Window blind systems and manufacturing methods therefor

Abstract

A window blind system including a first blind structure including a first strip and a first set of slats extending from the first strip, the first strip and the first set of slats being integrally formed; at least one electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one slat from the first set; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in the first strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the at least one electrical device, wherein the first set of slats is capable of at least one of retraction and rotation.

Description

WINDOW BLIND SYSTEMS ANDMANUFACTURING METHODS THEREFORCROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 590,818, entitled “MONO-LAMINATE INTERCONNECTED SLATS”, filed October 17, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present technology relates generally to window blind systems, particularly to solar window blind systems with integrally connected slats.BACKGROUND

[0003] Window blind systems are commonly installed to manage sunlight entering a home or business through windows, as well as to limit the ability to see inside the home or business from an exterior thereof.

[0004] By blocking sunlight from entering a home or business using a window blind, solar heating of the building can be reduced thereby reducing cooling costs and energy use. The solar energy reflected away by the window blinds is lost, however, even though there may be a desire to illuminate the building at another moment.

[0005] Window blind systems with electrical components disposed on individual slats thereof further have the difficulty of connecting wiring the different components on separate slats. Individually wiring separate components is costly and time consuming in fabrication, while it is still desirable to be able to allow natural light in through such a window blind system.

[0006] There remains a desire to develop window blind systems for managing light transmitted through a window.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a window blind system including a first blind structure including a first strip and a first set of slats extending from the first strip, the first strip and the first set of slats being integrally formed; at least one electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one slat from the first set; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in the first strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the at least one electrical device, wherein the first set of slats is capable of at least one of retraction and rotation. As used herein, the phrase “integrally formed” indicates that parts of the first strip remain connected to parts of the first set of slats during the manufacturing process.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first strip and the first set of slats are created from a base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the first set of slats from being completely severed from the first strip.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base sheet is a laminate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device includes at least one photovoltaic cell.

[0012] In some embodiments, each slat of the first set includes photovoltaic cells; and the conducting wire electrically couples the photovoltaic cells in different slats of the first set.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device is at least one of a motion sensor and a light sensor.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device is a light source.

[0015] In some embodiments, the light source is a light emitting diode (LED) strip.

[0016] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a battery; and a light source powered by the battery; and wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells for charging the battery.

[0017] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells for charging the battery, and the set of slats is retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

[0018] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a second blind structure including a second strip and a second set of slats extending from the second strip, the second strip and the second set of slats being integrally formed, the second set of slats is capable of at least one of retraction and rotation, and the first set of slats and the second set of slats are arranged to complement each other to variably block light.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first strip and the first set of slats are created from a base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the first set of slats from being completely severed from the first strip; and the second strip and the second set of slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein.

[0020] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes at least one additional electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one slat of the second set; and additional conducting wire lying on or embedded in the second strip, said additional conducting wire electrically coupled to the at least one additional electrical device.

[0021] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a ladder for retracting at least one of the first set and the second set.

[0022] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, and the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells that charge the battery, and the first set and the second set of slats are retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes at least one of a sensor powered by the battery; and a light source powered by the battery.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a window blind system including a base sheet that includes a first vertical strip in a left border region, a second vertical strip in a right border region opposite the left border region, and horizontal slats running between the first and second vertical strips, the first vertical strip, the second vertical strip and the slats being integrally formed; at least one electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one of the slats; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in at least one of the first vertical strip and the second vertical strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the electrical device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first vertical strip, the second vertical strip and the slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the first vertical strip and to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the second vertical strip.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first strip is a first double ribbon; and the second strip is a second double ribbon.

[0027] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the horizontal slats includes photovoltaic cells; and the conducting wire electrically couples the photovoltaic cells in neighboring slats.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device is at least one of a motion sensor and a light sensor.

[0030] In some embodiments, the at least one electrical device is a light source.

[0031] In some embodiments, the light source is a light emitting diode (LED) strip.

[0032] In some embodiments, the slats are selectively rotatable to variably block light.

[0033] In some embodiments, the window blind system further includes a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, wherein the at least one electrical device includesphotovoltaic cells for charging the battery, and the slats are retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

[0034] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a method for manufacturing a blind system. The method includes cutting a base sheet to form a first base sheet and a complimentary second base sheet, a first strip near a first border region of the first base sheet, and a second strip near a second border region of the second base sheet, and first slats extending from the first strip, and second slats extending from the second strip, the first slats and the second slats complementing each other to variably block light, the cutting being limited to prevent the first slats from being completely severed from the first strip; connecting at least one of the first slats and the second slats to at least one ladder for retracting the at least one of the first slats and the second slats; attaching at least one electrical device to the first slats; and electrically connecting the at least one electrical device to a conducting wire that lies on or is embedded in the first strip.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a method for manufacturing a blind system. The method includes making cuts in a base sheet to form: a first strip near a border region of the sheet, a second strip near an opposite border region of the sheet, and slats disposed therebetween, the cuts being limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the first strip; attaching at least one electrical device to the slats; and electrically connecting the at least one electrical device to a conducting wire that lies on or is embedded in at least one of the first strip and the second strip.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a portable charging station including a base sheet that includes: a strip in a border region, and slats extending from the strip, wherein the strip and the slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein, wherein the cuts are limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the strip; photovoltaic cells lying on or embedded in at least one of the slats; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in the strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cells, wherein said slats are capable of assuming: a retracted configuration suitable for transport, and an extended configuration suitable for harvesting light to create electricity with the aid of the photovoltaic cells.

[0037] In the present disclosure, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality of means two or more. The term "and / or" describes an association relationship of associated objects and indicates that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B may indicate the following three cases: Only A exists, both A and B exist, and only B exists, where A and B may be singular or plural. The character " / " indicates an "or" relationship between associated objects. "At least one of the following items (pieces)" or a similar expression thereof indicates any combination of these items, including a single item (piece) or any combination of a plurality of items (pieces). For example, "at least one of A, B, or C" includes: only A; only B; only C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C, and "at least one of A, B, and C" may also be understood as including: only A; only B; only C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B, and C. In addition, unless otherwise specified, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" in embodiments of this application are used to distinguish between a plurality of objects, and are not used to limit a sequence, a time sequence, priorities, or importance of the plurality of objects.

[0038] Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above- mentioned objects and / or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that may have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

[0039] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustration of a window blind system according to an embodiment of the present technology as located in a window, of a building with the system being in a deployed configuration;

[0042] Figure 2 is a perspective, partial view of a blind structure of the window blind system of Figure 1;

[0043] Figure 3 is a left side perspective view of a blind structure of another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind according to the present technology;

[0044] Figure 4 is a right side perspective view of the blind structure of Figure 3;

[0045] Figure 5 is a left side elevation view of the blind structure of Figure 3;

[0046] Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of the blind structure of Figure 3;

[0047] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the blind structure of Figure 3;

[0048] Figure 8 is a perspective, partial view of a blind structure of another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind according to the present technology;

[0049] Figure 9 is a partial view of a blind structure of another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind according to the present technology;

[0050] Figure 10 is a schematic, cross-sectional view illustration of a solar window blind system according to an embodiment of the present technology as located in a window, with the system being in a deployed configuration;

[0051] Figure 11 is a perspective view illustration of the solar window blind system and window of Figure 10, as located in a room of a building;

[0052] Figure 12 is a schematic, cross-sectional view illustration of the solar window blind system of Figure 10, with the system being in a retracted configuration;

[0053] Figure 13 is a schematic, cross-sectional view illustration of a solar window blind system according to another embodiment of the present technology, with the system being in a deployed configuration;

[0054] Figure 14 is a schematic, cross-sectional view illustration of a solar window blind system according to yet another embodiment of the present technology, with the system being in a deployed configuration;

[0055] Figure 15 is a schematic, side view illustration of a solar window blind system as located in a window according to yet another embodiment of the present technology, with the system being in a deployed configuration;

[0056] Figure 16 is a perspective view illustration of the solar window blind system and window of Figure 15, as located in a room of a building;

[0057] Figure 17 is a is a perspective view illustration of a solar window blind system and a plurality of windows, illustrated in a room of a building;

[0058] Figure 18 is a schematic, side view illustration of a solar window blind system as located in a window according to yet another embodiment of the present technology, with the system being in a deployed configuration; and

[0059] Figure 19 is a schematic, perspective view of a portable charging station according to another non-limiting implementation of the present technology.

[0060] Unless otherwise indicated, it should be noted that the Figures may not be drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] For a better understanding of various features of the present technology, reference is made to the following description and the accompanying Figures. A person skilled in the art would understand that modifications to the embodiments described below are possible and may be necessary for specific applications.

[0062] As used herein, a window blind can include shutters and shades. Several window blinds are known in the art such as a rollable shade, which can be rolled down to block external light entering a window and rolled back up to allow the light to enter. Another type of window blind is a Venetian blind (including mini and micro blinds) having horizontal slats. The slatstypically sit on a ladder cord and can be rotated in unison to vary the amount of external light that enters the room. The slats can also be raised and stacked close together near the top of the window blind. Other types of blinds include vertical blinds, panel blinds, pleated shades, honeycomb shades, Roman shades and curtain blinds.

[0063] Characteristic of a blind is that it includes a light blocking assembly capable of assuming a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration, further discussed below. The light blocking assembly blocks external light from entering the room when in the deployed configuration and allows external light to enter the room when in the retracted configuration. For example, in a Venetian blind, in the deployed configuration, the slats of a Venetian blind can be rotated in unison to vary the amount of external light that is blocked. The slats can also be raised into a retracted configuration to allow light to enter. Typically, in a retracted configuration, the slats of a Venetian blind are all stacked close together near the top of the window blind.

[0064] Referring to Figure 1, a window blind system 10 is shown at a window of a room. The window blind system 10 includes a blind structure 12 having a strip 14 and a set of slats 16 extending from the strip 14. In a typical, installed configuration, the strip 14 is vertical and the slats 16 extend horizontally from the strip 14 on one side thereof. A portion of the blind structure 12 is illustrated in more detail in Figure 2. As will be further described below, the system 10 includes one or more electrical device 20 disposed on or embedded in one or more slats 16.

[0065] The blind structure 12 is formed monolithically from a base sheet 18. The generally vertically extending strip 14 and the set of slats 16 are integrally formed and created from this base sheet 18 by making cuts therein, as will further be explained below. Care is taken while performing these cuts to not completely sever the strip 14 from the set of slatsl6, which is to say that the strip 14 and the set of slats 16 remain interconnected. This contrasts with a non-monolithic manufacturing process in which the slats and the strip are formed separately, only to be attached in later steps. In this non-monolithic process, an electrical connection may then be made by attaching one end of an electrical wire to the strip and another end to a slat to electrically couple the strip with the slat. By instead forming the slats 16 and strip 14 monolithically in the illustrated embodiment, these steps of attaching are largely eliminated. Additionally, the slats 16 of windowblind system 10 are designed to be capable of retracting (typically, by raising and stacking the slats together) and rotating.

[0066] The window blind system 10 further includes three ladders 20 (two being shown), made of string and run through holes in the slats. Different materials and connection arrangements are contemplated. The ladders 20 are coupled to the slats 16 and to a pull-string (not shown). By manually pulling on the pull-string, rungs the ladders 20 lift the slats 16 causing them to retract. The ladders 20 may be coupled to a rod in some embodiments. In such an embodiment, the slats 16 could be made to rotate manually rotating the rod. Alternatively or in addition, the functions of raising and rotating can be achieved with the assistance of an electric motor. It will be appreciated that by retracting and rotating the slats 16, the amount of light entering the room can be variably controlled.

[0067] Advantageously, the window blind system 10 is manufactured monolithically from the base sheet 18, which can be a laminate. The laminate can include photovoltaic cells and the wiring therefor. The laminate can be cut to produce the desired strip 14 and slats 16. This obviates the need to make physical and electrical connections between the strip and the slats ex post facto, which would be required if the strip 14 and slats 16 were manufactured separately. Instead, the strip 14 and the set of slats 16 connected thereto are thus formed as an integral structure after making appropriate cuts in the base sheet 18. At least part of the wiring can be integrated into the base sheet 18 before the cutting of the base sheet that forms the strip 14 and slats 16.

[0068] In a similar manner to how the first blind structure 12 having the strip 14 and the set of slats 16 is manufactured, a second blind structure having a second strip and second set of slats could be manufactured. Two variations are possible. In the first variation, the first and second blind structures are created from the same base sheet, which results in less waste since the first set of slats and the second set of slats are complimentary. The first blind structure may be completely separated from the second blind structure and later assembled together. In a second variation, the first blind structure and the second blind structure may be created from separate base sheets and then later assembled together.

[0069] The window blind system 10 further includes one or more electrical devices, such as photovoltaic cells 21 in the illustrated embodiment. Only two photovoltaic cells 21 have beenillustrated for simplicity, but any number of cells 21 are contemplated. The electrical devices could additionally or alternatively include lights, sensors (such as a light or motion sensor), etc. to be disposed on the slats 16 or elsewhere on the window blind system 10. When photovoltaic cells 21 are included, a battery 22 (shown schematically) is provided that is charged by the photovoltaic cells 21 when receiving light. The battery 22 may then be used to power the other electrical devices. The inclusion of photovoltaic cells 21 on the window blind system 10 is advantageous because of the possibility of sunlight exposure if the blind is located at a window. Sunlight absorbed by the photovoltaic cells 21 can be converted to electricity to charge the battery 22. In such manner, energy can be stored for use to power other electrical devices, such as lights that may be disposed on the window blind system 10. In some embodiments, the lights could be beneficially disposed on the slats 16, which allows the lights to be rotated and aimed at various angles inside the room. Alternatively, or in addition, the lights can be aimed at various angles in the opposite direction for exterior outdoor lighting.

[0070] With reference to Figures 3 to 7, another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind system 20, in which two blind assemblies are interwoven. One blind assembly 22 includes a plurality of slats 24 which are integrally formed with a right side vertical strip 26 (see Figs. 4, 6, 7). A second blind assembly 32 includes a plurality of slats 34 which are integrally formed with a left side vertical strip 36 (see Fig. 3, 5, 7). The slats 24, 34 are interwoven to provide a more stable construction, where each slat 24 is disposed between two corresponding slats 34 and vice versa (see Fig. 7). End caps can be added to the slats 24, 34 in maintain alignment of the slats 24, 34, specifically such that the strip 26 can support or align the slats 34 and the strip 36 can support or align the slats 24. It will be noted in these figures that the right side vertical strip 26 is connected to every other slat (right slat subset), with the other slats therebetween (left slat subset) having apertures through which the right vertical strip passes. Likewise, it will be appreciated that the left slat subset is connected to the left side vertical strip, and the members of the right slat subset have apertures through which the left side vertical strip passes.

[0071] Figure 8 illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind system 40 (only a portion being illustrated for simplicity) consistent with the principles of the present technology in which two opposite strips connected by slats are formed monolithically. The window blind system 40 is formed from a base sheet into a first vertical strip 42 in a left border region, asecond vertical strip 44 in a right border region opposite the left border region, and horizontal slats 46 running between the first and second vertical strips 42, 44. The first vertical strip 42, the second vertical strip 44, and the slats 46 are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein. Said cuts are limited to prevent the slats 46 from being completely severed from the first vertical strip 42 and to prevent the slats 46 from being completely severed from the second vertical strip 44. At least one electrical device lies on or is embedded in at least one of the slats. Conducting wire lies on or is embedded in at least one of the first vertical strip and the second vertical strip, the conducting wire electrically coupled to the electrical device.

[0072] Figure 9 illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a window blind system 50 (only a portion being illustrated for simplicity) consistent with the principles of the present technology. In the embodiment of Figure 4, a window blind 52 is formed with a plurality of slats 54. The slates 54 are integrally connected to two generally vertically extending strips 56, which is referred to as a double ribbon. As with the system 10, the slats 54 and the strips 56 are monolithically formed. The right (interior) vertical strip 56 in the Figure 9 is a collector strip that connects and carries current from slat to slat. The left (exterior) vertical strip is a home run strip that returns current from the bottom of the blind to the top. The right and left vertical strips are folded onto each other to take up less space at the price of making the resultant strip thicker. In another different embodiment, the home run strip can be separated from the collector strip and placed on the opposite end (right side) of slats. Although in this last embodiment there are two separate strips on either side of the slats, each strip is less thick.

[0073] With reference to Figures 10 to 12, one non-limiting embodiment of a solar window blind system 100, also referred to herein as the system 100, is described. The system 100 is configured to be located at a window 50 of a room. The blind system 200 can be located on either side of the window 50, but preferably located on the room-side of the window 50.

[0074] The system 100 includes a window blind 110. When in use, the window blind 110 is arranged and configured to selectively block at least some light transmission from outside of the window 50 to an interior side of a structure in which the window 50 is installed.

[0075] The window blind 110 includes a light blocking assembly 112 capable of assuming a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration, along with components (not separatelyidentified) for managing moving between these configurations. When in the deployed configuration (Figure 10), the light blocking assembly 112 is generally arranged to block external light from entering the room via the window 50. When in the retracted configuration (Figure 12), the light blocking assembly 112 is arranged to allow external light to enter the room via the window 50.

[0076] In the present embodiment, the light blocking assembly 112 includes a plurality of rotatable slats 120 integrally formed with a side strip 121. The slats 120 and the strip 121 are formed from one base sheet, as described above for the blind structure 12. In this embodiment, the slats 120 are generally planar, flat slats, although different forms are contemplated. As can be seen in Figure 10, in the deployed position, the slats 120 are rotatable between a position that allows some external light to transmit between the slats 120 and a position where the slats 120 are generally vertically arranged and overlapping, in order to block external light from entering the room. In some other embodiments of a light blocking assembly, it is contemplated that the assembly could block all light when in the deployed configuration.

[0077] In the present embodiment, a ladder cord 165 is used to control positioning of the slats 120, specifically a right side ladder cord 165 and a left side ladder cord (not shown). Each slat 120 has defined therein at least one hole near one end of the slat 120 and at least one hole near an opposite end of the slat 120. Specifically, each slat 120 has three holes 162 defined therein in each end (one set of holes 162 being illustrated schematically in Figure 10). The ladder cords 165 are threaded through the holes 162. The slats 120 are thus rotatable via the ladder cords 165.

[0078] In order to move the window blind 110, and the light blocking assembly 112 thereof, the system 100 also includes a motor 118 operatively connected to the window blind 110. The motor 118 is configured to selectively move the window blind 110 between at least the retracted position and the deployed position. In at least some embodiments, the motor 118 could be further configured to move the window blind 110 to one or more positions intermediate the retracted position and the deployed position. In at least some embodiments, the retracted position may not fully expose the window 50, with some portions of the window blind 110 still obscuring a portion of the window 50.

[0079] The system 100 further includes a microcontroller 114 operatively connected to the motor 118 for controlling the motor 118 and for selectively causing the motor 118 to move the window blind 110. The microcontroller 114 includes a compact integrated circuit (not shown) designed to govern certain movements of the window blind 110. Components of a microcontroller 114 typically include a processor, memory and input / output (I / O) peripherals on a single chip, or less often several chips. The microcontroller 114 could be controlled with, for example, voice commands, smart phones or buttons.

[0080] According to the present technology, the system 100 further includes one or more photovoltaic components 130 disposed on the window blind 110. The photovoltaic components 130 are arranged and configured to receive solar light via the window 50, producing electrical energy therefrom. In the present embodiment, there is one photovoltaic component 130 disposed on each of the rotatable slats 120. Specifically, each slat 120 has one laterally extending photovoltaic cell 130 along one side of the slat 120. In the illustrated embodiment, each photovoltaic cell 130 is encapsulated in the base sheet prior to formation of the slats 120 and the strip 121. In different embodiments, the number and arrangement of the photovoltaic components 130 could vary. For instance, some of the slats 120 could be provided without the photovoltaic components 130. Examples of photovoltaic materials that could be used include silicon-based materials, such as mono-crystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon and thin film silicon photovoltaics, and gallium-based ones. Other possible examples include newer materials such as 4GEN, also known as “inorganics-in-organics,” combining polymer thin films with inorganic nanostructures (i.e., metal nanoparticles and metal oxides) with organic-based nanomaterials (i.e., carbon nanotubes, graphene and its derivatives). In some embodiments, instead of attaching photovoltaic components 130 to the slats 120, the slats 120 themselves can be composed of photovoltaic material.

[0081] Electrochromic (i.e., tintable) and transparent photovoltaic material can also be used. If the slats 120 themselves are composed of such material, this affords the possibility of using the blind system 100 in the deployed configuration to at the same time allow the external scenery to be visible from indoors and light to be shone into the room from light source (described below) on the slats 120. As used herein, the word transparent in the phrase “transparent photovoltaic material” is understood to mean substantially transparent, not completely transparent. It is notedthat a completely transparent photovoltaic material is a misnomer since such material would not absorb any photons and therefore could not be photovoltaic. For example, some commercially available photovoltaic “glass” can allow less than 70% of incoming light to pass through.

[0082] The system 100 further includes a rechargeable battery 150 electrically connected to the photovoltaic components 130. The battery 150 receives electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic components 130 and charged thereby. In addition to the functions described below, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the battery 150 could be operatively connected to the motor 118 in order to supply power thereto. The motor 118 could be alternatively or additionally connected to an external electrical source (e.g. plugged into an outlet of the room).

[0083] The system 100 further includes one or more light sources 160 electrically connected to the rechargeable battery 150. The light sources 160 are powered by the rechargeable battery when in use. In some embodiments, an additional electrical power source could be used, for example when the battery 150 charge has been depleted.

[0084] In the present embodiment, the light sources 160 are connected to the slats 120, with specifically one light source 160 being connected to a corresponding slat 120. The light sources 160 are LED strips 160 in the present case. LED strip color options include pink, UV (blacklight), blue, green, yellow, amber, red, and orange. Single-color LED strip lights may also be used in cool, natural, and warm white. These strips are capable of different color modes and intensities. It is also contemplated that LIFX tiles or beams may be used. Other appropriate light producing components besides LED strips may be used. The light sources 160 are arranged to shine light either into the room or outward to an exterior of the building via the window 50, or selectively both. By rotating of the slats 120, by the motor 118, such that the light sources 160 are oriented toward the window 50 (clockwise rotation as illustrated in Figure 1), the light sources 160 can shine light out through the window 50. By rotating of the slats 120 such that the light sources 160 are oriented away from the window 50 (counterclockwise rotation as illustrated in Figure 1), the light sources 160 can illuminate the room. It is contemplated that some embodiments may not permit a change of configuration providing illumination outward through the window 50, described further below.

[0085] While the light sources 160 and the photovoltaic components 130 are disposed on a same side of the slats 120, it is also contemplated that these components could be disposed on opposite sides of the slats. As is illustrated in Figure 13, another embodiment of the system 100’ has a photovoltaic component 130’ disposed on one side of the slat 120’ and a light source 160’ disposed on the opposite side of the slat 120’. In at least some other embodiments, LED strips could be applied to every other slat, either with or without photovoltaic components. Yet other arrangements of light sources and photovoltaic components are contemplated, such as a top portion of the slats of a given blind having LED strips while a bottom portion of the slats have photovoltaic components, or vice versa.

[0086] Another embodiment of a solar window blind system 200 according to the present technology is illustrated in Figure 14. Elements of the system 200 that are similar to those of the system 100 retain the same reference numeral and will generally not be described again.

[0087] The system 200 includes a window blind 210, arranged and configured to selectively block at least some light transmission from outside of the window 50 to an interior side of a structure in which the window 50 is installed.

[0088] The window blind 210 includes a light blocking assembly 212 capable of assuming a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration, along with components (not separately identified) for managing moving between these configurations. The window blind 210 is operatively connected to the motor 118 for moving between the deployed and retracted configuration, as well as intermediate configurations.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the light blocking assembly 112 includes a plurality of rotatable slats 220 integrally formed with a side strip 221. The slats 220 and the strip 221 are formed from one base sheet, as described above for the blind structure 12. Specifically, the slats 220 are Venetian blind slats 220, which are curved. In the illustrated embodiment, the slats 220 are curved according to a circular section form, but different curves are contemplated.

[0090] The system 200 includes a plurality of photovoltaic components 230 disposed on the window blind 210. The photovoltaic components 230 are arranged and configured to receive solar light via the window 50, producing electrical energy therefrom. In the present embodiment,there is one photovoltaic component 230 disposed on each of the rotatable slats 220. Specifically, each slat 220 has one laterally extending photovoltaic cell 230 along one side of the slat 120. In different embodiments, the number and arrangement of the photovoltaic components 230 could vary. For instance, some of the slats 220 could be provided without the photovoltaic components 230.

[0091] The system 200 further includes light sources 260 electrically connected to the rechargeable battery 150. The light sources 260 are LED strips 260, powered by the rechargeable battery when in use. In some embodiments, an additional electrical power source could be used, for example when the battery 150 charge has been depleted. Other appropriate light sources besides LED lights may also be used.

[0092] As is noted above, photovoltaic material and / or photovoltaic components could be disposed on various parts of the window blind system, depending on the particular embodiment. As is illustrated in the embodiment of Figure 14, photovoltaic material is disposed on a convex surface of the slats 220, also referred to as a “back” side of the slats 220, according to a common arrangement of the slats 220 relative to the window 50. The back of the curved slats 220 thus contains the photovoltaic material forming the components 230.

[0093] Depending on the angle and position of external light incident of an at least partially reflective concave side (similarly referred to as a “front” side, the “rear side” being generally convex), some light may be reflected to the back of a neighboring slat 220 to be incident on the photovoltaic material component 230, as is illustrated by example ray 97. According to some angles and positions of incidence, some light may be reflected back out through the window 50, as is illustrated by example ray 99. The specific one of the two paths the light takes depends on the incident angle, i.e., the angle at which light strikes the reflective surface. Even when all the external light rays approaching the window blind are parallel, the angle of incidence of the light rays when they strike the reflective surface will vary due to the curvature of the slats. Some rays will travel back out the window, and other rays will reflect and strike a photovoltaic component 230. It is noted that the angle and position of incidence of rays on the slats 220 depends on the specific curvature of each slat 220, as well as an angle of rotation of the slats 220 relative to the window and an angle of the sun relative to the window and the blind system 200. Thisconfiguration allows both heat management, by reflecting light away from the room, and energy production from solar light striking the photovoltaic components 230.

[0094] Yet another embodiment of a solar window blind system 300 according to the present technology is illustrated in Figures 9 and 10. Elements of the system 300 that are similar to those of the system 100 retain the same reference numeral and will generally not be described again.

[0095] The solar window blind system 300 includes a light blocking assembly 310, which specifically includes a rollable shade 312. The rollable shade 312 is capable of being rolled up and down by the motor 118, between a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration. The rollable shade 312 is generally made from a fabric material, although different materials are contemplated.

[0096] The system 300 includes a photovoltaic component 330, specifically a photovoltaic sheet 330, disposed on a window-facing side of the rollable shade 312. For this purpose, flexible, thin-film solar material, which is commercially available, can be used as the sheet. This sheet can be attached to a fabric cover with adhesive, or other appropriate hardware such as thread, rivets, etc. Alternatively, the shade or cover itself can be composed of the photovoltaic material, obviating the need for a separate cover.

[0097] The photovoltaic sheet 330 is electrically connected to the rechargeable battery 150 for charging thereby, similarly to the system 100. It is noted that the rollable shade 312 needs to be at least partially deployed in order for light to be converted into electrical energy by the system 300.

[0098] The system 300 also includes light sources 360 disposed on the rollable cover 312 of the assembly 310. In the present embodiment, the light sources 360 are a series of LED strips 360. While six, vertically extending LED strips 360 are illustrated, it is contemplated that more or fewer LED strips 360 could be included. It is also contemplated that different arrangements of the LED strips 360 and photovoltaic material could be used, for example with various orientations and spacing. For example, the LED strips 360 could be arranged in horizontal rows, instead of the vertical columns shown in the figure, which might facilitate the rolling up of the shade. The LEDstrips 360 are disposed on a side of the rollable shade 312 opposite the window 50 and the photovoltaic component 330, such that when in use, the LED strips 360 can be used to light the room when the rollable shade 312 is in the deployed configuration. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the LED strips 360 could be disposed on the same side of the rollable shade 312 as the photovoltaic sheet 330, in order to provide lights to be seen or used on an exterior of the window 50.

[0099] With reference to Figure 17, a solar window blind system 400 for a plurality of windows is illustrated. Elements of the system 400 that are similar to those of the system 100 retain the same reference numeral and will generally not be described again.[000100] Recognizing that some windows of a given building are exposed to more sunlight than others, including because of the physical cardinal (N-S-E-W) orientation of a given window or because of an adjacent building blocking the sun, the solar window blind system 400 includes a plurality of window blinds 401, 405 disposed on different windows, each with lights thereon. The window blinds 401, 405 are electrically connected to each other such that a battery associated with one window blind is arranged to power the lights of one or more of the window blinds 401, 405 of the system 400.[000101] According to non-limiting embodiments of the present technology, the solar window blind system 400 includes a plurality of window blind assemblies 401, 405. Each window blind assembly 401, 405 is configured to variably block light passing through a corresponding one of the plurality of windows 50. The system 400 also includes the microcontroller 114 and the rechargeable battery 150, as described above with respect to the window blind system 100. In some embodiments, each window blind assembly 401, 405 could additionally or alternatively include a separate microcontroller 114. It is also contemplated that the system 400 could include more than one battery 150.[000102] Each window blind assembly 401, 405 includes a light blocking assembly, including slats integrally formed from a base sheet with a supporting strip, and a motor operatively connected to the light blocking assembly for moving the light blocking assembly (not individually labeled). Each window blind assembly 401, 405 includes one or more light sources 415, specifically LED strips 415 disposed on some of the slats of each window blind assembly 401,405. The light sources 415 of the assemblies 401, 405 are electrically connected to the battery 150 for powering thereby.[000103] The system 400 further includes at least one photovoltaic component 410 residing at one or more of the window blind assemblies. In the illustrated embodiment, the window blind assembly 401 includes photovoltaic cells 410 disposed on some of the slats. The photovoltaic cells 410 are electrically connected to the battery 150, such that electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic cells 410 charges the battery 150 when the system 400 is in use. The window blind assemblies 405 do not, in contrast, contain any photovoltaic complements in the present nonlimiting example.[000104] The rechargeable battery 150 is electrically coupled to and charged by the photovoltaic cells 410, such that the rechargeable battery 150, electrically connected to the LED strips 415, is capable of powering the light sources 415 of each window blind assembly 401, 405.[000105] While the system 400 is illustrated with only one window 50 having the window blind 401 having the photovoltaic cells 410, it is contemplated that additional windows connected to an otherwise embodiment of the system 400 could be provided with a window blind having the photovoltaic cells 410. It is also contemplated that the window blind assembly 401, provided with the photovoltaic cells 410, may omit the LED strips 415 in some embodiments.[000106] In such an embodiment, if the photovoltaic elements of one window blind do not receive enough sunlight to charge the battery, the battery of a second window blind, perhaps disposed at a different window, could power the lights of the first window blind or other such window blind assemblies. The ratio of window blinds to batteries can be variable and may be chosen according to particular circumstances.[000107] With reference to Figure 18, a motor-operated window blind system 500, referred to as the system 500, powered by solar energy is illustrated. Elements of the system 500 that are similar to those of the system 100 retain the same reference numeral and will generally not be described again.[000108] Recognizing that when a window blind is in its retracted configuration, the photovoltaic material thereon may not receive sufficient sunlight, a solution therefor is nowdescribed, which is labeled in Figure 18 as system 500. This system 500 as described below includes a window that contains transparent photovoltaic material, which receives solar energy that is used to charge a battery. An example of a company that manufactures a transparent solar coating for windows is Ubiquitous Energy™, Inc. The battery powers lights disposed on the window blind. Advantageously, even when the blind is in the retracted configuration, the photovoltaic material of the window may continue to receive sunlight to charge the battery. The battery can then power the lights disposed on the blind when desired. As mentioned previously, the word “transparent” in the phrase transparent photovoltaic material does not mean that 100% of light passes therethrough. Rather, transparent is understood to mean substantially transparent, so that scenery is visible when looking through the transparent material, but at the same time, enough light is being absorbed by the material to permit the photovoltaic effect to occur.[000109] The system 500 includes a window blind 510 disposed near a window 580. The window blind 510 includes a light blocking assembly 512 capable of assuming a deployed configuration to block external light entering through the window 580, and a retracted configuration to allow external light to enter through the window 580. The light blocking assembly 512 includes a plurality of integrally formed rotatable slats 520 operatively connected to a motor 118 of the system 500. The deployed and retracted configurations are similar to those illustrated for the system 100 and will not be described further.[000110] The system 500 includes light sources 560 disposed on the light blocking assembly 512. Specifically, the system 500 includes a plurality of LED strips 560, with one LED strip 560 disposed on each rotatable slat 520. Depending on the embodiment, more or fewer light sources 560 could be included in the system 500.[000111] The system 500 further includes the motor 118 as mentioned above, the microcontroller 114 for controlling and operatively connected to the motor 118. The system 500 also includes the battery 150 for powering the light sources 560. In the present embodiment, the motor 118 is electrically connected to the battery 150 such that the battery 650 serves to power the motor 618 when in use. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the battery 150 could only power the light sources 560 and the motor 118 could be powered by a power source external to the system 500.[000112] According to this embodiment, the window 580 includes one or more transparent glass panes 582, with embodiments being similar to standard residential or commercial building windows. The window 580 also has a transparent photovoltaic material 585 disposed on the pane 582. While the material 585 is illustrated as being applied to an exterior side of the window 580, it is contemplated that the material 585 could additionally or alternatively be applied to an interior surface of the window 580. The battery 150 is electrically connected to the transparent photovoltaic material 585 of the window 580, wherein the photovoltaic material 585 is utilized to charge said battery 150.[000113] In at least some embodiments, the motor 118 could be electrically connected to the transparent photovoltaic material 585 such the motor 118 is powered by utilizing the transparent photovoltaic material 585 when the system 500 in use.[000114] In some embodiments, the system 500 as described above could be provided for use with the window 580, for instance for a window previously installed in a building having a photovoltaic material applied thereto. In some other embodiments, the system 500 could further include the window 580 and / or the photovoltaic material 585. For example, the system 500 could provide both the window blind 510 and the photovoltaic material 585 to be applied to a window of a building.[000115] Generally speaking, the systems 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 as described above have elements of the light blocking assembly capable of moving, such as from the deployed configuration to the retracted configuration. In the case of a Venetian blind, the light blocking assembly (and in particular, the slats) is also capable of moving while in the deployed configuration by rotating, typically in unison. When the light sources reside on the slats, moving the slats affords the opportunity to move the lights in various ways. As the slat rotates, the lights thereon will be directed at various angles, providing an additional degree of freedom which can offer an extra convenience.[000116] For at least some of the embodiments described above, the lights or light sources on the window blind, which can be static or dynamic, may be directed onto the ceiling to mimic natural light or to simulate a sunny day when it is cloudy, which may be beneficial to health. These lights can augment or supplant other conventional light sources in a room. Alternatively, the lightsmay be pointed to the floor of the room to eliminate glare that could arise if the lights were pointed at someone’s eyes.[000117] The light sources of at least some of the above-described systems may be disposed on some part or most of the light blocking assembly, on the front and / or the back. For example, in the case of a Venetian blind, the light strips can appear on a variable fraction of the slats. In some embodiments, every slat will have a light strip thereon. In others, only every other slat, for instance, will have a light strip. The light strip can extend the full length of the slat or on just a portion of the slat. The light strip can be disposed on just one side of the slat or on both sides. In one example, the light strip can alternate from front to back on successive slats.[000118] A portable charging station 600 consistent with the principles of the present technology is schematically illustrated in Figure 19. The portable charging station 600 includes a base sheet 601 having a strip 610 in a border region, and slats 620 extending from the strip. The strip 610 and the slats 620 are created from the base sheet by making monolithic cuts therein. When making these cuts, care is taken to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the strip. In other words, cuts are made in the base sheet, but the strip and the slats remain attached to each other.[000119] Photovoltaic cells 630 lie on or are embedded in at least one of the slats 620 and conducting wire 640 lies on or is embedded in the strip 620. The conducting wire 640 is electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cells. The slats 620 are capable of assuming a retracted configuration (not shown) suitable for transport, and an extended configuration that exposes the photovoltaic cells to sunlight. In the extended configuration, light can be harvested by the photovoltaic cells to create electricity.[000120] Although embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, those of skill in the art will appreciate that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope thereof as defined by the appended claims. For example, it will be appreciated that the controller or microcontroller described herein can include various processors that are proximal or remote from each other. Moreover, it is contemplated that the vertical strips to which slats are attached can vary in position and number. In some embodiments, the window blind system will have one or more strips on only one side of the slats.In other embodiments, the window blind system will have one or more strips on both sides of the slats. Some of these strips will have current carrying wires to conduct current between the slats, while some of these strips will be home run strips bringing current from the bottom (or top) of the window blind system to the top (or bottom). Other strips may not have electrical wires but instead act to provide support for the window blind system. It should also be appreciated that the orientation of the window blind system can be rotated by 90 degrees resulting in a system with vertical slats and horizontal strips. Some of these strips can be folded together giving rise to a thicker resultant strip. Furthermore, in some window blind systems having just one vertical strip, all the slats may be connected to the one vertical strip. In window blind systems having a vertical strip on each side of the slats, every other slat (or some other appropriate subset) may be connected to the left strip, and the remaining every other slat may be connected to the right strip. Alternatively, all the slats may be connected to the left strip on one side and all the slats may be connected to the right strip on the other side.[000121] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A window blind system comprising: a first blind structure including a first strip and a first set of slats extending from the first strip, the first strip and the first set of slats being integrally formed; at least one electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one slat from the first set; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in the first strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the at least one electrical device, wherein the first set of slats is capable of at least one of retraction and rotation.

2. The window blind system of claim 1, wherein the first strip and the first set of slats are created from a base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the first set of slats from being completely severed from the first strip.

3. The window blind system of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical device includes at least one photovoltaic cell.

4. The window blind system of claim 1, wherein: each slat of the first set includes photovoltaic cells; and the conducting wire electrically couples the photovoltaic cells in different slats of the first set.

5. The window blind system of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical device is at least one of a motion sensor and a light sensor.

6. The window blind system of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrical device is a light source.

7. The window blind system of claim 6, wherein the light source is a light emitting diode (LED) strip.

8. The window blind system of claim 1, further comprising: a battery; and a light source powered by the battery, wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells for charging the battery.

9. The window blind system of claim 1, further comprising: a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells for charging the battery, and the set of slats is retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

10. The window blind system of claim 1, further comprising: a second blind structure including a second strip and a second set of slats extending from the second strip, wherein: the second strip and the second set of slats are integrally formed, the second set of slats is capable of at least one of retraction and rotation, and the first set of slats and the second set of slats are arranged to complement each other to variably block light.

11. The window blind system of claim 10, wherein: the first strip and the first set of slats are created from a base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the first set of slats from being completely severed from the first strip; and the second strip and the second set of slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein.

12. The window blind system of claim 10, further comprising: at least one additional electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one slat of the second set; and additional conducting wire lying on or embedded in the second strip, said additional conducting wire electrically coupled to the at least one additional electrical device.

13. The window blind system of claim 12, further comprising a ladder for retracting at least one of the first set and the second set.

14. The window blind system of claim 10, further comprising: a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, and wherein: the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells that charge the battery, and the first set and the second set of slats are retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

15. The window blind system of claim 14, further comprising: at least one of a sensor powered by the battery; and a light source powered by the battery.

16. A window blind system comprising: a base sheet that includes a first vertical strip in a left border region, a second vertical strip in a right border region opposite the left border region, and horizontal slats running between the first and second vertical strips, the first vertical strip, the second vertical strip and the slats being integrally formed; at least one electrical device lying on or embedded in at least one of the slats; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in at least one of the first vertical strip and the second vertical strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the electrical device.

17. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein: the first vertical strip, the second vertical strip and the slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein, said cuts being limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the first vertical strip and to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the second vertical strip.

18. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein: the first strip is a double ribbon.

19. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells.

20. The window blind system of claim 19, wherein: each of the horizontal slats includes photovoltaic cells; and the conducting wire electrically couples the photovoltaic cells in neighbouring slats.

21. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein the at least one electrical device is at least one of a motion sensor and a light sensor.

22. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein the at least one electrical device is a light source.

23. The window blind system of claim 22, wherein the light source is a light emitting diode (LED) strip.

24. The window blind system of claim 16, wherein the slats are selectively rotatable to variably block light.

25. The window blind system of claim 16, further comprising: a battery; and an electric motor powered by the battery, wherein the at least one electrical device includes photovoltaic cells for charging the battery, and the slats are retractable with assistance from the electric motor.

26. A method for manufacturing a blind system comprising: cutting a base sheet to form: a first base sheet and a complimentary second base sheet, a first strip near a first border region of the first base sheet, and a second strip near a second border region of the second base sheet, and first slats extending from the first strip, and second slats extending from the second strip, the first slats and the second slats complementing each other to variably block light, the cutting being limited to prevent the first slats from being completely severed from the first strip; connecting at least one of the first slats and the second slats to at least one ladder for retracting the at least one of the first slats and the second slats; attaching at least one electrical device to the first slats; and electrically connecting the at least one electrical device to a conducting wire that lies on or is embedded in the first strip,.

27. A method for manufacturing a blind system comprising: making cuts in a base sheet to form: a first strip near a border region of the sheet, a second strip near an opposite border region of the sheet, and slats disposed therebetween, the cuts being limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the first strip; attaching at least one electrical device to the slats; and electrically connecting the at least one electrical device to a conducting wire thatlies on or is embedded in at least one of the first strip and the second strip.

28. A portable charging station comprising: a base sheet that includes: a strip in a border region, and slats extending from the strip, wherein the strip and the slats are created from the base sheet by making cuts therein, wherein the cuts are limited to prevent the slats from being completely severed from the strip; photovoltaic cells lying on or embedded in at least one of the slats; and conducting wire lying on or embedded in the strip, said conducting wire electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cells, wherein said slats are capable of assuming: a retracted configuration suitable for transport, and an extended configuration suitable for harvesting light to create electricity with the aid of the photovoltaic cells.

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