the connector 10 may not be in a fixed position within the roller channel 21. This means that the interaction between the connector 10 and the first or second edge 25 will depend on the position of the connector 10. Even when not directly touching the first or second edge 25, the first receiving portion and the second receiving section 6 may be suitable for, and even configured to, receive the first edge 24 and the second edge 25 respectively.

[0043] In order to couple the connector 10 to the roller 20, the connector 10 can be inserted into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. During this process, described in further detail below, parts of the connector 10 may move relative to each other to allow the connector 10 to be inserted through the opening forming the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. When the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least part of the connector 10 may be placed within the roller channel 21 and at least part of the connector 10 may be positioned outside of the roller channel 21. The connector 10 may be compressed during coupling, and may return towards its original shape when most of the connector 10 is within the roller channel 21. When coupled to the roller 20, the connector 10 may return to its original shape inside the roller channel 21.

[0044] Generally, the roller channel 21 is wider in cross-section than the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 This means that the roller channel 21 has a smaller, i.e. narrower, opening than the space in the roller channel 21. The roller channel 21 may be any appropriate shape. The connector 10 as described herein can be used in combination with a variety of shapes and sizes of roller channel 21 and roller 20. This means that the connector 10 can be used, and will fit into the roller channel of, a wide variety of rollers 20, including many of those already on the market (and those not yet on the market).

[0045] The connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 by inserting, such as by pushing, the connector 10 into the entrance 22 of the roller channel 20. The connector 10 starts on the outside of the roller 20 as shown in Figure 3. The connector 10 can be coupled to the roller 20 as follows: Step 1: Orient the connector 10 so that first receiving portion interacts with, e.g. grips, the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 as shown in Figure 4A. In this position, the second portion of the first wall 1 is positioned on the outside of the roller channel 21 and at least part of the third wall 3 is positioned inside the roller channel 21. Step 2: Insert the connector 10 into the roller channel 21, for example, by pushing on the first wall 1 in an area similar to the first connection 7, i.e. at around the location of the second wall 2. As the connector 10 is inserted, the fourth wall 4 will move towards the third wall 3 as shown in Figure 4A, so that the connector 10 fits through the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. As the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 is moved past the second edge 25 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21, i.e. the fourth wall 4 is inserted into the roller channel 21, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B. Step 3: Release the connector 10. At least the first portion of the first wall 1 is positioned outside of the roller channel 21 and the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are positioned inside of the roller channel 21. The fourth wall 4 flexes back to its original position relative to the third wall 3, as shown in Figures 4B and 4C. Step 4: Pull on the first portion of the first wall 1 (and / or the fabric 30 if connected to the connector 10). This is shown by arrow A in Figure 4C. The first portion of the first wall 1 (and / or the fabric 30 if connected) should be pulled in a direction which pulls the connector 10 towards the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21.

[0046] During coupling the connector 10 to the roller 20, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 are moved towards one another to facilitate assembly with the roller 20. Specifically, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 being moved towards one another reduces the distance between these walls, which facilitates assembly with the roller 20. In other words, the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may move closer together when the connector 10 is being inserted, e.g. pushed, into the roller 20. The fourth wall 4 and the third wall 3 may be pinched completely together or to at least some degree. When the distance between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 is reduced, the size of the acute angle is reduced. The reduced distance between the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 (when pushed together) and the sharp point of third connection 9 allow the connector 10 to be inserted through the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21.

[0047] The fourth wall 4 extends away from the third wall 3 at the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 (i.e. at the third connection 9), and extends towards the third wall 3 at the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4. This variation in shape of the fourth wall 4 guides the connector 10 in a rotating movement when the connector 10 is being inserted into the entrance 22.

[0048] In this embodiment, the fourth wall 4 may be curved. In particular, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 may be curved towards to first wall 1. In other words, the second end 4B of fourth wall 4 may be curved towards the third wall 3. In other words, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 bends towards the third wall 3 and the first wall 1. Thus, an inner surface of the curved fourth wall 4 faces the third wall 3. Thus, the inner surface of the fourth wall 4 forms a concave surface. In other words, the fourth wall 4 is curved upwards in the drawings.

[0049] In this embodiment, the fourth wall 4 may not be curved, but may be formed of smaller portions of wall, e.g. comprising two straight portions. Such as a first straight portion extending away from the third wall 3 at the third connection 9, and a second straight portion extending towards the third wall 3 at the free end of the fourth wall 4.

[0050] Providing the fourth wall 4 as a curved wall as described is beneficial in that it allows for easier assembly of the connector 10 in the channel, because the shape of the fourth wall 4 assists in moving the fourth wall 4 towards the third wall 3 when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. This is shown in figures 4A-4C which illustrates how the curved shape of the fourth wall 4 facilitate assembly of the connector 10 in the channel. Also, when in place in the roller channel 21, the curved wall better resists the connector 10 being pulled out of the roller channel 21 through the entrance 22 due to the interaction between second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 and the inside of the roller channel 21, as described in further detail in relation to Figure 5. The curved fourth wall acts as a barb resisting to be pulled through entrance 22 of the roller channel 21.

[0051] Additionally or alternatively, the third wall 3 is curved. In particular, the first end portion of the third wall 3 may be curved towards to first wall 1. In other words, the third wall 3 is curved towards the second wall 2. In other words, the first end 3A of the third wall 3 bends towards the second wall 2 and / or the first wall 1. In other words, the third wall 3 is curved upwards in the drawings. The third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be curved in substantially the same direction.

[0052] In an embodiment, the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 projects beyond the second wall 2. Thus, the first end 4A of the fourth wall 4 is connected to one end of the third wall 3, in the second end portion 3B of the third wall 3, and the second end 4B of the fourth wall 4 extends beyond another end of the third wall 3, at the first end portion 3A of the third wall 3. This means that the fourth wall 4 extends past the second connection 8. This means that when the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, the fourth wall 4 is extends out past the second wall 2 and can prevent the connector 10 from passing through the entrance 22 in the roller channel 21. This is also the case when the fourth wall is straight instead of curved. Therefore, the dimension of the fourth wall 4 may reduce or prevent the connector 10 from being released from the roller channel 21 through entrance 22. The fourth wall 4 may be longer than the third wall 3.

[0053] In an embodiment, the fourth wall 4 has a length greater than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in that the connector 10 can be inserted into the roller channel 21 due to a combination of features such as the acute angle α and first receiving section 5, and then when the connector 10 is in place, the fourth wall 4 makes it difficult or impossible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 because these fourth wall 4 is wider than the opening.

[0054] The third wall 3 may be longer than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in that the third wall 3 can assist in making it difficult or impossible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 as described in relation to the fourth wall 4.

[0055] Since the third wall 3 and / or the fourth wall 4 are longer than the width of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 as described above, it may not be possible to remove the connector 10 from the roller channel 21 via the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. It may be possible to remove the connector 10 from the roller 20 channel by sliding the connector 10 axially out of the roller channel 21. In this manner the fabric 30 is reliably coupled to the roller 20 via the connector 10 during normal use (e.g. when the fabric 30 may be pulled around the roller 20), but still allows the connector 10 and / or fabric 30 to be replaced if preferred.

[0056] The first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be integral, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be integral, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be integral. In other words, the first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be formed of one piece of material, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be formed of one piece of material, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be formed of one piece of material. Alternatively, the first wall 1 and the second wall 2 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and / or the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and / or the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive.

[0057] The connector 10 may be formed by injection molding or 3-D printing. In this case, the connector 10 would likely be formed as a single piece (i.e. with the walls being integral to one another). The connector 10 may be formed by extrusion, e.g. by one tough polymer extruded material. The connector 10 may be formed by co-extrusion of polymers with different hardnesses. For example in this case, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 are semi-rigid or rigid material, which is beneficial due to their load bearing capacity, and the first wall 1 and the fourth wall 4 are semi-rigid or flexible material.

[0058] The thickness of the walls may vary. Alternatively, the thickness of the walls may be substantially uniform. If one of the walls is thinner than another wall, it may be more flexible, or prone to bending, for example, when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. Of course, this depends on the material used for the walls. The fourth wall 4 may be thinner than the third wall 3 to allow the fourth wall 4 to flex towards the third wall 3. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth wall 4 may be made of a more flexible material than the third wall 3 to allow the fourth wall 4 to flex towards the third wall 3. The second portion of the first wall 1, the second wall 2 and the third wall 3 (which form the first receiving section 5) may be thicker than other parts of the connector 10, such as the first portion of the first wall 1 and / or the fourth wall 4. This may allow deformation of the first receiving section 5 to be reduced or avoided.

[0059] As described, the fourth wall 4 has some degree of flexibility which allows it to move relative to the third wall 3. This is beneficial when the connector 10 is inserted into the roller channel 21. However, it is also beneficial if the connector 10 is to be removed (purposefully) from the roller channel 21. Specifically, as described, the shape of the connector 10 prevents or restricts unwanted removal of the connector, i.e. due to forces applied during normal and abnormal use as described. However, the connector 10 can be removed by a user by moving the connector such that the first receiving section 5 moves towards the first edge 24 of the entrance 22, then pulling the connector to pull the second wall 2 through the opening 22, pulling the third connection 9 through the opening 22 and finally removing the fourth wall 4 from the roller channel 21. Thus, as mentioned above, fabric 30 can be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric 30 or the connector 10, which allows replacement of the fabric on an installed roller 20 without needing to unmount the roller 20.

[0060] Any appropriate material may be used for the connector 10. The connector 10 may be formed of an elastomer material. Any or all of the first wall 1, second wall 2, third wall 3 and / or fourth wall 4 may be formed of the same material. At least the first portion of the first wall 1 may be relatively soft, e.g. formed of a soft elastomer, so that it reduces or prevents marks on the fabric 30 when the connector 10 is in place. The same may apply to the second portion of the first wall 1. The second portion of the first wall 1 may be tough, rigid or flexible The second wall 2 and / or the third wall 3 may be rigid plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic polymer, or a tough elastomer in order to maintain the second connection 8 between these two walls, and thus maintain the form of the first receiving section 5. The fourth wall 4 may be formed of a different material to the other walls, and particularly the second wall 2 and the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may be a flexible elastomer which may be beneficial in allowing flexing of the fourth wall 4 relative to the third wall 3. The fourth wall 4 may be formed of a material with a greater resistance to indentation (i.e. with a higher shore durometer value) than the material used for the other walls.

[0061] The shape of the connector 10 in cross-section may be substantially uniform along the length of the connector 10. In other words, the profile of the connector 10 may be uniform along the length of the connector 10. This means that the cross-section may be the same along the whole connector 10. The connector 10 may be formed by any appropriate method, including those described above, e.g. 3-D printing, injection molding, extrusion, or co-extrusion (which means that the walls may be formed of different materials).

[0062] The connector 10 may comprise fabric 30. Thus, the fabric 30 may be attached to the connector, for example as shown in Figure 3. Any appropriate fabric 30 may be used. The fabric 30 may be used to form a blind of a blind roller 20. The fabric 30 may be attached to the first portion of the first wall 1. The fabric 30 may be attached to the connector 10 by any appropriate means, for example, by adhesive, sewing, melting, tacking, welding, etc.. In an embodiment, welding, particularly high frequency or thermal welding may be used, or sewing for non-weldable fabrics. In an embodiment, the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 may be coated with a weldable adhesive layer to allow non-weldable fabrics to be attached to the adhesive layer. Fabric 30 maybe any type of fabric which may be woven, non-woven, knitted and natural or synthetic material. As stated above the fabric 30 may be attached prior to, or after, the assembly of the connector 10 to a roller 20.

[0063] In the present invention, a roller blind may be provided. The roller blind may comprise the roller 20 as described above, i.e. the roller 20 having a roller channel 21 extending axially along the roller 20, the roller channel 21 having an entrance 22 in a longitudinal direction of the roller 20. The roller 20 may include any of the variations discussed above. The roller blind may include the connector 10 as described in any of the above variations.

[0064] After the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, any force applied to wind the fabric 30 in the expected direction about the roller during normal use would result in a force being applied on the connector by the fabric, i.e. in the direction of arrow A. This pulls the connector 10 towards the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. towards the right in Figure 4C), and results in the second receiving portion 6 abutting the second edge 25 of the entrance of the roller 21. Also, the first end portion 3A and the second end portion 3B of the third wall 3 will then interact with the inside of the roller channel 21. The third wall 3 may effectively close the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 in that the first end of the third wall 3 abuts the second edge 25 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the right hand side in Figure 4C) and in that the second end of the third wall 3 is in contact with the inside of the roller channel 21 on an opposite side of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the left hand side in Figure 4C).

[0065] After the connector 10 is positioned within the roller channel 21, the fabric may be pulled in a direction opposite to the expected direction during normal use, i.e. in the direction of arrow B in Figure 5. This may happen by accident, for example, during installation of the roller (for instance while the end position of motor is being set), i.e. Figure 5 shows abnormal use. When the connector 10 is pulled towards the first edge 24 of the roller channel 21 in this way (i.e. towards the left as in Figure 5), this results in the first receiving section 5 abutting the first edge 24 of the entrance 22. This also results in the first end and the second end of the fourth wall 4 interacting with the inside of the roller channel 21 as shown in Figure 5. The fourth wall 4 may effectively close the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 in that the first end of the fourth wall 4 is in contact with an inside of the roller channel 21 on the same side as the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the left hand side in the figures) and in that the second end of the fourth wall 4 is in contact with the inside of the roller channel 21 on an opposite side of the roller channel 21 (i.e. on the right hand side in the figures). Thus, Figure 5 displays the locking capacity of the connector 10 under reverse winding.

[0066] Thus, no matter which direction the fabric 30 and / or connector 10 is pulled in after being coupled to the roller, the third wall 3 and / or the fourth wall 4 may effectively prevent the connector 10 from being removed from the roller 20 via entrance 22.

[0067] In an embodiment, the roller channel 21 is wider in cross-section than the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. As described above, this provides space for the connector 10 when coupled to the roller 20 so that the roller 20 can keep the connector 10 in place in the roller channel 21.

[0068] In an embodiment, a height of the connector 10 is less than a total height of the roller channel 21.

[0069] In an embodiment, second portion 1B of first wall 1 may extend across the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20. This means that the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may go from one side of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 to substantially the other side of the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may bridge the opening of the roller channel 21. Thus, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may cover the entrance 22 of the roller channel 21 when the connector 10 is positioned in the roller channel 21. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may substantially close off the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21. This is beneficial in providing a more uniform surface of the combined connector 10 and roller 20 because the gap at the entrance 22 is reduced in size, or closed. This is beneficial in that the fabric 30 when in position is less likely to enter into the roller channel 21, which may cause a mark on the surface of the fabric 30 when rolled over the roller 20. The second portion 1B of the first wall 1 may provide resistance to the fabric 30 over the roller 20 so that marks in the fabric 30 are reduced or avoided.

[0070] The second portion 1B of first wall 1 may bend a bit, for example during installation, as shown in Figure 4A, or during abnormal use, as shown in Figure 5. As described above, any appropriate material may be selected for the connector 10, and in particular, for the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 to allow this bending.

[0071] In an embodiment, the second portion 1B of the first wall 1 reaches the opposite side of the entrance 22 to the roller channel 21, and preferably overlaps onto the first edge 24 of the entrance 22 of the roller 20. This may be beneficial in ensuring a reliable connection. This is also beneficial in that it prevents fabric 30 from entering into the roller channel 21 which would otherwise result in a larger mark on the fabric 30 than is caused by any overlap. Preferably, the thickness of the second portion 1B of wall 1 is tapered towards the end (i.e. thinner at the end), to reduce any mark in the fabric 30 caused by the overlap.

[0072] When the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least a part of the connector 10 is within the roller channel 21, which is beneficial in that when a force is applied which might remove the connector 10 (for example, if a force is applied to pull on the fabric 30), the parts of the connector 10 can interact with an inside of the roller channel 21 to prevent the connector 10 from being pulled out of the roller channel 21. In an embodiment, at least the third wall 3 and the fourth wall 4 of the connector 10 are positioned within the roller channel 21 as these walls may be particularly beneficial in resisting removal of the connector 10 from the roller channel 21. In an embodiment, when the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20, at least a part of the connector 10 is outside of the roller channel 21. This means that fabric 30 could be provided to the connector 10 after the connector 10 is coupled to the roller 20 if desired, for example, if a fabric 30 is to be replaced. In an embodiment least the first portion 1A of the first wall 1 is outside of the roller channel 21, which can thus be connected to fabric 30. The first wall 1, and particularly, at least the first portion 1A of the first wall 1, may follow the outer contour of the roller 20 as shown in Figure 1.

[0073] Some features of the connector 10 are described in relation to, or combination with the roller 20. It will be understood that although the connector 10 may be coupled to the roller 20 as described, the connector 10 may be provided separately and thus, may not be provided with the roller 20.

[0074] It will be described that the connector 10 and / or roller 20 are described in some orientations in relation to the drawings provided. Of course, the connector 10 and / or roller 20 could be provided in any appropriate orientation. The description relating to the orientation shown in the drawings is for clearly describing the features of the invention, but are not limiting on the invention. Thus, any reference to above and below, etc. are understood to mean in the context of the drawings provided.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the connector and / or roller blind may have many applications, may be implemented in various manners and, as such is not to be limited by the foregoing embodiments and examples. Any number of the features of the different embodiments described herein may be combined into a single embodiment. Alternate embodiments are possible that have features in addition to those described herein or may have less than all the features described. Functionality may also be, in whole or in part, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or to become known.

[0076] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. While fundamental features of the invention have been shown and described in exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the disclosed embodiments of the connector and / or roller blind may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the invention covers conventionally known, and future-developed variations and modifications to the components described herein as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0077] In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements, features, or steps. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements, or method steps may be implemented by, e.g., a single unit, element, or piece. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may advantageously be combined, and their inclusion individually in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc., do not preclude a plurality. Reference signs or characters in the disclosure and / or claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

[0078] The foregoing description has broad application. It should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may apply to many types of connector and / or roller blind, in addition to those described and depicted herein. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0014]There are various ways in which fabric may be connected to a roller of a roller blind. A roller blind often comprises a roller, and some form of mechanism for attaching fabric to the roller. There are various advantages of being able to add the fabric to the roller blind without having to insert fabric or a connecting mechanism axially into the roller blind. The present invention provides a mechanism which allows a connector to be attached to a roller without having to insert the mechanism axially along the roller. This means that the fabric could be added to the roller blind after the roller has been fitted in place, for example.

[0015]Some mechanisms of connecting fabric to a roller are already known. It is desirable to provide an alternative to such known mechanisms. The present invention provides such an alternative connector which is suitable for coupling fabric to a roller.

[0016]The connector, which can otherwise be referred to as a fabric connector, and roller blind of t...

Claims

1. A connector (10) for coupling fabric to a roller (20) with a roller channel (21) with an entrance (22) extending axially along the roller, the connector (10) having a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall (1), a second wall (2), a third wall (3), and a fourth wall (4), wherein the first wall (1) and the second wall (2) are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection (7) at which a first end (2A) of the second wall is connected to the first wall (1) between a first portion (1A) of the first wall for attaching to fabric (30) and a second portion (1B) of the first wall, wherein the second wall (2) and the third wall (3) are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection (8) at which a second end (2B) of the second wall is connected to a first end portion (3A) of the third wall, wherein the third wall (3) and the fourth wall (4) are at an acute angle to each other at a third connection (9) at which a second end portion (3B) of the third wall is connected to a first end of the fourth wall (4A), and the fourth wall (4) is on one side of the third wall (3) and the second wall (2) is on the other side of the third wall (3), and wherein the second portion (1B) of the first wall, the second wall (2) and the third wall (3) form a first receiving section (5) for receiving a first edge of the entrance of the roller channel, and the first portion (1A) of the first wall and the second wall (2) form a second receiving section (6) for receiving a second edge of the entrance of the roller channel.

2. The connector (10) of claim 1, during coupling the connector (10) to the roller (20), the third wall (3) and the fourth wall (4) are moved toward one another to facilitate assembly with the roller (20).

3. The connector (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first receiving section (5) is substantially u-shaped.

4. The connector (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the second wall (2) has a first surface (2C) on the side of the second wall adjacent to the first portion (1A) of the first wall, the first surface having a concave shape.

5. The connector (10) of any preceding claim, the fourth wall (4) is curved.

6. The connector (10) of claim 5, wherein the second end (4B) of the fourth wall is curved towards to first wall (1).

7. The connector (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the second end (4B) of the fourth wall projects beyond the second wall (2).

8. The connector (10) of any preceding claim, further comprising fabric (30) attached to the first portion (1A) of the first wall.

9. A roller blind comprising: a roller (20) with a roller channel (21) extending axially along the roller (20), the roller channel (21) having an entrance (22) in a longitudinal direction of the roller; and a connector (10) as in any one of the preceding claims.

10. The roller blind of claim 9, wherein the roller channel (21) is wider in cross-section than the entrance (22) of the roller channel (21).

11. The roller blind of claim 9 or 10, wherein a total height of the connector (10) is less than a total height of the roller channel (21).

12. The roller blind of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the second portion (1B) of first wall extends across the entrance (22) of the roller channel (21) when the connector (10) is coupled to the roller (20).

13. The roller blind of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the third wall (3) and the fourth wall (4) have a length greater than the width of the entrance (22) of the roller channel (21).

14. The roller blind of any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein when the connector (10) is coupled to the roller (20), at least the third wall (3) and the fourth wall (4) of the connector (10) are positioned within the roller channel (21) and at least the first portion (1A) of the first wall is outside of the roller channel (21).

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