Architectural structure covering

Abstract

There is provided an architectural structure covering configured to be mounted to an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a first moveable rail; a second moveable rail; a covering material extending between the first and second moveable rails, the covering material configured to retract and extend in response to relative movement of the first and second moveable rails towards each other and away from each other, respectively; and an actuator system configured to move the second moveable rail; wherein the actuator system comprises an elongate flexible member connecting the first and second moveable rails such that movement of the second moveable rail is actuated directly by movement of the first moveable rail, and the actuator system is configured such that moving the first moveable rail through a first distance relative to the architectural structure drives the elongate flexible member to cause the second moveable rail to move through a second distance relative to the architectural structure, the second distance being twice the first distance.

Description

[0001] Architectural Structure Covering

[0002] The present disclosure is in the field of architectural structure coverings, and in particular, coverings having a covering material extending between two moveable rails.

[0003] Many different types of architectural structure covering are known. Architectural structure coverings can be used with any type of architectural structure, such as openings including windows, doors and skylights. In general, architectural structure coverings provide a covering material (such as a blind material, curtain or screen) which is extended across an architectural structure, such as an opening, and retracted when not in use.

[0004] There are a number of different types of retractable covering. These include roller blinds, pleated blinds, cellular blinds, and Roman blinds, to name a few examples. Retractable coverings have a mechanism for retracting and extending a covering material. In some coverings, a covering material extends between two rails such that the covering can be extended or retracting by moving one or both of the rails.

[0005] However, mechanisms for moving the rails present challenges. For example, rails may be moved using lift cords coupled to drive spools. In the case of a large covering, a large length of cord may be needed, meaning that large drive spools are required. Large coverings present further challenges, because covering materials have a maximum drop length, which limits the height of the covering when the covering material extends continuously between a headrail and a rail provided at the lower end of the covering material. Furthermore, where two moveable rails are provided, there is a challenge in configuring the movement of both rails to extend and retract the covering as desired.

[0006] It is an aim of the invention to at least partially address some of the above- mentioned problems.

[0007] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an architectural structure covering configured to be mounted to an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a first moveable rail; a second moveable rail; a covering material extending between the first and second moveable rails, the covering material configured to retract and extend in response to relative movement of the first and second moveable rails towards each other and away from each other, respectively; and an actuator system configured to move the second moveable rail; wherein the actuator system comprises an elongate flexible member connecting the first and second moveable rails such that movement of the second moveable rail is actuated directly by movement of the first moveable rail, and the actuator system is configured such that moving the first moveable rail through a first distance relative to the architectural structure drives the elongate flexible member to cause the second moveable rail to move through a second distance relative to the architectural structure, the second distance being twice the first distance.

[0008] Optionally, a first end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed relative to the architectural structure such that the architectural structure applies a reaction force to the first end of the elongate flexible member to hold the elongate flexible member under tension.

[0009] Optionally, the first and second moveable rails are both configured to move in opposite first and second directions; a second end of the elongate flexible member is coupled to the second moveable rail; and the first moveable rail comprises a guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a loop; wherein the first end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at a location that is on the same side, in the first direction, of the first moveable rail as the location of the second moveable rail, such that moving the first moveable rail in the first direction drives the elongate flexible member around the loop to cause the second moveable rail to move in the first direction, and moving the first moveable rail in the second direction drives the elongate flexible member around the loop to cause the second moveable rail to move in the second direction.

[0010] Optionally, the architectural structure covering further comprises: first and second architectural structure guides configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at first and second ends of the architectural structure, set apart from each other in the first direction; and the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around first and second fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the first architectural structure guide to the second architectural structure guide.

[0011] Optionally, starting from the first end of the elongate flexible member, the elongate flexible member extends around the loop provided on the first moveable rail, then extends around the first and second fixed loops in turn, and then extends to the second end of the elongate flexible member that is coupled to the second moveable rail. Optionally, the second end of the elongate flexible member is coupled to the second moveable rail by a resilient element.

[0012] Optionally, the actuator system further comprises a second elongate flexible member connecting the first and second moveable rails such that moving the first moveable rail drives the second elongate flexible member to cause the second moveable rail to move, and respective first ends of the first and second elongate flexible members are fixed relative to the architectural structure, on opposite sides of the covering in a direction parallel to a longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails.

[0013] Optionally, the second elongate flexible member is arranged in a manner corresponding to the arrangement of the first elongate flexible member.

[0014] Optionally, the second end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed to the architectural structure; the elongate flexible member extends through the second moveable rail; and the architectural structure applies a reaction force to the first and second ends of the elongate flexible member to hold the elongate flexible member under tension. In such an arrangement, the second moveable rail may be self-levelling, meaning that it will automatically be horizontal. In contrast, in arrangements having two elongate flexible members, both elongate flexible members need to be exactly the same length in order for the second moveable rail to be horizontal. With the present arrangement, such complexity is avoided in assembly.

[0015] Optionally, the first and second moveable rails are both configured to move in opposite first and second directions, the first moveable rail comprises a first guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a first loop, and a second guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a second loop; wherein the first and second ends of the elongate flexible member are configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at respective locations that are on the same side, in the first direction, of the first moveable rail as the location of the second moveable rail, such that moving the first moveable rail in the first direction drives the elongate flexible member around the first and second loops to cause the second moveable rail to move in the first direction, and moving the first moveable rail in the second direction drives the elongate flexible member around the first and second loops to cause the second moveable rail to move in the second direction. Optionally, the architectural structure covering further comprises: first and second architectural structure guides configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at first and second ends of the architectural structure, set apart from each other in the first direction; third and fourth architectural structure configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at the first and second ends of the architectural structure; wherein the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to be positioned on a first side of the architectural structure; the third and fourth architectural structure guides are configured to be positioned on a second side of the architectural structure, with the first and second architectural structure guides separated from the third and fourth architectural structure guides, respectively, in a direction parallel to a longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails; the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around first and second fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the first architectural structure guide to the second architectural structure guide; and the third and fourth architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around third and fourth fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the third architectural structure guide to the fourth architectural structure guide.

[0016] Optionally, starting from the first end of the elongate flexible member, the elongate flexible member extends around the first loop provided on the first moveable rail, then extends around the first and second fixed loops in turn, then extends through the second moveable rail, then extends around the fourth and third fixed loops in turn, and then extends to the second end of the elongate flexible member.

[0017] Optionally, a middle portion of the elongate flexible member comprises a resilient element.

[0018] Optionally, the architectural structure covering further comprises a drive system configured to move the first moveable rail, wherein the drive system is coupled to the first moveable rail but is not otherwise coupled to the actuator system.

[0019] Optionally, the drive system comprises a drive shaft, at least one drive spool mounted on the drive shaft, and a driven elongate flexible member coupled to the drive spool and the first moveable rail, and the drive system is configured such that rotation of the drive shaft causes the driven elongate flexible member to wind onto the drive spool, or unwind from the drive spool, to move the first moveable rail.

[0020] Optionally, the architectural structure covering further comprises: a headrail; and a second covering material extending between the headrail and the first moveable rail, the second covering material configured to retract and extend in response to movement of the first moveable rail towards the headrail and away from the headrail, respectively.

[0021] Optionally, the drive shaft and at least one drive spool are contained within the headrail.

[0022] Optionally, the covering material is a pleated or cellular blind material.

[0023] Optionally, the covering material comprises a plurality of openings aligned in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails, and a portion of the elongate flexible member is configured to extend in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails through the openings in the covering material.

[0024] Embodiments of the invention will be more clearly understood from the following description, given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering.

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering of Figure 1 with the first and second moveable rails having changed position.

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of the architectural structure covering of Figures 1 and 2, where the first and second moveable rails have yet again changed position.

[0028] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering having two elongate flexible members.

[0029] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of the architectural structure covering of Figure 4, further comprising architectural structure guides.

[0030] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering having a single elongate flexible member extending through the second moveable rail.

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering showing an example of a drive system.

[0032] Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of an architectural structure covering wherein the elongate flexible member extends through the covering material. The present disclosure provides an architectural structure covering in which a covering material (which may also be referred to as a shade, shade material, or simply covering) extends between a first rail and a second rail. The first and second rails are both moveable. The covering material is configured to retract and extend in response to relative movement of the first and second moveable rails towards each other and away from each other, respectively. In this way, the covering material spans the distance between the first and second moveable rails, and the extent of the covering material in a direction from the first rail to the second rail changes in response to a change in the distance by which the first and second rails are spaced apart.

[0033] There are several types of retractable covering material that can be operated by moving two moveable rails. The mechanisms of the present disclosure can in general be practised with any type of retractable covering material. For example, retractable blinds which may be operated using the mechanisms of the present disclosure include pleated blinds and cellular / honeycomb blinds. The covering material extending between the first and second moveable rails could be a roller blind, with the covering material configured to be wound around a roller within one of the moveable rails, using a roller spring assist.

[0034] Architectural structure coverings in general provide a shade (such as a blind material or screen) which is extended across an architectural structure and retracted when not in use. In the present disclosure, an architectural structure may be a window, a door, an archway, or any other architectural feature to which a covering may be mounted. The architectural structure (such as a window or doorway) occupies an area or plane generally defined by a height and width. For example, a window or doorway (examples of architectural structures) may occupy an area defined by the height and width of the window or doorway.

[0035] In the present disclosure, parts are considered to be moveable when they are moveable relative to the architectural structure, and parts are configured to be stationary when they are stationary relative to the architectural structure. The architectural structure therefore provides a frame of reference for describing moving parts of the systems described herein. Of course, the architectural structure itself may be moveable. For example, the architectural structure coverings disclosed herein could be mounted to a door or other moving architectural structure. However, for ease of description, the following description will assume that the architectural structure is stationary.

[0036] In the following description “vertical” and “horizontal” mean in the direction of gravity, and perpendicular to the direction of gravity, respectively. When an architectural structure covering is mounted to an architectural structure, the first and second moveable rails may extend horizontally across the width of the architectural structure, for example across the width of a window or door opening. The first and second rails may be configured to translate vertically upwards and downwards. This is the case when the area defined by the architectural structure is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0037] However, in some arrangements, the directions of translation of the moveable rails may have both vertical and horizontal components, with the horizontal component perpendicular to the width of the architectural structure. This is the case when the area defined by the architectural structure is not parallel to the vertical direction, for example in a slanted roof window.

[0038] Therefore, in the following description, “upward” and “downward” movement of a movable rail mean translation in a direction towards the top end of an architectural structure, and translation towards the bottom end of an architectural structure, respectively. “Upward” and “downward” directions of movement are both perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the moveable rails, and lie within the area or plane defined by the architectural structure.

[0039] An example of an architectural structure covering 100 according to the present disclosure is illustrated in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the architectural structure covering 100 includes a covering material 21 extending between a first moveable rail 10 and a second moveable rail 13. The first and second movable rails 10, 13 are configured to extend in the width direction of an architectural structure 200 (such as a window or door opening).

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, the architectural structure 200 defines an area or a plane within the plane of the page of the figure. The architectural structure defines a first end 61 and a second end 62. A first direction dl of movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 is towards the first end 61. A second direction d2 of movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13, opposite the first direction dl, is towards the second end 62. In any of the arrangements described herein, the first direction dl may be downwards and the second direction d2 may be upwards, however the invention is not limited in that regard.

[0041] The architectural structure covering 100 also includes an actuator system 3 configured to move the second moveable rail 13. The actuator system 3, which is illustrated schematically in Figure 1, comprises an elongate flexible member 31. The elongate flexible member 31 connects the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. The elongate flexible member 31 is routed around a predetermined path relative to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and the architectural structure 200, such that movement of the second moveable rail 13 is directly actuated by movement of the first moveable rail 10.

[0042] The elongate flexible member 31 is not particularly limited, provided that the elongate flexible member 31 is flexible in the sense that it can bend around curves and loops in the path that it follows, and that parts of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed or restrained relative to other structural elements so as to be held under tension. An elongate flexible member 31 may be a cord, a ribbon, or a chain, for example. The manner in which the elongate flexible member 31 connects the first and second moveable rails 10, 13, and the path around which the elongate flexible member 31 is routed, may be configured such that moving the first moveable rail 10 causes the tension in the elongate flexible member 31 to pull the second moveable rail 13 upwards, or causes the second moveable rail 13 to move downwards under its own weight at a rate determined by the tension in the elongate flexible member 31. The elongate flexible member 31 may be coupled to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and / or the architectural structure 200 and may be routed in various ways so that the movement of the second moveable rail 13 is directly actuated by movement of the first moveable rail 10. A number of example arrangements will be described herein.

[0043] In the example arrangements described herein, the tension in the elongate flexible member 31 is a result of the forces acting on the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and a reaction force applied to the elongate flexible member 31 by the architectural structure 200. The forces acting on the first moveable rail 10 include the weight of the first moveable rail 10 under gravity and an upwards force (such as an upwards suspending force) to hold the first moveable rail 10 at a given position. The forces acting on the second moveable rail 20 include the weight of the second moveable rail 13 under gravity.

[0044] The first moveable rail 10 may be held in place in any manner. For example, the first moveable rail 10 may be suspended, or may be held in place by friction (for example by tracks provided to hold each end of the first moveable rail 10). The first moveable rail 10 may be moved in any manner, for example a separate drive system may be provided for moving the first moveable rail 10, to be described later. Alternatively, or additionally, the first moveable rail 10 may be manually moveable. Movement of the first moveable rail 10 directly actuating movement of the second moveable rail 13 means that the first moveable rail 10 is moveable in response to a user input, and the second moveable rail 13 moves in direct response to the movement of the first moveable rail 10. This is in contrast to systems in which both moveable rails move in direct response to a user input, for example systems in which each moveable rail is separately connected by a lift cord to a common drive shaft. In the arrangement of the present disclosure, the second moveable rail 13 may be moveable only by moving the first moveable rail 10.

[0045] In the arrangements described herein, the actuator system 3 is configured such that translating the first moveable rail 10 through a first distance relative to the architectural structure 200 (for example, relative to the second end 62) drives the elongate flexible member 31 to cause the second moveable rail 13 to translate through a second distance relative to the architectural structure 200 (for example, relative to the second end 62). The second distance is twice the first distance. This manner of moving the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The actuator system 3 is configured such that, whenever the first moveable rail 10 is moving relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 also moves with respect to the architectural structure 200. In contrast, when the first moveable rail 10 is stationary relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 is also stationary with respect to the architectural structure 200. Furthermore, because the movement of the second moveable rail 13 is directly actuated by movement of the first moveable rail 10, the position of the second moveable rail 13 (in the first direction dl) relative to the first moveable rail and thus the architectural structure, is determined by the position of the first moveable rail 10 (in the first direction dl) relative to the architectural structure 200.

[0046] Referring to Figure 1, the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 are both moveable in direction dl (downwards) relative to the architectural structure 200. The first and second moveable rails 10, 13 are also moveable in direction d2 (upwards) relative to the architectural structure 200. The first end 61 (lower end) of the architectural structure is located in the first direction dl (downwards) relative to the first and second moveable rails. The second end 62 (upper end) of the architectural structure 200 is located in the second direction d2 (upwards) relative to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. The location of the second moveable rail 13 relative to the first moveable rail 10 is in the first direction dl .

[0047] The actuator system 3 is configured such that the direction of movement of the second moveable rail 13 is determined by the direction of movement of the first moveable rail 10. In the arrangements described herein, the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 only move in the same direction. For example, if the first moveable rail 10 is moved in direction dl (lowered), then the second moveable rail 13 is also moved in direction dl (lowered). When the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 are moved in direction dl (lowered), the covering material 21 also moves in direction dl (is lowered) with the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. If the first moveable rail 10 is moved in direction d2 (raised), then the second moveable rail 13 is also moved in direction d2 (raised). When the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 are moved in direction d2 (raised), the covering material 21 also moves in direction d2 (is raised) with the first and second moveable rails 10, 13.

[0048] Figure 2 shows the same arrangement as Figure 1, wherein both moveable rails 10, 13 have been moved in direction dl to new positions relative to the architectural structure 200. As shown in Figure 2, the first moveable rail 10 has been lowered in direction dl through a distance hl, relative to the architectural structure 200. The second moveable rail 13 has been lowered in direction dl through a distance h2 relative to the architectural structure 200 (and through distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10), in response to the movement of the first moveable rail 10. The connection between the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 by the elongate flexible member 31 is configured such that distance h2 is always double distance hl . This is because the second moveable rail 13 is configured to move through distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10, when the first moveable rail 10 moves through distance hl relative to the architectural structure 200. The distance h2 moved by the second moveable rail 13 relative to the architectural structure 200 is the sum of the distance hl moved by the second moveable rail 13 relative to the first moveable rail 10, and the distance hl moved by the first moveable rail 10 relative to the architectural structure 200. This means that the second moveable rail 13 moves at twice the speed as the first moveable rail 10 relative to the architectural structure 200.

[0049] The effect of the relationship between the movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 is that the covering material 21 is extended between the first and second moveable rails 10,13 in response to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 being moved in direction dl (downwards), as shown in Figure 2. When the second moveable rail 13 moves through distance hl relative to and away from the first moveable rail 10, this causes the length of the covering material 21 to extend by length hl.

[0050] Accordingly, in an arrangement the architectural covering may start in a position in which the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 are both at the top end (second end) of the architectural structure 200. To extend the covering, the first moveable rail 10 is lowered, in turn lowering the second moveable rail 13 by twice the distance of the first moveable rail 10, extending the covering between the two moveable rails 10, 13. Figure 2 shows the covering in a fully extended position, in which the second moveable rail 13 is located at the first end 61 (lower end) of the architectural structure 200, and the first moveable rail 10 is substantially at the halfway position between the first end 61 (lower end) and second end 61 (upper end) of the architectural structure. The actuator system 3 is configured such that the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 reach these respective positions at the same time.

[0051] Turning to Figure 3, this figure shows the same arrangement as Figure 2 wherein the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 have now been moved in direction d2 (upwards). As shown in Figure 3, the first moveable rail 10 has moved upwards through distance hl relative to its previous position (shown in dashed lines). Second moveable rail 13 has moved upwards through distance h2 relative to its previous position (shown in dashed lines), and upwards through distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10. As discussed with respect to Figure 2, because of the manner in which the elongate flexible member 31 is connected to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13, distance h2 is always twice distance hl. The distance h2 moved by the second moveable rail 13 relative to the architectural structure 200 is the sum of the distance hl moved by the second moveable rail 13 relative to the first moveable rail 10, and the distance hl moved by the first moveable rail 10 relative to the architectural structure. This means that the second moveable rail 13 moves at twice the speed as the first moveable rail 10 relative to the architectural structure 200.

[0052] As illustrated by Figure 3, the effect of the relationship between the movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 is that, when both moveable rails 10, 13 are moved in the second direction d2, the covering material 21 is retracted. In particular, when the first moveable rail 10 is moved upwards through distance hl relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 is moved upwards relative to the architectural structure by a distance h2 that is twice hl. The net effect of these movements is that the second moveable rail 13 moves towards the first moveable rail 10 by a distance hl and the covering material 21 between the two moveable rails 10, 13 is retracted by a distance hl . If both moveable rails 10, 13 are moved all of the way to the second end 62 (upper end) of the architectural structure 200, then the covering material 21 is completely retracted. The actuator system 3 is configured such that the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 reach the second end 62 (upper end) of the architectural structure 200 at substantially the same time.

[0053] Because of the manner in which the movement of the second moveable rail 13 is determined by the movement of the first moveable rail 10, a positional relationship between the first and second moveable rails and the architectural structure 200 is always maintained. Referring to Figures 1 to 3, with reference to the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200 (the upper end of the architectural structure), the first moveable rail 10 is always positioned halfway between the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200 and the second moveable rail 13. As shown in Figure 2, this enables a covering to be used as a privacy shading, where only the lower half of a window needs to be covered, and the top half of the window can still provide sunlight. This configuration may also be particularly desirable in arrangements where a second covering material is provided between the first moveable rail and the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200, which will be described later, because the first and second covering materials are simultaneously extended / retracted through the same distance.

[0054] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 have different respective ranges of movement. For example, the second moveable rail 13 may be configured to be moveable between the first end 61 and the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200. In contrast, the first moveable rail 10 may be configured to be moveable between the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200 and a position halfway between the first end 61 and second end 62. Thus, the range of movement of the second moveable rail 13 may be double the range of movement of the first moveable rail 10.

[0055] Now, example arrangements of an elongate flexible member will be described. In the arrangements described herein, the elongate flexible member 31 may have a first end 311 and a second end 312, as shown for example in Figures 4 to 6. This is in contrast to an elongate member being configured as an endless loop having no ends. The length of the elongate flexible member 31 between its first end 311 and second end 312 is generally constant.

[0056] A first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed relative to the architectural structure 200. Being fixed relative to the architectural structure means having a constant position relative to the architectural structure during use, as opposed to being attached to an element that can be moved between different positions relative to the architectural structure (such as a rotatable spool or a free hanging handle attached to a clutch mechanism). The first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 being fixed relative to the architectural structure therefore means that the position of first end 311 relative to the architectural structure 200 is configured not to change during use.

[0057] For example, the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed to the architectural structure 200 using a cord holder, a cord foot, or cord mounting which is mounted to the architectural structure 200. A cord holder (or foot, mounting) may be mounted to a part of the surround of a window opening, for example. The cord holder (or foot, mounting) may maintain the position of the first end 311 by friction and / or knotting, as is known in the art.

[0058] The second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed to another structural element, such as a structural element located in / on the second moveable rail or to the architectural structure 200 (to be described later). By fixing the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 to architectural structure 200, the architectural structure 200 applies a reaction force to the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31, in reaction to the weight of the second moveable rail 13. A corresponding reaction force is also applied to the second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 by the structural element to which the second end 312 is fixed. The reaction forces applied to the ends 311, 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 mean that the elongate flexible member 31 is held under tension.

[0059] The connection between the elongate flexible member 31 and the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 means that the force acting on the second moveable rail 13 changes in response to a change in the tension in the elongate flexible member 31. Moving the first moveable rail 10, from a stationary position, adjusts the tension force in the elongate flexible member 31. The change in the tension force thus changes the total force acting on the second moveable rail 13. For example, the total force acting on the second moveable rail 13 may be the difference between the tension force in the elongate flexible member 31 and the weight of the second moveable rail 13. This allows the movement of the first rail 10 to directly actuate movement of the second moveable rail 13 by adjusting the tension in the elongate flexible member 31 by which they are connected. The elongate flexible member 31 being fixed relative to the architectural structure 200, and being held under tension, allows the position of the second moveable rail 13 to be determined by the position of the first moveable rail 10.

[0060] In the arrangements of the present disclosure, fixing the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 to the architectural structure 200, in order to provide tension in the elongate flexible member 31, may avoid the need for moving parts that provide tension. For example, in alternative arrangements, moving parts such as spools and user operable handles can be used to provide tension. However, in the arrangements of the present disclosure, by using the architectural structure 200 itself to provide the reaction force and tension in the elongate flexible member, moving parts requiring a user input in order to move the second moveable rail 13 are not required.

[0061] Now, an example arrangement of the elongate flexible member 31 will be described with reference to Figure 4.

[0062] When the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 is fixed to the architectural structure 200 (as described above), the second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be coupled to the second moveable rail 13. Such an arrangement is illustrated in Figure 4. The second end 312 being coupled to the second moveable rail 13 means that the position of the second end 312 is fixed relative to the second moveable rail 13, as discussed with regard to first end 311. For example, the second end 312 may be coupled to the second moveable rail 13 by being held by friction, or by being knotted, or in any other way.

[0063] The second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be coupled to the second moveable rail 13 at an end of the second moveable rail 13, or the elongate flexible member 31 may extend into a hollow interior of the second moveable rail 13 and be attached to part of the interior of the second moveable rail 13. The coupling of the second end 312 of elongate flexible member 31 to the second moveable rail 13 means that the weight of the second moveable rail 13 provides a force acting on the elongate flexible member 31, such that the forces applied to the first and second ends 311, 312 respectively hold the elongate flexible 31 member under tension.

[0064] As shown in Figure 4, first moveable rail 10 may include a guide 11 configured to guide a portion of elongate flexible member 31 around a loop Li l. As described herein, guides are structural members or structural features of members which are configured to guide the direction of extent of an elongate flexible member. In general, guides serve to guide an elongate flexible member along a predetermined path through the system. Guides may be configured so as to allow a portion of an elongate flexible member contacting the guide to move around the guide or part of the guide. Therefore, guides may be configured to provide minimal, or a controlled level of, friction between the surface of the guide and the part of the elongate flexible member in contact with that surface. A guide may be configured as a pin, a bearing, a rotatable pulley or wheel, or the like, which allow a portion of the elongate flexible member to move around the guide in a low friction manner.

[0065] As stated above the guide 11 is configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member 31 around a loop Li l. In the present disclosure, a loop is a part of the path followed by an elongate flexible member. The elongate flexible member can move around a loop in a path. In general, a loop provides a change of direction in the elongate flexible member. In the arrangements described herein, an elongate flexible member extends in a direction towards a loop, then extends around the loop so as to turn back on itself and extend back in the opposite direction. In the present disclosure, loops may be configured such that an elongate flexible member extends only once around a loop (or the guide defining the loop), without crossing itself.

[0066] With reference to Figure 4, the first end 311 of elongate flexible member 31 is fixed to the architectural structure 200 at a location that is on the same side of the first moveable rail 10 as the location of the second moveable rail 13, in the first direction dl . In other words, the end 311 and the second moveable rail 13 are always positioned below the first moveable rail 10. Thus, starting from end 311 of elongate flexible member 31, end 311 is attached to the architectural structure 200 at the first end 61 of the architectural structure. The elongate flexible member 31 extends upwards in the second direction d2 to the position of first moveable rail 10. Then, the elongate flexible member 31 is routed by the guide 11 around loop Li l. The loop Li l causes the elongate flexible member 31 to then extend back in the first direction dl (downwards) to the position of the second moveable rail 13, to which second end 312 of elongate flexible member 31 is fixed.

[0067] Because the ends 311, 312 are positioned on the same side of loop Li l, and because end 311 is fixed relative to the architectural structure and end 312 may move with the second moveable rail relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 moves in the first direction dl (downwards) in response to movement of first moveable rail 10 in the first direction dl (downwards). Likewise, the second movable rail 13 moves in direction d2 (upwards) in direct response to movement of the first moveable rail 10 in the second direction d2 (upwards).

[0068] Furthermore, because of the arrangement of the loop LI 1 on moveable rail 10, second moveable rail 13 moves through twice the distance as the distance moved by first moveable rail 10 relative to the architectural structure 200. Moving first moveable rail 10 upwards through a distance hl causes the second moveable rail 13 to move in the same direction through the same distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10, because of the movement of the elongate flexible member around loop LI L Thus, relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 moves through two times the distance hl moved by the first moveable rail 10. Thus, in the present arrangement, the second moveable rail 13 is configured to move through twice the distance moved by the first moveable rail 10 relative to architectural structure 200, based on the principle of a moving pulley loop Li l.

[0069] When first moveable rail 10 is moved in the first direction dl (downwards) through a distance hl, the weight of second moveable rail 13 causes the second moveable rail 13 to move in the first direction dl (downwards). The tension provided by the architectural structure 200 to the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 causes the second moveable rail 13 to move at a predetermined rate relative to the rate of movement of first moveable rail 10. The movement of elongate flexible member 31 around loop Li l causes second moveable rail 13 to move in direction dl through distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10. Therefore, relative to the architectural structure 200, second moveable rail 13 moves through twice the distance hl moved by the first moveable rail 10. Thus, the moving pulley principle applies to movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 in both directions dl and d2.

[0070] As shown in Figure 4, a second elongate flexible member 32 may be provided, which is arranged in a corresponding manner to the first elongate flexible member 31 as described above, so as to support the other end of the second moveable rail 13. Such an arrangement will be described later herein. However, a second elongate flexible member 32 is not essential. The second moveable rail may be moveable using a single elongate flexible member 31, and optionally an alternative mechanism could be used in place of a second elongate flexible member 32.

[0071] Now, another example arrangement of the elongate flexible member will be described with reference to Figure 5.

[0072] The architectural structure coverings described herein may comprise further guides, in addition to guide 11 provided on the first moveable rail. For example, with reference to Figure 5, first and second architectural structure guides 41, 42 may be fixed to the architectural structure 200. The first architectural structure guide 41 may be provided at the first end 61 of the architectural structure 200 and the second architectural structure guide 42 may be fixed to the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200, such that the first and second architectural structure guides 41, 42 are set apart from each other in the first direction.

[0073] In contrast to guide 11 which is provided on the first moveable rail 10 and thus moves with the first moveable rail 10, architectural structure guides 41 and 42 have their positions fixed relative to the architectural structure 200 during use. Otherwise, architectural structure guides 41, 42 are functionally similar to guide 11 as already described. That is, architectural structure guides 41, 42 are configured to guide a respective portion of elongate flexible member 31 around a respective loop L41, L42. In particular, architectural structure guides 41, 42 permit movement of the elongate flexible member around the loops L41 , L42 that they define . Similar to the guide 11 as already described, architectural structure guides 41, 42 may comprise wheels, pulleys, pins or other members configured to provide low friction relative to the elongate flexible member. The architectural structure guides 41, 42 may be separate mounting plates or members that are mounted to a surround of the architectural structure. In an arrangement, an architectural structure guide located at an upper end of the architectural structure (such as architectural guide 42) may be integral with a headrail, which will be described later.

[0074] The path followed by the elongate flexible member 31 is as follows. As shown in Figure 5, first end 311 of elongate flexible member 31 is fixed relative to architectural structure 200 at the first end 61 of the architectural structure 200. From here, elongate flexible member 31 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the position of the first moveable rail 10. Here, elongate flexible member 31 is guided by guide 11 around loop Li l such that elongate flexible member 31 turns back on itself and extends in the first direction dl (downwards) until it reaches architectural structure guide 41. Architectural structure guide 41 is positioned at the first end 61 of architectural structure 200. Architectural structure guide 41 guides elongate flexible member 31 around the first fixed loop L41 so that elongate flexible member 31 turns back on itself and then extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) until it reaches architectural structure guide 42 at the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200. Second architectural structure guide 42 guides the elongate flexible member 31 around the second fixed loop L42 such that elongate flexible member 31 then extends in the first direction dl (downwards) until it reaches the position of second moveable rail 13. Here, second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 is coupled to second moveable rail 13.

[0075] When the first moveable rail 10 is moved upwards, tension in the elongate flexible member 31 (provided by the attachment of end 311 to architectural structure 200 and the weight of the second moveable rail 13) causes elongate flexible member 31 to move around loop Li l. This movement of the first moveable rail 10 pulls the portion of elongate flexible member 31 between loop Li l and fixed loop L41 so that the elongate flexible member 31 moves around loop L41. This correspondingly pulls the length of elongate flexible member 31 between loops L41 and L42, such that the elongate flexible member moves around loop L42. This pulls the second end 312, and thus the second moveable rail 13, in the second direction (upwards).

[0076] When first moveable rail 10 is moved in the first direction dl (downwards) the weight of second moveable rail 13 pulls the portion of elongate flexible member 31 between end 312 and loop L42 in the first direction dl (downwards), which causes elongate flexible member 31 to move around loop L42. This correspondingly pulls the elongate flexible member between loops L41 and L42 in the second direction d2 (upwards). This causes the elongate flexible member 31 to move around loop L41. This then causes the elongate flexible member 31 to move around loop LI L As shown in Figure 5, below the first moveable rail 10, four portions (lengths) of the elongate flexible member 31 extend longitudinally in the first direction dl . Above the first moveable rail 10, two portions (lengths) of the elongate flexible member 31 extend longitudinally in the second direction d2. This arrangement means that, similar to the arrangement of Figure 4, moving first moveable rail 10 through a distance hl causes the second moveable rail 13 to move in the same direction through the same distance hl relative to the first moveable rail 10. Thus, relative to the architectural structure 200, the second moveable rail 13 moves through two times the distance hl moved by the first moveable rail 10. Thus the moving pulley principle discussed above can apply to arrangements having architectural structure guides.

[0077] In other arrangements (not illustrated), multiple pairs of architectural structure guides could be provided on the same side of the covering (such as on the first side 63 in Figure 5). For example, guiding the elongate flexible member 31 around an additional fixed loop adjacent architectural structure guide 42 and an additional fixed loop adjacent architectural structure guide 41 would result in four lengths of the elongate flexible member 31 extending above the first moveable rail 10, and six lengths of the elongate flexible member 31 extending below the first moveable rail 10. The second moveable rail 13 would still move through twice the distance moved by the first moveable rail 10, because of the additional two lengths extending below the first moveable rail 10.

[0078] In the example of Figure 5, the elongate flexible member 31 extends around loop Li l provided on first moveable rail 10 before extending around loops L41 and L42 in turn, before extending to the second moveable rail 13 to which it is fixed. Arranging the fixed loops in this manner determines the directions of the tension force at various points along elongate flexible member 31 . This arrangement of fixed loops L41, L42 also means that the elongate flexible member 31 is required to move around a longer path relative to the distance moved by the first and second moveable rails. This may provide smoother operation and better align the forces acting on the second moveable rail 13 with the intended directions of movement (dl or d2).

[0079] In the arrangement of Figure 5, the elongate flexible member 31 may move clockwise or anticlockwise around a particular loop. However, the routing of elongate flexible member 31 could be configured by the skilled person to change the anticlockwise / clockwise directions with respect to any of the loops. Furthermore, architectural structure guides 41 and 42 could be provided such that the elongate flexible member extends directly between the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and then extends around the architectural structure guides 41 and 42 in turn, and then extends to the architectural structure at which it is fixed.

[0080] Now, arrangements in which two elongate flexible members are provided will be described. As noted, the arrangements described above may comprise a first elongate flexible member (“elongate flexible member 31” in the above description) and a second elongate flexible member 32, to support each end of the second moveable rail 13.

[0081] When first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32 are provided, the second elongate flexible member 32 may be functionally equivalent to the first elongate flexible member 31. Thus, the second elongate flexible member 32 connects the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 such that movement of the second moveable rail 13 is actuated directly by movement of the first moveable rail 10. Further, the actuator system 3 is configured such that moving the first moveable rail 10 through the first distance relative to the architectural structure 200 drives both the first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32 to cause the second moveable rail 13 to move through the second distance relative to the architectural structure 200.

[0082] In arrangements having first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32, the first end 311 of the first elongate flexible member may be fixed relative to architectural structure 200 on one side of the architectural structure. The first end 321 of the second elongate flexible member 32 may be fixed relative to the architectural structure 200 on the opposite side 64 of the architectural structure (i.e. across the width of the architectural structure) to where the first end 311 is fixed.

[0083] In such arrangements, when the first moveable rail 10 is moved, the architectural structure 200 applies a reaction force to the first end 321 of the second elongate flexible member 32 to hold the second elongate flexible member 32 under tension. Thus, the attachment of first end 321 of second elongate flexible member 32 to the architectural structure 200 functions in the same way as the attachment of first end 311 of first elongate flexible member 31 to the architectural structure 200 to provide tension in the elongate flexible member 32, as described above. This description will therefore not be repeated here.

[0084] In arrangements having first and second elongate flexible members, the second elongate flexible member 32 may be arranged in a manner corresponding to the arrangement of the first elongate member 31. This means that the second elongate flexible member 32 is coupled to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and the architectural structure 200, in the same way that the first elongate flexible member 31 is coupled to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 and the architectural structure 200.

[0085] The first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32 may be arranged on opposite first and second sides 63, 64 of the architectural structure 200 in a direction of longitudinal extent of moveable rails 10, 13. A first path followed by the first elongate flexible member 31 and a second path followed by the second elongate flexible member 32 may be arranged symmetrically about the direction of movement of the moveable rails 10, 13. The first and second paths may be the same as each other. A symmetric arrangement of the first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32 may be desirable in order that the forces applied to each end of the second moveable rail 13 are equivalent, to provide smooth movement of the rail.

[0086] As shown in Figure 4, the first end 311 of the first elongate flexible member 31 is attached relative to the architectural structure on a first side 63 of the architectural structure in a third direction d3 parallel to the longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. The first end 321 of the second elongate flexible member 32 is fixed relative to the architectural structure 200 on a second side 64 of the architectural structure in a fourth direction d4 opposite to the third direction. As shown in Figure 4, the first elongate flexible member 31 may be coupled to an end of the second moveable rail 13 and an end of the first moveable rail 10 positioned towards the first side 63. Likewise, the second elongate flexible member 32 may be coupled to an end of the first moveable rail 10 and an end of the second moveable rail 13 positioned towards the second side 64. The first path followed by first elongate flexible member 31 and the second path followed by second elongate flexible member 32 may be configured such that the two paths do not cross one another. Furthermore, the first and second paths may be arranged symmetrically, as noted above.

[0087] As shown in Figure 4, the first moveable rail 10 comprises a second guide 12 configured to guide a portion of the second elongate flexible member 32 around a second loop L12. As shown, the first end 321 of the second elongate flexible member 32 is fixed to the architectural structure 200 at a location that is on the same side of first moveable rail 10 as the location of the second moveable rail 13. In other words, the second moveable rail 13 and first end 321 are both positioned lower than the first moveable rail 10. This arrangement means that moving the first moveable rail 10 in the first direction drives the second elongate flexible member 32 around the second loop L12 to cause the second moveable rail 13 to move in the first direction dl. Correspondingly, moving the first moveable rail 10 in the second direction d2 drives the second elongate flexible member 32 around the loop L12 in the opposite direction to cause the second moveable rail 13 to move in the second direction d2. Thus, the functional relationship between the second elongate flexible member 32 and the first and second moveable rails 10,13 is the same as the functional relationship between the first elongate flexible member 31 and the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. In this way, moving the first moveable rail 10 to drive the second elongate flexible member 32 around the second loop L12 causes the second moveable rail 13 to move in accordance with the moving pulley principle as described above with reference to the first elongate flexible member and Figure 4.

[0088] The second elongate flexible member 32 may be configured to extend around architectural structure guides, similarly to the first elongate flexible member 31. As shown in Figure 5, the architectural structure covering may comprise a third architectural structure guide 43 and a fourth architectural structure guide 44. In the arrangement shown in Figure 5, the first and second architectural structure guides 41, 42 are fixed relative to the architectural structure 200 on the first side 63 of the architectural structure in the third direction d3. The third and fourth architectural structure guides 43, 44 are fixed on the second side 64 of the architectural structure 200 in the fourth direction d4. The third architectural structure guide 43 is located at the first end 61 of the architectural structure and the fourth architectural structure guide 44 is located at the second end 62 of the architectural structure.

[0089] The third architectural structure guide 43 is configured to guide the second elongate flexible member 32 around a third fixed loop L43. The fourth architectural structure guide 44 is configured to guide the second elongate flexible member 32 around a fourth fixed loop L44. A portion of the second elongate flexible member 32 extends in the second direction from the third architectural structure guide 43 to the fourth architectural structure guide 44. The third and fourth architectural structure guides 43, 44 may be structurally and functionally the same as the first and second architectural structure guides 41, 42, as described above.

[0090] As shown in Figure 5, the second elongate flexible member 32 may be routed as follows. Starting from the first end 321 of the second elongate flexible member 32, the first end 321 is fixed to the architectural structure 200 at the first end 61 and second side 64 of the architectural structure 200. From here, the second elongate flexible member 32 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the position of the first moveable rail 10. Here, the second elongate flexible member 32 is guided around loop L12 such that the second elongate flexible member 32 turns back on itself and extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the position of the third architectural structure guide 43. The third architectural structure guide 43 guides the second elongate flexible member 32 around third fixed loop L43 so that the second elongate flexible member 32 turns back on itself. From here, the second elongate flexible member 32 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the fourth architectural structure guide 44. The fourth architectural structure guide 44 guides the second elongate flexible member 32 around the fourth fixed loop L44 so that the second elongate flexible member 32 turns back on itself. The second elongate flexible member 32 then extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the position of the second moveable rail 13. Here, the second end 322 of the second elongate flexible member 32 is coupled to the second moveable rail 13.

[0091] The manner in which the second elongate flexible member 32 is caused to move around loops LI 2, L43 and L44, is the same as the manner in which the first elongate flexible member 31 moves around loops LI 1, L41 and L42, and the description thereof is not repeated here. It will be noted that the arrangement of Figure 5 is the same as the arrangement of Figure 4 with the addition of the architectural structure guides 41, 42, 43, 44. Therefore, description pertaining to Figure 4 is equally applicable to the arrangement of Figure 5, and vice versa, except where the architectural structure guides are concerned. Now, arrangements in which the actuator system 3 comprises a single elongate flexible member 31 extending through the second moveable rail 13 will be described.

[0092] In any of the arrangements described above having first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32, instead of having two elongate flexible members each having an end coupled to the second moveable rail, a single elongate flexible member may be provided which extends through the second moveable rail, having two parts, equivalent to the separate elongate flexible members discussed above and joined to each other. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, by bringing points 312 and 322 together to connect both elongate flexible members within the second moveable rail 13, these arrangements may be adapted to an arrangement having a single elongate flexible member.

[0093] In arrangements in which the actuator system 3 comprises a single elongate flexible member 31, the first and second ends 311, 312 of the elongate flexible member may be fixed to the architectural structure 200. For example, the first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed to the architectural structure at the first end 61 and on the first side 63 of the architectural structure 100, as shown in Figure 6. The second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed to the architectural structure at the first end 61 and on the second side 64 of the architectural structure, as shown in Figure 6. The elongate flexible member 31 extends through the second moveable rail 31. In such arrangements, the architectural structure 200 applies a reaction force to each of the ends 311, 312 of the elongate flexible member 31, and the weight of the second moveable rail 14 acts on a middle portion of the elongate flexible member 31, such that the elongate flexible member 31 is held under tension.

[0094] The connection between the elongate flexible member 31 and the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 means that the force acting on the second moveable rail 13 changes in response to a change in the tension in the elongate flexible member 31. For example, when the first moveable rail 10 moves in the second direction d2 (upwards), the reaction force applied by the architectural structure 200 to the ends 311, 312 adjusts the tension in the elongate flexible member 31. This changes the net force acting on second moveable rail 13, so that second moveable rail 13 moves in the second direction d2.

[0095] When the first moveable rail is moved in the first direction dl (downwards), this adjusts the tension in the elongate flexible member 31 so that upwards tension force acting on the second moveable rail 13 decreases. This changes the net force acting on the second moveable rail 13, causing the second moveable rail 13 to move downwards due to the weight of the second moveable rail 13.

[0096] The second moveable rail 13 may be hollow and / or comprise a channel through which the elongate flexible member 31 may extend in the direction of longitudinal extent of the second moveable rail 13. In this way, the elongate flexible member 31 extends across the width of the covering from the first side 63 to the second side 64 of the architectural structure 200. The second moveable rail 13 may include members or structures (such as projections, grooves, walls, and the like) configured to guide the elongate flexible member 31 into an end of the second moveable rail 13 on the first side 63, and out of the other end of the second moveable rail 13 on the second side 64.

[0097] The elongate flexible member 31 may extend through the second moveable rail 13 in such a way that the position of the elongate flexible member 31 relative to the second moveable rail 13 is fixed in the direction of movement of the moveable rails (i.e. the first direction dl) but not in the direction of longitudinal extent of the moveable rails (i.e. third direction d3). The portion of the elongate flexible member 31 extending through the moveable rail 13 is required to move with the second moveable rail 13, so that movement of the second moveable rail 13 can be actuated in accordance with the tension in the elongate flexible member 31 . However, allowing the portion of elongate flexible member 31 extending through the second moveable rail 13 to move relative to the second moveable rail 13 in the direction of longitudinal extent of the second moveable rail 13, may provide a self-levelling effect. This is because slight variations in the path length taken by the elongate flexible member on the first side 63 relative to the second side 64 may be absorbed by allowing a slight movement of the elongate flexible member 31 within the second moveable rail 13.

[0098] The section of elongate flexible member 31 extending through the second moveable rail 13 may comprise a resilient element or member. For example, the resilient member may be a spring (for example, a coil spring) which extends in the direction of longitudinal extent of the second moveable rail 13. The resilient member may enable small variations in the length of the remainder of the elongate flexible member to occur over time (for example, lengthening caused by sun damage) by extending / retracting in accordance with the tension applied to the resilient member by the remainder of the elongate flexible member. Thus, a resilient member may maintain a constant overall path length between the first and second ends 311, 312 of the elongate flexible member 31, whilst allowing for some variation in the length of the remainder of the elongate flexible member over time. In such an arrangement, two separate elongate flexible members may be coupled to each end of the resilient member. However, functionally, the two elongate flexible members coupled to either end of a resilient member together function as a single elongate flexible member.

[0099] In arrangements in which a second end of an elongate flexible member is coupled to the second moveable rail (such as those described with reference to Figures 4 and 5), the second end of the elongate flexible member may be coupled to the second moveable rail 13 via a resilient element. For example, the second end of each elongate flexible member 31, 32 may be coupled to a respective resilient member (such as a coil spring) which is in turn coupled to an end of the second moveable rail 13. As shown in Figure 6, when a single elongate flexible member 31 extends through the second moveable rail 13, the entire path followed by the elongate flexible member 31 may be symmetrically arranged about the first direction dl . This is similar to the symmetric arrangements of first and second elongate flexible members described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0100] In arrangements wherein the actuator system 3 comprises a single elongate flexible member 31, the elongate flexible member 31 may be routed around a first loop LI 1 by a first guide 11, and around a second loop L 12 by a second guide 12, in the same manner as which a first elongate flexible member 31 may be routed around a first guide 11 and a second elongate flexible member 32 is routed around a second guide 12, as described above with reference to Figure 4 and 5. Functionally, such an arrangement works in the same way as the arrangements described with respect to Figures 4 and 5, and the description thereof is not repeated here.

[0101] In an arrangement functionally equivalent to the arrangement of Figure 4, but now having an elongate flexible member that extends through the second moveable rail 13, the first end 311 the elongate flexible member 31 may be fixed at the first end 61 and on the first side 63 of the architectural structure 200. From here, the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the position of the first moveable rail 10. Here, the elongate flexible member is routed around the first loop LI 1 by first guide 11 such that the elongate flexible member 31 turns back on itself. From here, the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the position of the second moveable rail 13. Here, the elongate flexible member 31 enters the second moveable rail 13 at an end of the second moveable rail 13 on the first side 63, then extends in the fourth direction to the other end of the second moveable rail 13. From here, the elongate flexible member 31 exits the second moveable rail 13 and extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the first moveable rail 10. Here, the elongate flexible member 31 is routed around loop L12 by second guide 12 such that the elongate flexible member 31 turns back on itself. Then the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the first end 61 of the architectural structure on the second side 64 of the architectural structure, where the second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 is fixed.

[0102] In arrangements in which the actuator system 3 comprises a single elongate flexible member 31 extending through the second moveable rail 13, architectural structure guides may be provided as already described with reference to Figure 5. Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 6. The arrangement of Figure 6 is identical to the arrangement of Figure 5, except that instead of having first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32, a single elongate flexible member 31 extends through the second moveable rail 13, but otherwise follows the same paths as the first and second elongate flexible members 31, 32 of Figure 5. Functionally, the arrangement of Figure 6 works in the same manner to move the second moveable rail 13 as the arrangement of Figure 5. Therefore, that description will not be repeated here. Furthermore, the architectural structure guides 41 to 44 are identical to those provided in the Figure 5 arrangement and description thereof is omitted here.

[0103] The path followed by the elongate flexible member 31 in the arrangement of Figure 6 is as follows. The first end 311 of the elongate flexible member 31 is fixed to the architectural structure 200 at the first end 61 and on the first side 63. From here, the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the position of the first moveable rail 10. Here, the elongate flexible member 31 is guided around loop LI 1 by first guide 11 so as to turn back on itself. Then the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to first architectural structure guide 41. The first architectural structure guide 41 guides the elongate flexible member 31 around loop L41 such that from here the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to second architectural structure guide 42. Second architectural structure guide 42 guides elongate flexible member 31 around second fixed loop L42. The elongate flexible member 31 then extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the position of the second moveable rail 13. The elongate flexible member 31 then extends through the second moveable rail 13 in the fourth direction d4 to the other end of the second moveable rail 13. From here, the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to fourth architectural structure guide 44. Here, the fourth architectural structure guide guides the elongate flexible member 31 around fourth fixed loop L44 such that the elongate flexible member 31 turns back on itself. Then the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the third architectural structure guide 43. The elongate flexible member 31 is guided around loop L43 and then extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the position of the first moveable rail 10. The elongate flexible member 31 is here guided around second loop L12 and then extends in the first direction dl (downwards) to the first end 61 of the architectural structure, on the second side 64 of the architectural structure. Here, the second end 312 of the elongate flexible member 31 is fixed to the architectural structure 200.

[0104] Next, a drive system 5 for moving the first moveable rail 10 will be described with reference to Figure 7. Because the movement of the second moveable rail 13 is directly actuated by movement of the first moveable rail 10, systems for moving the first and second moveable rails 10, 13, respectively, may be entirely independent. Therefore, in general, the first moveable rail 10 may be moved in any manner in conjunction with the systems for moving the second moveable rail 13 as described herein (for example with reference to Figures 1 to 6).

[0105] The architectural structure coverings 100 of the present disclosure may comprise a drive system 5 configured to move the first moveable rail 10. The drive system 5 may be combined with any of the arrangements of actuator system 3 described herein. Where such a drive system 5 is provided, the drive system may be coupled to the first moveable rail 10 but not otherwise coupled to the actuator system 3. In this way, a user may provide an input to the drive system 5 in order to drive movement of the first moveable rail 10, which in turn causes movement of the second moveable rail 13. In the arrangements described herein, moving the first moveable rail 10 is the only way to actuate the second moveable rail 13.

[0106] The drive system may comprise a drive shaft 51 and a driven elongate flexible member 53 coupled to the drive shaft 51 and the first moveable rail 10. The driven elongate flexible member 53 may be coupled to the drive shaft 51 by being wound round a drive spool 52 mounted on the drive shaft 51. As shown in Figure 7, two driven elongate flexible members 53 may be coupled to two drive spools 52 mounted on drive shaft 51, however this is not essential. Any number of drive spools may be provided, for example in accordance with the size of the architectural structure covering. A single drive spool may be sufficient.

[0107] Rotating the drive shaft 51 in a first rotational direction may cause the driven elongate flexible member to wind onto the drive spool 52 in order to move the first moveable rail 10 in the second direction d2 (upwards). Rotating the drive spool 51 in the opposite rotational direction causes the driven elongate flexible member 53 to unwind from around drive spool 52, thereby moving the first moveable rail 10 in the first direction dl (downwards). The drive shaft 51 may be provided at the second end 62 of the architectural structure 200. The drive shaft 51 may extend in the same direction as the direction of longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13. In other words, the drive shaft 51 may be parallel to the first and second moveable rails 10, 13.

[0108] The drive shaft 51 may be coupled to a motor for rotating the drive shaft to raise and lower the first moveable rail 10. Alternatively or additionally, the drive shaft 51 may be rotated using a wheel coupled to the end of the drive shaft 51, and rotatable using a beaded chain operable by a user. Other means for rotating the drive shaft 51 are known, and the manner in which the drive shaft is rotated is not particularly limited.

[0109] In any of the arrangements described herein, a headrail may be provided, for example as shown in Figure 8. A headrail may be a fixed rail positioned at the second end 62 (the upper end) of the architectural structure 200, and extending across the width of the architectural structure 200 (i.e. in the third direction d3). In arrangements comprising a headrail, the drive shaft 51 (and optionally one or more drive spools 52) may be located within the headrail.

[0110] A second covering material 22 may be provided so as to extend between the headrail 14 and the first moveable rail 10. By providing first and second covering materials 21, 22, instead of a single covering material that extends continuously from the headrail 14 to a lowermost rail, the overall height of the covering is not limited by the maximum drop length of a single covering material. In such arrangements, the actuator system 3 as described herein may be advantageous, because the driven elongate flexible member 53 is only required to extend to the first moveable rail 10 provided halfway down the effective length of the covering. In contrast, if the driven elongate flexible member 53 were coupled to the second moveable rail 13, the driven elongate flexible member 53 would be required to be twice as long, which would require a larger drive spool 52. This can be an issue with particularly long coverings.

[0111] When a second covering material 22 is provided between the first moveable rail 10 and a headrail 14, the second covering material 22 is configured to retract in response to movement of the first moveable rail 10 towards the headrail 14, and is configured to extend in response to movement of the first moveable rail 10 away from the headrail 14. Referring back to Figures 1 to 3, it will be appreciated that when the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 move in the first direction (downwards), each of the first covering material 21 and a second covering material 22 (provided between the first moveable rail 10 and the second end 62 of the architectural structure) extends by the same length, relative to its previous length. Similarly, when the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 move in the second direction d2 (upwards), each of the first covering material 21 and a second covering material 22 retract by the same length relative to their respective previous length.

[0112] In any of the arrangements described herein, the first and / or second covering material 21, 22 may comprise a plurality of openings aligned in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13 (i.e. the first direction dl). A portion of the first and / or second elongate flexible member 31, 32 may be configured to extend through said openings in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails 10, 13.

[0113] An example of an arrangement in which the elongated flexible member 31 extends through openings in the first and second covering materials 21, 22 is illustrated in Figure 8. The arrangement shown in Figure 8 is identical to the arrangement shown in Figure 6, except for the presence of a headrail 14 and that the elongate flexible member 31 is configured to extend through openings in the first and second covering materials 21, 22 on each side of the covering in the third and fourth directions d3 and d4, respectively. Only the differences between the arrangement of Figure 8 and the arrangement of Figure 6 will now be described.

[0114] In the arrangement of Figure 8, the second and fourth architectural structure guides 42, 44 are integrated in the headrail 14. The second and fourth architectural structure guides 42, 44 may comprise structural features of the headrail (such one or more members, projections, walls, grooves, pulleys, pins, etc) that function to guide the elongate flexible member 13 around respective fixed loops L42, L44. Functionally, the second and fourth architectural structure guides 42, 44 are equivalent those already herein described. Alternatively, the architectural structure guides 42, 44 may be provided as separate elements that are not part of a headrail. The part of the path of the elongate flexible member 31 in the arrangement of Figure 8, that differs from Figure 6, is as follows. After extending round the first fixed loop L41, the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the second direction d2 (upwards) to the second fixed loop L42. The second fixed loop L42 is configured such that the elongate flexible member 31 extends alongside the covering material 21, 22 (i.e. outside of the covering material) and then is directed in the fourth direction d4, i.e. inside the headrail 14. From here the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards). Where a second covering material 22 is provided, the elongate flexible member 31 extends through a series of openings in the second covering material 22. Then the elongate flexible member 31 extends through a series of openings in the first covering material 21.

[0115] Here, the elongate flexible member 31 may be coupled to the second moveable rail 13, as described above with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 8, the elongate flexible member 31 may enter and extend through the second moveable rail 13 as already described with respect to Figure 6. Then, the elongate flexible member 31 exits the second moveable rail 13 so as to extend in the second direction d2 (upwards) through a second series of openings provided in the first covering material 21 (and optionally second covering material 22). Then, the elongate flexible member 31 extends to the fourth architectural structure guide to be routed around the fourth fixed loop L44. Then the elongate flexible member 31 extends in the first direction dl (downwards) alongside the covering material towards the third fixed loop L43 as already described with reference to Figure 6.

[0116] In the example of Figure 8, the actuator system 3 comprises a single elongate flexible member 31. However, the skilled person will appreciate that the elongate flexible member 31 shown in Figure 8 could be divided into two separate first and second elongate flexible members, each having their second end fixed to the second moveable rail 13 (for example as described with reference to Figure 5).

[0117] By providing a plurality of openings in the covering material (such as a pleated, cellular, or honeycomb material) through which the elongate flexible member(s) may extend, the covering material may be held in a plane defined by the routing of the elongate flexible member(s). This may serve to stabilise the covering material(s), which may be particularly useful with large coverings.

[0118] The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in this application and no limitation as to the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by either the inclusion or noninclusion of elements, components, or the like in the summary. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omited. It should be understood that the claimed subject mater is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments or arrangements illustrated herein.

[0119] The accompanying drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary. The detailed description will be beter understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, with reference made in detail to embodiments of the present subject mater, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present subject mater, not limitation of the present subject mater. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present subject mater. Thus, it is intended that the present subject mater covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0120] In the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that the phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and / or”, as used herein, are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

Claims

Claims1. An architectural structure covering configured to be mounted to an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a first moveable rail; a second moveable rail; a covering material extending between the first and second moveable rails, the covering material configured to retract and extend in response to relative movement of the first and second moveable rails towards each other and away from each other, respectively; and an actuator system configured to move the second moveable rail; wherein the actuator system comprises an elongate flexible member connecting the first and second moveable rails such that movement of the second moveable rail is actuated directly by movement of the first moveable rail, and the actuator system is configured such that moving the first moveable rail through a first distance relative to the architectural structure drives the elongate flexible member to cause the second moveable rail to move through a second distance relative to the architectural structure, the second distance being twice the first distance.

2. The architectural structure covering of claim 1, wherein a first end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed relative to the architectural structure such that the architectural structure applies a reaction force to the first end of the elongate flexible member to hold the elongate flexible member under tension.

3. The architectural structure covering of claim 2, wherein the first and second moveable rails are both configured to move in opposite first and second directions; a second end of the elongate flexible member is coupled to the second moveable rail; and the first moveable rail comprises a guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a loop; wherein the first end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at a location that is on the same side, in the first direction, of the first moveable rail as the location of the second moveable rail, such that moving the first moveable rail in the first direction drives the elongate flexible member around the loop to cause the second moveable rail to move in the first direction, and moving the first moveable rail in the seconddirection drives the elongate flexible member around the loop to cause the second moveable rail to move in the second direction.

4. The architectural structure covering of claim 3, further comprising: first and second architectural structure guides configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at first and second ends of the architectural structure, set apart from each other in the first direction; and the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around first and second fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the first architectural structure guide to the second architectural structure guide.

5. The architectural structure covering of claim 4, wherein, starting from the first end of the elongate flexible member, the elongate flexible member extends around the loop provided on the first moveable rail, then extends around the first and second fixed loops in turn, and then extends to the second end of the elongate flexible member that is coupled to the second moveable rail.

6. The architectural structure covering of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the second end of the elongate flexible member is coupled to the second moveable rail by a resilient element.

7. The architectural structure covering of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the actuator system further comprises a second elongate flexible member connecting the first and second moveable rails such that moving the first moveable rail drives the second elongate flexible member to cause the second moveable rail to move, and respective first ends of the first and second elongate flexible members are fixed relative to the architectural structure, on opposite sides of the covering in a direction parallel to a longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails.

8. The architectural structure covering of claim 7, wherein the second elongate flexible member is arranged in a manner corresponding to the arrangement of the first elongate flexible member.

9. The architectural structure covering of claim 2, wherein the second end of the elongate flexible member is configured to be fixed to the architectural structure;the elongate flexible member extends through the second moveable rail; and the architectural structure applies a reaction force to the first and second ends of the elongate flexible member to hold the elongate flexible member under tension.

10. The architectural structure covering of claim 9, wherein the first and second moveable rails are both configured to move in opposite first and second directions, the first moveable rail comprises a first guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a first loop, and a second guide configured to guide a portion of the elongate flexible member around a second loop; wherein the first and second ends of the elongate flexible member are configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at respective locations that are on the same side, in the first direction, of the first moveable rail as the location of the second moveable rail, such that moving the first moveable rail in the first direction drives the elongate flexible member around the first and second loops to cause the second moveable rail to move in the first direction, and moving the first moveable rail in the second direction drives the elongate flexible member around the first and second loops to cause the second moveable rail to move in the second direction.

11. The architectural structure covering of claim 10, further comprising: first and second architectural structure guides configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at first and second ends of the architectural structure, set apart from each other in the first direction; third and fourth architectural structure guides configured to be fixed to the architectural structure at the first and second ends of the architectural structure; wherein the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to be positioned on a first side of the architectural structure; the third and fourth architectural structure guides are configured to be positioned on a second side of the architectural structure, with the first and second architectural structure guides separated from the third and fourth architectural structure guides, respectively, in a direction parallel to a longitudinal extent of the first and second moveable rails; the first and second architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around first and second fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the first architectural structure guide to the second architectural structure guide; andthe third and fourth architectural structure guides are configured to guide the elongate flexible member around third and fourth fixed loops, respectively, such that a portion of the elongate flexible member extends in the second direction from the third architectural structure guide to the fourth architectural structure guide.

12. The architectural structure covering of claim 11, wherein starting from the first end of the elongate flexible member, the elongate flexible member extends around the first loop provided on the first moveable rail, then extends around the first and second fixed loops in turn, then extends through the second moveable rail, then extends around the fourth and third fixed loops in turn, and then extends to the second end of the elongate flexible member.

13. The architectural structure covering of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein a middle portion of the elongate flexible member comprises a resilient element.

14. The architectural structure covering of any preceding claim, further comprising a drive system configured to move the first moveable rail, wherein the drive system is coupled to the first moveable rail but is not otherwise coupled to the actuator system.

15. The architectural structure covering of claim 14, wherein the drive system comprises a drive shaft, at least one drive spool mounted on the drive shaft, and a driven elongate flexible member coupled to the drive spool and the first moveable rail, and the drive system is configured such that rotation of the drive shaft causes the driven elongate flexible member to wind onto the drive spool, or unwind from the drive spool, to move the first moveable rail.

16. The architectural structure covering of any preceding claim, further comprising: a headrail; and a second covering material extending between the headrail and the first moveable rail, the second covering material configured to retract and extend in response to movement of the first moveable rail towards the headrail and away from the headrail, respectively.

17. The architectural structure covering of claim 16, when dependent on claim 15, wherein the drive shaft and at least one drive spool are contained within the headrail.

18. The architectural structure covering of any preceding claim, wherein the covering material is a pleated or cellular blind material.

19. The architectural structure covering of claim 18, wherein the covering material comprises a plurality of openings aligned in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails, and a portion of the elongate flexible member is configured to extend in a direction of movement of the first and second moveable rails through the openings in the covering material.

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