Cellular vanes and related hardware for a covering for an architectural structure and associated coverings

Abstract

In one aspect, a cellular vane for a covering for an architectural structure includes a vane body defining a cellular structure. The vane body includes one or more fold edges such that the vane body includes first and second base wall segments and first and second joint wall segments. The cellular structure has a first curved profile defined by the first base wall segment that extends along a first side of the cellular structure and a second curved profile defined by the second base wall segment that extends along a second side of the cellular structure. Additionally, the first and second joint wall segments are coupled to each other and extend into an interior of the cellular structure.

Description

CELLULAR VANES AND RELATED HARDWARE FOR A COVERING FOR AN ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURE AND ASSOCIATED COVERINGSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is based upon and claims the right of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 662,718, fded June 21, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] The present subject matter relates generally to coverings for architectural structures and, more particularly, to cellular vanes and related hardware configured for use with coverings for architectural structures.BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known within the industry to utilize cellular slats or vanes as covering elements within a covering for an architectural structure. As an example, it is known to laminate a film material to a fabric material and subsequently form such laminated fabric / film assembly into a closed-perimeter cell such that the fabric material is positioned along the exterior of the cell and the film material is positioned along the interior of the cell. With such configurations, the fully laminated fabric / film assembly is often folded or creased to form the opposed edges of the slat, with the free ends of the laminated fabric / film assembly being joined together at a location along the inner perimeter of the cell. However, slats / vanes formed from such laminated fabric / film assemblies typically experience significant deformation, warping, and / or other thermal or stress-related issues when exposed to the high-end of the temperature range generally found in window environments. Such slats / vanes also experience light transmission issues (e.g., shadows) at the location of the joint formed between the free ends. Moreover, as it relates to the use of cellular vanes in connection with vertical blinds, existing hardware (including mounting systems) is typically insufficient for accommodating the cellular structure of the vanes and / or ensuring desire performing of the covering during use.

[0004] Accordingly, an improved cellar vane configuration and related hardware configured for use with coverings that address one or more of the issues associated with known vanes / hardware would be welcomed in the technology.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the present subject matter will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the present subject matter.

[0006] In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a cellular vane for a covering for an architectural structure. The cellular vane includes a vane body defining a cellular structure. The vane body includes first and second ends and further includes a first fold edge and first and second joint fold edges formed between the first and second ends such that the vane body includes a plurality of wall segments. The plurality7of wall segments include a first base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the first joint fold edge, a second base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the second joint fold edge, a first joint wall segment extending between the first joint fold edge and the first end of the vane body, and a second joint wall segment extending between the second joint fold edge and the second end of the vane body. The cellular structure has a first curved profile defined by the first base wall segment that extends along a first side of the cellular structure and a second curved profile defined by the second base wall segment that extends along a second side of the cellular structure. Additionally, the first and second joint wall segments are coupled to each other and extend into an interior of the cellular structure.

[0007] In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure that includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane of the plurality7of cellular vane generally being configured in accordance with the cellular vane described above.

[0008] In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a cellular vane for a covering for an architectural structure. The cellular vane includes a vane body defining a cellular structure. The vane body includes first and second ends and further includes a first fold edge and first and second joint fold edges formed between the first and second ends such that the vane body includes a plurality of wall segments. The plurality of wall segments include a first base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the first joint fold edge, a second base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the second joint fold edge, a first joint wall segment extending between the first joint fold edge and the first end of the vane body, and a second joint wall segment extending between the second joint fold edge and the second end of the vane body. The cellular structure has a first curved profile defined by the first base wall segment that extends along a first side ofthe cellular structure and a second curved profile defined by the second base wall segment that extends along a second side of the cellular structure. The first and second joint wall segments are coupled to each other to form a flange joint extending into an interior of the cellular structure, and the flange joint is spaced apart from the first and second sides of the cellular structure such that gaps are defined between the flange joint and each of the first and second base wall segments.

[0009] In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure that includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vane generally being configured in accordance with the cellular vane described above.

[0010] In a further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure. The covering includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure. The cellular structure includes first and second sides extending between opposed first and second edges of the cellular structure. The covering also includes a mounting system configured to support the plurality of cellular vanes relative to the architectural structure. The mounting system includes a rail, a plurality of carrier assemblies supported by the rail, and a plurality7of vane hangers. Each vane hanger is coupled between a respective carrier assembly of the plurality of carrier assemblies and a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes. Additionally, each vane hanger includes a hanger body and first and second connector wings extending along opposed sides of the hanger body. Each vane hanger further includes first and second vane posts extending inwardly from the first and second connector wings, respectively, towards the hanger body. When each vane hanger is assembled relative to the respective cellular vane, the first and second connector wings are positioned exterior to the respective cellular vane and extend along the first and second sides of the cellular structure, respectively, and the hanger body is at least partially received within an interior of the respective cellular vane. Moreover, when each vane hanger is assembled relative to the respective cellular vane, each of the first and second vane posts is received within a respective mounting opening defined through a portion of the respective cellular vane.

[0011] In an even further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure. The covering includes a plurality' of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure. The cellular structure includes first and second sides extending betweenopposed first and second edges of the cellular structure. The covering also includes a mounting system configured to support the plurality of cellular vanes relative to the architectural structure. The mounting system includes a rail, a plurality of carrier assemblies supported by the rail, a plurality of vane hangers, and a plurality of connector inserts, with each connector insert of the plurality of inserts being positioned within an interior of the cellular structure of a respective vane of the plurality of cellular vanes at or adjacent to the top end of said respective vane. Each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers is coupled between a respective carrier assembly of the plurality’ of carrier assemblies and a respective connector insert of the plurality of connector inserts. Additionally, each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers is configured to engage portions of the respective connector insert to vertically support the respective connector insert relative to the respective carrier assembly.

[0012] In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure. The covering includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure. The covering also includes a vane connection system coupling the plurality’ of cellular vanes together. The vane connection system includes a plurality of connector clips, with each connector clip being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes at or adjacent to the bottom ends of the respective cellular vane. The vane connection system also includes a cord assembly comprising a base cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality of cellular vanes and a plurality of cord loops extending from the base cord, with each cord loop of the cord assembly being coupled to a respective connector clip of the plurality' of connector clips.

[0013] In a further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure. The covering includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure. The covering also includes a vane connection system coupling the plurality of cellular vanes together. The vane connection system includes a plurality of connector clips, with each connector clip being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality’ of cellular vanes. The vane connection system also includes a connection cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality of cellular vanes, wherein the plurality of connector clips are coupled to the connection cord at spaced apart locations along a length of the connection cord.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering for an architectural structure. The covering includes a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure. The covering also includes a vane connection system coupling the plurality of cellular vanes together. The vane connection system includes a connection cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality of cellular vanes and a plurality of loops coupled to the connection cord, with each loop of the plurality of loops being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes. The respective cellular vane defines a mounting slot along one of a first edge or a second edge of the cellular structure and a pair of aligned openings connected with the mounting slot. Additionally, each loop of the plurality of loops is configured to be inserted through the mounting slot and received within the pair of aligned openings to couple the connection cord to the respective cellular vane.

[0015] In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a covering configured in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0016] In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a cellular vane configured in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0017] In a further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a mounting system configured in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0018] In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a vane hanger in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0019] In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a carrier assembly in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0020] In a further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a tilt post in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0021] In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a vane connection system configured in accordance with one or more of the embodiments described herein.

[0022] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will become better understood with reference to the following Detailed Description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present subj ect matter and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present subject matter.

[0023] This Brief Description is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Brief Description is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] A full and enabling disclosure of the present subject matter, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a covering for an architectural structure in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cellular vane shown in FIG. 2 taken about line 3-3;

[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of the vane body of the cellular vane shown in FIG. 3 in a disassembled or non-formed state in accordance w ith aspects of the present subject matter;

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a heat treatment apparatus or assembly that can be used to heat-set or heat-stabilize the fold edges of a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates another cross-sectional view' of another embodiment of a cellular vane slat in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view' of one embodiment of a vane hanger in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view' of the vane hanger show n in FIG. 7 ;

[0033] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 7 and8 exploded aw'ay from the top end of a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective, assembled view' of the vane hanger and cellular vane shown in FIG. 9 and also illustrates a dashed view of the vane hanger to demonstrate an exemplary assembly method for the vane / hanger;

[0035] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the vane hanger shown in FIGS.7 and 8 as assembled relative to a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0036] FIG. 12 illustrates another cross-sectional view of the hanger / vane show n in FIG. 11, particularly illustrating an exemplary disassembly method for the vane / hanger;

[0037] FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of a tilt post in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0038] FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the tilt post shown in FIG. 13;

[0039] FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of the tilt post shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 as assembled relative to the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 7 and 81

[0040] FIG. 16 illustrates a rear perspective view of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes of the covering shown in FIG. 1 , particularly illustrating one embodiment of a vane connection system assembled relative to the vanes in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0041] FIG. 17 illustrates a similar rear perspective view as that shown in FIG. 16 with a cord assembly of the vane connection system exploded away from the vanes;

[0042] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view7of one embodiment of a connection clip in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0043] FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the connection clip shown in FIG. 18 as installed relative to a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0044] FIG. 20 illustrates a rear perspective view of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes of the covering shown in FIG. 1 , particularly illustrating another embodiment of a vane connection system assembled relative to the vanes in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0045] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a connection clip and an associated clip cover in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter; and

[0046] FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of the connection clip shown in FIG. 21 as installed relative to a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0047] FIG. 23 illustrates a rear perspective view of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes of the covering shown in FIG. 1 , particularly illustrating a further embodiment of a vane connection system assembled relative to the vanes in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0048] FIG. 24 illustrates a similar rear perspective view as that shown in FIG. 23 with components of the vane connection system exploded away from the vanes;

[0049] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a connector clip of the vane connection system shown in FIGS. 23 and 24;

[0050] FIG. 26 illustrates a rear perspective view of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes of the covering shown in FIG. 1. particularly illustrating yet another embodiment of a vane connection system assembled relative to the vanes in accordance with aspects of the present subj ect matter;

[0051] FIG. 27 illustrates a similar rear perspective view as that shown in FIG. 23 with components of the vane connection system exploded away from the vanes;

[0052] FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a vane hanger in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0053] FIG. 29 illustrates a side view of the vane hanger show n in FIG. 28;

[0054] FIG. 30 illustrates a top view of the vane hanger shown in FIG. 28;

[0055] FIG. 31 illustrates a side view of the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 28-30 as assembled relative to one embodiment of atilt post in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0056] FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view7of one embodiment of a connector insert configured for use with the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 28-31 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0057] FIG. 33 illustrates a top view of the connector insert shown in FIG. 32;

[0058] FIG. 34 illustrates a perspective view of the connector insert shown in FIGS.32 and 33 exploded away from the top end of a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0059] FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective, assembled view of the connector insert and the cellular vane shown in FIG. 34 and further illustrates the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 28-30 exploded aw ay from the top end of a cellular vane in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

[0060] FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective, assembled view of the connector insert, vane hanger, and cellular vane shown in FIG. 35;

[0061] FIG. 37 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled components shown in FIG. 36 taken about line 37-37;

[0062] FIG. 38 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a connector insert configured for use with the vane hanger shown in FIGS. 28-31 in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter; and

[0063] FIG. 39 illustrates a top view of the connector insert shown in FIG. 38, with an outer perimeter of a cellular vane shown in the dashed lines relative to the insert in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] In general, the present subject matter is directed to a cellular vane configured for use as part of a covering for an architectural feature or structure (referred to herein simply as an architectural ‘"structure” for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit). As will be described below, the cellular vane may include a vane body formed from a thin- walled material (e.g., a film material) that has been folded in a manner that allows the body to be formed into a closed-perimeter or substantially closed-perimeter cell. The cellular structure generally defines curved outer profiles extending between opposed edges, with one of the edges being formed by a fold edge of the vane body and the other edge being formed by a pair of fold edges of the vane body that create flanges or “joint flanges” extending inwardly into an interior of the cellular structure. The joint flanges may be coupled together to form an overlapped flange joint (e.g., similar to a French seam) that is spaced apart from the inner perimeter of the cellular structure, thereby creating gaps betw een the cellular structure and the joint to allow for the diffusion of light, thereby preventing or minimizing the formation of a shadow at the joint location.

[0065] The present subject matter is also directed to a mounting system for supporting or mounting cellular vanes relative to an architectural structure. As will be described below, the mounting system may include a rail and a plurality of carrier assemblies supported by the rail. In addition, the mounting system may include a plurality of vane hangers, with each vane hanger being coupled (directly or indirectly) betw een a respective carrier assembly of the mounting system and a respective cellular vane of the covering. In several embodiments, the configuration of the mounting system may minimize or eliminate any light gaps between the rail and the cellular vanes, thereby enhancing the light-blocking function of the covering and improving its overall aesthetic appearance. Additionally, in one embodiment, each vane hanger may be configured to be coupled directly to its respective cellular vane, such as by configuring the hanger / vane to include features for directly coupling such components together. In another embodiment, each vanehanger may be configured to be coupled indirectly to its respective cellular vane via a separate component, such as by including a separate insert positioned within the respective vane to which the hanger is configured to be coupled.

[0066] Moreover, the present subject matter is also directed to a vane connection system for coupling suspended cellular vanes together at or adjacent to their bottom ends. For instance, as will be described below, the vane connection system may include a cord assembly and / or connector clips configured to couple adjacent vanes together such that relative movement between the vanes is reduced or dampened during operation of the covering or when one or more of the vanes is contacted by an external force.

[0067] It should be understood that, as described herein, an "embodiment" (such as illustrated in the accompanying Figures) may refer to an illustrative representation of an environment or article or component in which a disclosed concept or feature may be provided or embodied, or to the representation of a manner in which just the concept or feature may be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments are to be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other manners of embodying the described concepts or features, such as may be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon learning the concepts or features from the present disclosure, are within the scope of the disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that while the Figures may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concepts or features, such concepts or features are to be understood (unless otherwise specified) as independent of and separate from one another and are shown together for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit to being present or used together. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately, or with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of one embodiment of a covering 100 for an architectural structure is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In general, the covering 100 includes a plurality of parallel, vertically oriented cellular vanes 200 and an associated mounting system 300 for supporting the cellular vanes 200 relative to an architectural structure. In several embodiments, the covering 100 is configured to be installed relative to a window, door, or other architectural structure as may be desired. However, it should also be understood that the covering 100 isnot limited in its particular use as a covering for a window or door, and may be used in any application as a partition, shade, and / or the like, relative to and / or within any type of architectural structure.

[0069] In several embodiments, the covering 100 may be configured as a vertical blind. As such, the covering 100 may generally be configured to function the same as or similar to typical vertical blinds. For instance, when suspended by the mounting system 300 relative to an architectural structure, the plurality of cellular vanes 200 may be moveable horizontally or laterally (e.g., in lateral direction L) between an extended position (as shown in FIG. 1) and a retracted position (not shown). When extended, the cellular vanes 200 may be configured to extend laterally across and at least partially cover the adjacent architectural structure. When retracted, the cellular vanes 200 may be configured to be grouped or positioned along one side of the adjacent architectural structure, thereby exposing at least a portion of the architectural structure.

[0070] Additionally, the cellular vanes 200 may be rotatable or tiltable about their longitudinal axes to allow the vanes 200 to be tilted between an open position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) for permitting light to pass between adjacent pairs of vanes 200 and a closed position (not shown), wherein the vanes 200 are oriented in an overlapping manner to occlude or block the passage of light through the covering 100. For instance, each vane 200 may be rotatable or tillable about a tilt axis 201 (only two of which are shown in FIG. 1) extending in a vertical direction of the covering (e.g., as indicated by arrow V) between a top end 202 and a bottom end 204 of the vane 200. As shown in FIG. 1 , the covering 100 may include atilt wand 102 (or any other suitable control device) configured to be manipulated (e.g., rotated) to facilitate tilting or rotating of the cellular vanes 200 between their opened and closed positions.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 1, the mounting system 300 generally includes a rail 302 configured to be installed relative to the adjacent architectural structure, such as at a location at or adjacent to the top of the architectural structure. In general, the rail 302 is configured as an elongated support member extending longitudinally in the lateral direction L of the covering 100 between a first rail end 304 and a second rail end 306. Although not shown, endcaps may be installed at the opposed ends 304, 306 of the rail 302. In addition, the mounting system 300 may include a plurality' of carrier assemblies 310 and related hardware for supporting the cellular vanes 200 relative to the rail 302 in a manner that allow s the vanes 200 to be moved between the extended and retracted positions, as well as to be tilted about their respective tilt axes 201. For example, each carrier assembly 310 may include acarrier 312 (indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 1) slidably or movably positioned within the interior of the rail 302 (e.g.. within a track defined along the hollow interior of the rail 302) to allow the carrier 312 to slide or otherwise move relative to the rail 302 in the lateral direction L between the rail’s first and second ends 304, 306. In such an embodiment, by coupling each cellular vane 200 to a respective carrier 312, the vanes 200 may be slid or otherwise moved relative to the rail 302 between the retracted and extended positions. For instance, to move the vanes 200 from the fully extended position (e.g.. as shown in FIG. 1) to the retracted position, the various carriers 312 may be slid or moved laterally across the rail 302 such that the carriers 312 are laterally stacked or arranged in a side-by-side arrangement at one of the rail’s ends 304. 306. As shown in FIG. 1, the carriers 312 may, in one embodiment, be supported within the rail 302 relative to a corresponding track slot 314 defined through the bottom side of the rail 302, thereby allowing associated mounting hardware to extend through the downward-facing slot 314 and be coupled between each carrier 312 and its respective cellular vane 200. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIGS. 13-15, each carrier assembly 310 may also include a tilt post 320 (not shown in FIG. 1), with each tilt post 320 extending through the track slot 314 and coupling a given carrier 312 to its respective cellular vane 200 via a corresponding vane hanger 350 provided at the top end 202 of the vane 200. In such an embodiment, each tilt post 320 may be rotatably supported by its respective carrier 312 to allow the tilt post 320 to be rotationally driven, thereby allowing the vane 200 to be tilted about its tilt axis 201 with corresponding rotation of the tilt post 320.

[0072] An example embodiment of a suitable carrier assembly that may be incorporated into the mounting system 300 for allowing the cellular vanes 200 to be supported relative to the rail 302 for both lateral translation and rotational tilting is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,321,821 (currently assigned to VKR Holding A / S and referred to herein as the ‘821 patent), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety7for all purposes. In such an embodiment, the above-described tilt wand 102 may be couped to the pivot shaft described in the ‘821 patent to allow for tilting of the cellular vanes 200 via the geared arrangement of the carrier assembly of the ‘821 patent (e.g., by rotationally driving a worm gear via the pivot shaft, with rotation of the worm gear being used to rotationally drive the pivot pin or tilt post via a corresponding toothed wheel). However, in other embodiments, the carrier assemblies 310 may have any other suitable configuration that permits such assemblies to generally function as described herein.

[0073] Additionally, in several embodiments, the covering 100 may include a vane connection system 500 configured to couple the vanes 200 together at or adjacent to their bottom ends 204. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIGS. 16-19, the vane connection system 500 may include a plurality of vane connection clips 510 (indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 1), with each connection clip 510 being coupled to a respective cellular vane 200 at or adjacent to the bottom end 204 of the vane 200. As an example, as shown in FIG. 1. each connection clip 510 may be coupled to its respective vane 200 along the back side of the covering 100 (e.g., the side of the covering 100 facing away from the interior of the room and towards the adjacent architectural structure) at a location at or adjacent to the bottom end 204 of the vane 200. The vane connection system 500 also includes a cord assembly 540 (e.g., a flexible cord assembly) coupled to each connection clip 510 such that the cord assembly 540 extends between each adjacent pair of cellular vanes 200, thereby coupling the vanes 200 together via the clip / cord combination. This cord-based connection between the vanes 200 may function to dampen or reduce relative movement between the vanes 200 as they are being moved laterally between the extended / retracted positions and / or in instances in which one or more of the vanes 200 are contacted in a manner that would cause the vane 200 to swing in the lateral direction L or in a direction in-and-out relative to the room. In this regard, the vane connection system 500 may generally function to limit or dampen any swinging motion of the bottom ends 204 of the vanes 200.

[0074] It should be appreciated that the configuration of the covering 100 described above and shown in FIG. 1 is provided only to place the present subject matter in an exemplary field of use. Thus, it should be apparent that the present subject matter may be readily adaptable to any suitable manner of covering configuration. For example, in other embodiments, the cellular vanes 200 described herein may be configured for use within a horizontal or venetian-type blind or covering in which the vanes 200 are horizontally oriented (as opposed to the vertical vane orientation shown in FIG. 1). In such embodiments, the cellular vanes 200 may, for instance, be suspended between a headrail and a corresponding bottom rail (e.g.. via cord ladder assemblies) to allow the vanes 200 to be supported relative to an adjacent architectural structure.

[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 2-4, different views of one embodiment of a cellular vane 200 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the cellular vane 200 and FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the vane 200 shown in FIG. 2 taken about line 3-3.Additionally, FIG. 4 illustrates an end view of the cellular vane 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 in a disassembled or non-formed state. It should be appreciated that, for purposes of description, the cellular vane 200 shown in FIGS. 2-4 will generally be described with reference to the covering 100 of FIG. 1. However, in general, the cellular vane 200 disclosed herein may be configured for use with coverings have any other suitable configuration, including any suitable horizontal and / or vertical coverings that incorporate or utilize vanes or slats as covering elements.

[0076] As particularly shown in FIG. 2, the cellular vane 200 generally extends in a vertical direction (as indicated by arrows V in FIG. 2) betw een a top end 202 and a bottom end 204 of the vane 200 and in a width wise direction (as indicated by arrow W in FIGS. 2 and 3) between a front or first edge 206 and a rear or second edge 208 of the vane 200. In addition, the cellular vane 200 extends in a depthwise direction (as indicated by arrows D in FIGS. 2 and 3) between a first side 210 and a second side 212 of the vane 200, with the opposed sides 210, 212 extending in the widthwise direction W betw een the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200. As will be described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 9-12, 16-20. 22. 23. 25 and 36, the cellular vane 200 may, in one embodiment, be configured to include one or more features for accommodating the hardware associated with the mounting system 300 and / or the vane connection system 500 of the disclosed covering 100. For instance, as shown in FIG. 2, the cellular vane 200 may define a pair of aligned mounting openings 214 adjacent to its top end 202. as well as a pair of mounting slots 216 at its top end 202, for receiving corresponding features of the respective vane hanger 350 of the mounting system 300 (e.g., as will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9-12).Specifically, the aligned openings 214 are defined through the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 adjacent to the top end 202 thereof at a generally centralized location between the vane’s opposed edges 206, 208 in the widthwise direction W of the vane 200, while the mounting slots 216 are defined through the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 at top end 202 thereof and are generally aligned with the mounting openings 214 in the width wise direction W of the vane 200. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 2, the cellular vane 200 may define a connection opening or slot 222 adjacent to its bottom end 204 for receiving a portion of the respective vane connection clips 510 of the vane connection system 500 (e.g., as will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 -20). Specifically, the connection slot 222 is defined at the rear or second edge 208 of the vane 200 at a location adjacent to the bottom end 204 thereof. However, in other embodiments, depending on the configuration of the hardware associated with the mounting system 300 and / or the vane connection system500, the cellular vane 200 may include one or more different features (or need not include any additional features) to accommodate such hardware.

[0077] In general, the cellular vane 200 is formed by a vane body 230 that extends longitudinally or vertically along the entire length of the vane 200 (i.e., from the top end 202 to the bottom end 204 of the vane 200) and that generally defines a cellular structure 232 of the vane 200. For instance, the vane body 230 generally forms a closed-perimeter cell that defines the opposed sides 210, 212 and edges 206, 208 of the vane 200. As particularly shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the vane body 230 may generally correspond to a folded strip of material that is configured to be assembled in a manner to form the cellular structure 232 of the vane 200. For example, as will be described below, the vane body 230 may be folded or creased at a first edge location to provide a fold edge that forms the front or first edge 206 of the vane 200. Additionally, as will be described below, the vane body 230 may be folded at first and second joint locations to create inner flanges or joint flanges 238 that can be coupled together (e.g., in a manner similar to a French seam) to form the rear or second edge 208 of the vane 200.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 3. the cellular structure 232 formed by the vane body 230 defines a closed-perimeter or substantially closed-perimeter cell having a first curved profile along the first side 210 of the vane 200 and a second curved profile along the second side 212 of the vane 200, with the curved profiles generally extending in the widthwise direction W between the opposed edges 206. 208 of the vane. The curved profiles are generally arced or curved outwardly such that the outer perimeter of the vane 200 is characterized by opposed concave surfaces extending between the first and second edges 206, 208, thereby providing the cellular structure 232 with a shape that is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical about a widthwise centerline 234 of the vane 200. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3, due to the configuration of the vane body 230, the shape of the vane 200 is also symmetrical or substantially symmetrical about a depthwise centerline 236 of the vane 200.

[0079] Referring briefly to FIG. 4, the general structure and configuration of the embodiment of the vane body 230 of the cellular vane 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 will now be described. It should be appreciated that the vane body 230 is shown in FIG. 4 in its disassembled or non-formed state. As will be described below, when the joint flanges 238 of the vane body 230 are coupled together (e.g., via an adhesive), the vane body 230 may generally form the cellular structure 232 shown in FIG. 3.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 4. in several embodiments, the vane body 230 is formed from a flat strip of material that has been folded or creased at a first edge location to form afirst fold edge 240 disposed centrally between opposed ends of the body 230 (e.g., first and second ends 242, 244 of the body 230). Such fold edge 240 is generally configured to form the front or first edge 206 (FIG. 3) of the cellular vane 200. Additionally, the vane body 230 is configured to be folded or creased at first and second joint locations to form corresponding first and second joint fold edges 246, 248 spaced apart from the respective first and second ends 242, 244 of the body 230. Such joint fold edges 246, 248 may be configured to collectively form the rear or second edge 208 (FIG. 3) of the cellular vane 200.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the folded configuration generally divides the vane body 230 into four wall segments extending between / from the folds, with adjacent wall segments intersecting each other or otherwise being connected together at each fold edge 240, 246, 248 Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the folded vane body 230 includes first and second base wall segments 250, 252 extending from the first fold edge 240, with the first base wall segment 250 extending between the first fold edge 240 and the first joint fold edge 246 and the second base wall segment 252 extending between the first fold edge 240 and the second joint fold edge 248. Additionally, the folded vane body 230 includes first and second joint wall segments 254, 256 connected to first and second base wall segments 250, 252, respectively. Specifically, the first joint wall segment 254 is connected to the first base wall segment 250 and extends from the first joint fold edge 246 to the first end 244 of the vane body 230. Similarly, the second joint wall segment 256 is connected to the second base wall segment 252 and extends from the second joint fold edge 248 to the second end 244 of the vane body 230. Generally, the first and second joint wall segments 254, 256 may be configured to form the joint flanges 238 of the assembled or formed cellular vane 200.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 4. due to the relative positioning of the fold edges 240, 246, 248 between the opposed ends 242, 244 of the vane body 230, the base wall segments 250, 252 may generally define substantially the same length (e.g., a base segment length 258) and the joint wall segments 254, 256 may generally define substantially the same length (e.g., a joint segment length 260), with the joint segment length 260 being less than the base segment length 258. However, in other embodiments, the various wall segments 250, 252, 254, 256 may be configured to define any other suitable lengths relative to one another. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, the vane body 230 may generally define a fold edge angle 262 at the first fold edge 240 and joint edge angles 264 at the first and second joint fold edges 246, 248. In one embodiment, the fold edge angle 262 may correspond to an angle that is approximately twice the size of the joint edge angles 264. However, in otherembodiments, the various fold edges 240, 246, 248 may be configured to define any other suitable fold angles.

[0083] In several embodiments, the vane body 230 is formed from a thin-walled material, such as a film material. For instance, in one embodiment, the vane body 230 may be formed from a polyester film, such as a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film (e.g., commercially available as MYLAR®). However, in other embodiments, the vane body 230 may be formed from other suitable film materials, such as various other suitable polymer-based film materials. In one embodiment, the specific film material used to form the vane body 230 may be selected based on the desired properties of the material, such as the tendency for the material to want to spring back towards an original flat or nonfolded state upon being folded. Such a tendency facilitates the creation of an outward spring force at the fold edges 240, 246, 248 when the joint wall segments 254, 256 (or joint flanges 238) are coupled together to form the assembled state of the cellular vane 200.Additionally, in one embodiment, the film material used to form the vane body 230 may correspond to a commercially available pre-shrunk film material to prevent shrinkage issues or to otherwise provide dimensional stability to the matenal when exposed to extreme temperatures, particularly when exposure to a higher temperature range is anticipated.

[0084] In addition, a thickness of the film material may be selected to provide the desired structural integrity to the cellular vane 200 while also providing sufficient outward spring force at the fold edges 240, 246. 248. For instance, in one embodiment, the thickness of the film material forming the vane body 230 may range from 0.002 inches to 0.010 inches, such as from 0.003 inches to 0.009 inches, or from 0.004 inches to 0.007 inches, and / or any other subranges therebetween. However, it should be appreciated that material thicknesses outside the thickness ranges described above may also be utilized, depending on the properties of the material being used to form the vane body 230 and / or the desired characteristics of the vane body 230 and / or the resulting cellular vane 200.

[0085] It should be appreciated that the light transmissivity of the film material may be varied to adjust the light-transmission characteristics of the cellular vane 200. For instance, in several embodiments, the vane body 230 may be formed from a translucent film material (e.g. a colored film material, such as a white film material or any other suitable colored film material) or a blackout film material (e.g., a film material formed from a vacuum metallization process that provides for little or no light transmission). In addition, it may be desirable for the vane body 230 to be formed from a clear film material, particularly when the cellular vane 200 will include an outer facing layer laminated to the vane body230. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIG. 6, the cellular vane 200 may, in one embodiment, be formed from a laminated assembly including an outer facing layer and an inner core layer formed by the vane body 230. In such an embodiment, the film material forming the vane body 230 may be selected as a clear film material when it is desirable for the outer facing layer to be used as the primary source for varying the lighttransmission characteristics of the cellular vane 200.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 4, the base wall segments 250, 252 of the vane body 230 generally define straight or non-curved profiles along their lengths when the body 230 is in its non-formed or disassembled state. However, with the joint flanges 238 coupled together, the base wall segments 250, 252 may take on the curved profiles of the cellular structure 232 described above. Specifically, referring back to FIG. 3, the first base wall segment 250 of the vane body 230 may generally define the first curved profile extending along the first side 210 of the vane 200, while the second base wall segment 252 may generally define the second curved profile extending along the second side 212 of the vane 200. As indicated above, such curving or arcing of the wall segments 250, 252 may, in one embodiment, occur as a result of the outward spring force provided via the fold edges 240, 246. 248.

[0087] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3, with the cellular vane 200 in its formed or assembled state, the joint flanges 238 are generally configured to be placed in a side-by-side or overlapping configuration within the interior of the cellular structure 232 formed by the vane 200. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, each joint flange 238 extends inwardly from the rear or second edge 208 of the vane 200 in a side-by-side or overlapping relationship to form a joint interface 266 between the adjacent flanges 238 that extends along the widthwise centerline 234 within the interior of the vane 200, thereby allowing the flanges 238 to be coupled together along such centerline 234. For instance, as shown in FIG. 3, a flange joint may be formed via application of an adhesive (e.g., a glue bead 268) at the overlapped joint interface 266 defined betw een the joint flanges 238. Alternatively, any other suitable connection / joining means or methodology (e.g., tape, welding, etc.) may be used to form the overlapped flange joint between the joint flanges 238. This connection or coupling between the joint flanges 238 allows for the formation of the cellular structure 232 having the curved profiles described above.

[0088] It should be appreciated that, by configuring the flange joint in the manner shown in FIG. 3 such that spaces or gaps 276 are defined between the joint flanges 238 and the base wall segments 250, 252 forming the outer curved profiles of the cellular vane 200, light entering the vane 200 at or adjacent to its second edge 208 may be diffused across suchgaps / spaces 276. As a result of such light diffusion / scattering due to the gaps / spaces 276, the likelihood that a shadow is formed by the overlapping flanges 238 may be reduced significantly and even potentially eliminated completely, which can greatly improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the cellular vane 200 (e.g., as compared to a vane that may otherwise have a shadow at one of its edges due to a joint created at or adjacent to such edge).

[0089] Moreover, as shown in FIG. 3, with the cellular vane 200 in its formed or assembled state, the vane 200 defines a cell depth 270 in the depthwise direction D between the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 that is generally a function of inner cell angles 272, 274 formed at each of the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200. Specifically, the depth 270 of the vane 200 is generally proportional to the magnitude of the inner cell angles 272, 274. with the cell depth 270 generally increasing with increases in the inner cell angles 272, 274 (and vice versa). As such, the inner cell angles 272, 274 may generally be selected to provide the desired cell depth 270 and, thus, the desired overall shape of the resulting cellular vane 200. For instance, in one embodiment, each of the inner cell angles 272, 274 may correspond to an angle ranging from about 20 degrees to about 50 degrees, such as from about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees and / or any other subranges therebetween. In such an embodiment, the fold edge angle 262 (FIG. 4) of the vane body 230 similarly range from about 20 degrees to about 50 degrees (or from about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees) whereas each joint edge angle 264 (FIG. 4) of the vane body 230 may range from about 10 degrees to about 25 degrees (or from about 15 degrees to about 20 degrees), i.e., half of the fold edge angle 262, to allow the inner cell angles 272, 274 to be equal along each edge 206, 208 of the vane 200, thereby creating the symmetrical cellular shape. However, in other embodiments, the first and second inner cell angles 272, 274 may correspond to different angles.

[0090] In certain instances, the folds formed in the vane body 230 at the fold edges 240, 246, 248 may be subject to destabilization when the body 230 is exposed to higher temperatures, thereby causing the inner cell angles 272, 274 of the cellular structure 232 to increase as the folds expand outwardly towards an unfolded or straightened state. For instance, depending on the particular film material used to form the vane body 230, it is possible for the folds to destabilize or expand outwardly with exposure to the typical range of high-end temperatures found in window environments (e.g.. 120 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit). Such expansion of the folds will result in the cellular structure “puffing up?’ in the depthwise direction D as the cell depth 270 increases, which can lead to an undesirableoverall shape or profile for the cellular vane 200. Accordingly, to prevent or minimize expansion or destabilization of the folds, all or a portion of the material forming the vane body 230 can be heated to a suitable temperature to heat-set or heat stabilize the material at higher temperatures. For instance, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, the folds formed at the fold edges 240, 246, 248 may be heat-set or heat-stabilized by heating the material forming the vane body 230 only at the locations of the fold edges 240, 246. 248. Such localized heating provides an effective means for heat-setting or heatstabilizing the folds without requiring the entirety of the vane body 230 to be subject to a heat treatment process.

[0091] For example, FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a heat treatment apparatus or assembly 400 that allows for the folds of the vane body 230 to be heat-set or heat-stabilized (e.g. during an in-line vane manufacturing process). As shown, the assembly 400 includes first and second outer support plates 402, 404 spaced apart from one another such that the vane 200 (e.g., as formed into the cellular structure 232) can be supported between the support plates 402. 404 in a manner that allows the vertices or fold edges 240, 246. 248 (FIG. 4) of the vane body 230 to be heat treated via heated elements (e.g., first and second heated bars 406, 408) positioned along opposite sides of the body. Specifically, in one embodiment, the heated bars 406, 408 may be actuatable (e.g., along a widthwise centerline 410 of the assembly 400) towards the cellular vane 200 (e.g., as indicated by arrows 412) to move each heated bar 406, 408 into contact with the adjacent edges 206. 208 of the vane 200 (i.e., the adjacent fold edges 240, 246, 248 (FIG. 4) of the vane body 230) for a sufficient period of time to allow the vane material at each edge 206, 208 to be heated to a suitable temperature for heat-setting or heat-stabilizing the material (e.g., to a temperature above the glass transition temperature for the material). For instance, in one embodiment, the heated bars 406, 408 may be heated to a temperature above 250 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), such as a temperature ranging from about 300 °F to about 450 °F or from about 360 °F to about 400 °F. and moved into contact with the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200 for a period of less than 2 seconds, such as a time period ranging from about 0.5 second to about 1.5 seconds or from about 0.5 seconds to about 1 second, to provide sufficient heating to heat-set or heat-stabilize the material. However, it should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the specific temperature of the heated bars 406, 408 and / or the specific heating time may vary depending on the material used to form the vane body 230.

[0092] It should be appreciated that, although only a single pair of heated elements are shown in FIG. 5 (e.g., the pair of heated bars 406, 408), the heat treatment assembly 400may include two or more pairs of the heated elements positioned along the processing direction of the cellular vane 200 (e.g., a direction into and out of the page). For instance, when the vane 200 is being moved through the heat treatment assembly 400 in the processing direction as part of an in-line vane manufacturing process, the different pairs of heated elements may be sequentially actuated to heat the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200 as it passes thereby. It should also be appreciated that, in certain instances, it may be desirable to cool the edges 206. 208 of the vane 200 immediately following the heat treatment process. For instance, when the heat treatment process is part of in-line vane manufacturing process, cooling elements (e.g., cooling bars) or any other suitable cooling means may be provided immediately dow nstream of the heat treatment assembly 400 to allow the edges 206. 208 to be cooled prior to any further downstream processing of the vane 200.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 5, to support the vane 200 in position relative to the heated bars 406, 408 during the heat treatment process, the assembly 400 may also include a pair of edge guides (e.g., first and second edge guides 414, 416) positioned between the outer support plates 402, 404. Specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, each edge guide 414, 416 includes an upper edge guide member 418 coupled to and supported by the first outer support plate 402 and a lower edge guide member 420 coupled to and supported by the second outer support plate 404. Each edge guide member 418, 420 generally extends inwardly from its respective support plate 402, 404 towards the centerline 410 of the assembly 400 and terminates at an inner end of the edge guide member 418. 420, with the inner end 418A of each upper edge guide member 418 being spaced apart from the inner end 420A of the adjacent low er edge guide member 420 of the respective edge guide 414, 416 such that a gap is defined between the edge guide members 418, 420 for receiving the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200. As such, the edge guides 414, 416 may function to restrict movement of the vane 200 in the widthwise direction W, thereby maintaining the vane generally centered within the assembly 400.

[0094] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 5, the heat treatment assembly 400 may also include a pair of depth control plates (e.g., upper and lower depth control plates 422, 424) positioned between the outer support plates 402, 404 that are configured to constrain or limit outward movement of the vane 200 in the depthwise direction D during the heat treatment process. Specifically, as the heated bars 406, 408 are pressed into the vane, the inwardly- directed pressure applied by the heated bars 406, 408 at the edges 206. 208 would otherwise tend to force the vane 200 to ”puff-up" or expand outwardly in the depths direction D as the folds expand with movement of the edges 206, 208 inwardly towards each other. However,by providing the depth control plates 422, 424 along either side of the vane 200, such expansion of the vane 200 in the depthwise direction D is limited. In one embodiment, each depth control plate 422, 424 may be adjustably mounted to its respective support plate 402, 404 to allow the plates 424, 424 to be moved closer to or further away from one another in the depth wise direction D to adjust the dimension of a gap 426 defined between the plates to the desired cell depth 270 for the vane 200. As indicated above, an interdependent relationship generally exists between the cell depth 270 and the inner cell angles 272. 274 (FIG. 3) defined at the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200. Thus, by using the depth control plates 422, 424 to limit the depthwise expansion of the vane 200 to the desired cell depth 270, the core material located at the edges 206, 208 may be heat-set or heat-stabilized at the desired cell angle 272, 274. As a result, the desired shape of the vane 200 (e.g., including the desired cell angle 272, 274 and cell depth 270) can be maintained at high-end temperatures due to the material being heat-set or heat-stabilized at its edges 206, 208.

[0095] Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the cellular vane 200 described above with reference to FIGS. 2-4 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating an embodiment in which the vane body 230 forms part of a laminated assembly 280. It should be appreciated that, except as described below, the vane body 230 show n in FIG. 6 may generally be configured the same as or similar to that described above with reference to FIGS. 2-4.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 6, the cellular vane 200 may be formed from a laminated assembly 280 having inner and outer layers, with the inner layer being formed by the vane body 230 and the outer layer being formed from a vane sock or cover 282. In several embodiments, the vane cover 282 may be laminated to the vane body 230 prior to folding or creasing the body 230 as described above with reference to FIG. 4 and prior to heat-setting the vane 200 as described above with reference to FIG. 5. For instance, in one embodiment, the laminated assembly 280 may be initially correspond to a flat or non-folded structure with the vane cover 282 laminated directly to the flat or non-folded vane body 230. The assembly 280 may then be folded or creased as described above with reference to FIG. 4 to form the various fold edges 240, 246, 248 and related wall segments 250, 252, 254, 256 (with each w all segment being formed by sections of laminated body / cover), after w hich the cellular vane 200 may be assembled into its formed state by coupling the joint flanges 238 together to create the above-described cellular structure 232. As shown in FIG. 6. the adhesive bead 268 may be applied directly to the portions of the joint flanges 238 formed bythe vane cover 282 (as opposed to being applied directly to the vane body 230 as described above with reference to FIG. 3). The formed cellular structure 232 may then be heat-set or heat-stabilized in the manner described above with reference to FIG. 5, with the primary distinction being that the heated bars 406, 408 directly contact the outer layer formed by the vane cover 282 as opposed to the vane body 230 given that the vane cover 282 forms the outer layer (and, thus, defines the outer perimeter) of the vane 200. In such an embodiment, heat from the heated bars 406, 408 may be transmitted through the vane cover 282 to the fold edges 240, 246, 248 of the vane body 230 to heat-set or heat-stabilize the material forming the vane body 230.

[0097] The vane cover 282 may generally be formed from any suitable material. In several embodiments, given its outer positioning along the cellular vane 200, the vane cover 282 may be formed from a desirable facing material, such as any suitable aesthetic material. For instance, the vane cover 282 may be formed from a fabric material, such as a woven or non-woven fabric material. In one embodiment, the fabric material may be formed from thermoplastic fibers, such as polyester, nylon, or polyolefin fibers, or from any other suitable synthetic or natural fibers. In other embodiments, the vane cover 282 may be formed from any other suitable material.

[0098] Similar to the embodiment described above, the vane body 230 may, in several embodiments, be formed from a film material, such as a polyester film. In such embodiments, when the vane cover 282 is formed from a fabric material, the laminate assembly 280 may generally be formed by laminating the film material to the fabric material. As such, when the cellular vane 200 is provided in the assembled state shown in FIG. 6, the film material may generally from the inner layer or core of the vane 200, with the fabric material forming the outer later or exterior of the vane 200.

[0099] It should be appreciated that the light transmissivity of the materials used to form the vane cover 282 and vane body 230 may be varied to adjust the light-transmission characteristics of the cellular vane 200. For instance, in embodiments in which the vane cover 282 is being formed from a translucent material (e g., a translucent fabric material), the vane body 230 may be formed from a clear film material to provide a translucent cellular vane 200. In another implementation using the same translucent material for the vane cover 282, the vane body 230 may be formed from a blackout film material (e.g., a film material formed from a vacuum metallization process that provides for little or no light transmission) to provide a blackout or room-darkening configuration for the cellular vane 200. Alternatively, the vane cover 282 may be used as the primary source for varying the light-transmission characteristics of the cellular vane 200. For instance, with the vane body 230 being formed from a clear film material, the vane cover 282 may be formed from a translucent material to provide a translucent cellular vane or from a blackout material to provide a blackout or room-darkening cellular vane.

[0100] Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, different views of one embodiment of a vane hanger 350 suitable for use within the disclosed mounting system 300 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the vane hanger 350 and FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the vane hanger 350 shown in FIG. 7. As indicated above, the disclosed mounting system 300 may include a plurality of vane hangers 350, with each hanger 350 configured to be coupled between a tilt post 320 of an associated carrier assembly 310 and a respective cellular vane 200. As such, each vane hanger 350 may generally be configured to vertically support its respective vane 200 relative to the rail 302 of the mounting system 300.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the vane hanger 350 may generally include a central hanger body 352 having a top end 354, a bottom end 356, and opposed first and second sides 358. 360 extending vertically between the top and bottom ends 354, 356 of the hanger body 352. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the opposed first and second sides 358, 360 of the hanger body 352 generally taper inwardly as the body 352 extends vertically between its top and bottom ends 354, 356 such that a lower portion of the body 352 is V-shaped or arrow-shaped. As will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9-12, this tapered profile of the hanger body 352 may allow for the body 352 to be inserted within (or speared into) the interior of the associated cellular vane 200 when installing the vane hanger 350 relative to the vane 200 and may also serve as a guide for the top end 202 of the vane 200 during the assembly process. In addition, the tapered profile of the hanger body 352 may also provide clearance when disassembling vane 200 from the hanger 350. As shown in FIG. 7, the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 may define a body width 362. As will be described below, such body width 362 may, in one embodiment, be less than a corresponding width 218 (FIG. 9) of the mounting slot 216 defined at the top end 202 of the vane 200, thereby allowing the hanger 350 to be recessed relative to the top end 202 of the vane 200 to minimize or prevent any light gaps between the vanes 200 and the rail 302 of the mounting system 300.

[0102] Additionally, the hanger body 352 may also include a cylindrically shaped, centrally-located connector post 364. As particularly shown in FIG. 7, first and second mounting pins 366, 368 extend outwardly from the connector post 364 for coupling thehanger 350 to a tilt post 320 of an associated carrier assembly 310 of the mounting system 300. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIGS. 13-15, the connector post 364 may be configured to be inserted within a corresponding portion of the tilt post 320 such that the mounting pins 366, 368 are received within pivot slots 322 (FIGS. 13-15) defined in such portion of the tilt post 320, which may allow the vane hanger 350 to pivot slightly relative to the tilt post 320 to accommodate the rail 302 being out-of-level or any other conditions requiring relative movement between such components to maintain the cellular vane 200 at a vertically oriented position.

[0103] Referring still to FIGS. 7 and 8, the vane hanger 350 also includes connector wings 370, 372 extending downwardly from the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 along each respective side 358, 360 of the body 352. Specifically, a first connector wing 370 extends downw ardly from the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 along the first side 358 of the body 352, while a second connector wing 372 extends downwardly from the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 along the second side 360 of the body 352. As particularly show n in FIG. 8, the wings 370, 372 are spaced apart from the opposed sides 358. 360 of the hanger body 352 such that a vane slot 374 is defined between each wing 370. 372 and the adjacent side 358, 360 of the hanger body 352. As will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9-12, the vane slots 374 may be configured to receive portions of the opposed sides 210, 212 of the cellular vane 200 as the top end 202 of the vane 200 is being assembly relative to the hanger 350. with the mounting slots 216 (FIG. 2) defined at the top end 202 of the vane 200 generally being aligned with such vane slots 374.

[0104] Additionally, as particularly shown in FIG. 8, each connector wing 370, 372 includes an inwardly extending vane post 376. Each vane post 376 may generally be configured to extend through one of the respective mounting openings 214 (FIG. 2) defined in the cellular vane 200 when the vane 200 is assembled relative to the hanger 350, thereby allowing the hanger 350 to vertically support the vane 200 relative to the rail 302. As shown in FIG. 8, each vane post 376 includes a lip 378 at its outer or distal edge, thereby configuring the vane post 376 as a hook-like connection member for retaining the vane 200 relative to the hanger 350 when the vane 200 is suspended therefrom. It should be appreciated that the connection between the vane posts 376 and the vane 200 (e.g., via the mounting openings 214) may create a pivot joint between the hanger 350 and the vane 200 that allows the vane 200 to pivot relative to the hanger 350 about the vane posts 376. Such pivotably may allow the vane 200 to maintain its vertical orientation despite the rail 302 or any other components of the mounting system 300 being out-of-level.

[0105] Referring now to FIGS. 9-12, different perspective views of the vane hanger 350 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 positioned relative to the top end 202 of the cellular vane 200 shown in FIG. 2 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the vane hanger 350 exploded away from the top end 202 of the cellular vane 200, while FIG. 10 illustrates the vane hanger 350 shown in FIG. 9 in an installed or assembled state relative to the top end 202 of the vane 200. FIG. 10 also illustrates a dashed-line version of the vane hanger 350 exploded away from top end 202 of the vane 200 to demonstrate one exemplary method for assembling the vane hanger 350 relative to the vane 200. Additionally, FIG. 11 illustrates a partial, cross- sectional view of the vane 200 and hanger 350 shown in FIG. 10, particularly illustrating the vane / hanger in their installed or assembled state. FIG. 12 illustrates a similar cross- sectional view of the vane 200 and hanger 350 as that shown in FIG. 11, but demonstrates one exemplary method for disassembling the vane 200 from the vane hanger 350.

[0106] As indicated above, the cellular vane 200 may be configured to be supported by (and suspended from) the inwardly extending vane posts 376 of the vane hanger 350, with each vane post 376 configured to be received within a respective mounting opening 214 defined in the vane 200 adjacent to its top end 202. In this regard, when installing the vane 200 relative to the vane hanger 350 (or vice versa), the top end 202 of the vane 200 may be configured to be positioned relative to the vane hanger 350 such that the mounting slots 216 of the vane 200 are aligned with the hanger body 352. As shown in FIG. 9, each mounting slot 216 may define a slot width 218 that is greater than the body width 362 of the top end 354 of the hanger body 352, thereby allowing the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 to be received within the mounting slots 216. As will be described below, with such a configuration, the top end 354 of the hanger body 352 may be configured to be positioned flush with or even recessed below the top end 202 of the vane 200 to minimize the potential for light gaps. Additionally, the mounting openings 214 of the vane 200 may generally be aligned with the vane posts 376 of the hanger body 352 as the top end 354 of the body 352 is received within the mounting slots 216, thereby allowing the vane posts 376 to be received within and extend through the mounting openings 214. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, with such relative positioning of the vane / hanger, the V-shaped lower portion of the hanger body 352 is received within the interior of the cellular structure defined by the vane 200, while the connector wings 370, 372 are positioned exterior to the cellular structure along the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200.

[0107] As particularly shown in FIG. 11, when in the assembled or installed state, the cellular vane 200 may be supported directly by the vane posts 376 of the vane hanger 350, with each side 210, 212 of the vane 200 resting on the adjacent vane post 376 at the top end of the associated mounting opening 214. In this regard, the lip 378 provided at the outer edge of each vane post 376 may function to prevent the respective side of the cellular vane 200 from becoming disengaged from the vane post 376 (e.g., by sliding off the post 376) during operation of the associated covering 100 (and, generally, at any instance in which vane 200 is supported on the posts 376 via gravity). As shown in FIG. 11, the positioning of the vertical sections of the vane 200 extending between the mounting openings 214 and the bottom ends of the mounting slots 216 (indicated by brackets 241) relative to the hanger body 352 may also assist in maintaining the vane 200 on the vane posts 376. Specifically, even if the vane 200 shifts upwardly relative to the vane posts 376 during normal use, such vertical sections 241 of the vane 200 will remain confined within the upper portion of the slots 374 defined between the vane body 352 and the wings 370, 372, which prevents the sides of the vane 200 from shifting inwardly and potentially becoming disengaged from the vane posts 376. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 11. when in the assembled or installed state, a vertical offset 380 may be defined between the bottom ends of the mounting slots 216 and the top end 354 of the hanger 350. In several embodiments, such vertical offset 380 may be equal to or less than a vertical height 220 (FIG. 9) of the mounting slots 216. In such embodiments, the top end 202 of the vane 200 may be positioned flush with or even above the top end 354 of the hanger 350 (depending on the relative dimensions), thereby allowing the top end 202 of the vane 200 to be positioned directly adjacent to the bottom end of the rail 302 of the mounting system 300. As a result, the illustrated vane / hanger connection may allow for little or no light gap to be defined between the top ends 202 of the vanes 200 and the rail 302, thereby improving the light-blocking functionality of the associated covering 100.

[0108] Referring back to FIGS. 9 and 10, the vane / hanger may be configured to be assembled relative to each other in a number of different ways. For instance, as shown in FIG. 9, in one embodiment, the vane 200 and hanger 350 may be positioned relative to each other such that vane posts 376 of the hanger 350 are generally vertically aligned with the corresponding mounting openings 214 defined the vane 200 (and such that the mounting slots 216 are generally vertically aligned with the vane slots 374 defined by the hanger 350), thereby allowing the vane 200 to be assembled onto the hanger 350 (or vice versa) by simply moving the top end 202 of the vane 200 vertically relative to the hanger 350 (or viceversa) until the top end 354 of the vane body 352 is received within the mounting slots 216 and the vane posts 376 are received within the mounting openings 214. Alternatively, FIG. 10 illustrates a two-step assembly method in which the vane 200 and hanger 350 are initially positioned relative to each other such that the top end 202 of the vane 200 is received within the vane slots 374 at a location offset from the mounting openings / slots 214, 216. For instance, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the vane / hanger may be partially assembled by inserting the top end 202 of the vane 200 into the slots 374 defined by the vane hanger 350 (or vice versa) such that the hanger body 352 is received within the interior of the vane 200 at a location spaced apart from the mounting openings / slots 214, 216 (e.g., at a location closer to one of the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200). Thereafter, the vane 200 may be shifted relative to the hanger 350 (or vice versa) in the widthwise direction W until the mounting slots 216 are aligned with top end 354 of the hanger body 352 (and the mounting openings 214 are aligned with the vane posts 376 of the hanger 350), thereby allowing the posts 376 to be received within the openings 214 to complete the assembly process.

[0109] Referring specifically to FIGS. 11 and 12, when disassembling the vane / hanger, the vane 200 may be configured to be moved or shifted upwardly and inwardly relative to the hanger 350 to allow the vane 200 to clear the vane posts 376 of the hanger 350. In particular, as described above with reference to FIG. 11, the retention lips 378 provided on the vane posts 376 may function to prevent the vane 200 from sliding off the posts 376. Thus, as shown in FIG. 12, to disassemble the vane 200 from the hanger 350, the vane 200 may be shifted upwardly (e g., as indicated by arrows 381) to allow the vane 200 to clear the retention lips 378. Simultaneously with such upward movement (or immediately thereafter), the top portion of the vane 200 may be moved inwardly relative to the hanger 350 (as indicated by dashed arrows 382 shown in FIG. 12) by pressing against the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 at a location directly below the hanger 350 such that the sides 210, 212 shift inwardly (e.g., to the state / position indicated by the dashed lines 384 shown in FIG. 12), thereby allowing the vane 200 to be disengaged from the posts 376 and shifted downwardly relative to the hanger 350 to disassemble the vane 200 therefrom. In this regard, it should be appreciated the lower portion of the hanger body 352 may be configured to accommodate such inward pressing of the opposed sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 due to the V-shaped or tapered configuration of the body 352, which provides ample clearance for disengaging the vane 200 from the vane posts 376.

[0110] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, perspective views of one embodiment of a tilt post 320 suitable for use as part of a carrier assembly 310 of the disclosed mountingsystem 300 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of the tilt post 320, while FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the tilt post 320 shown in FIG. 13. As indicated above, each tilt post 320 may be configured to be coupled between its respective carrier 312 and an associated vane hanger 350 to allow the tilt post 320 to rotationally support a cellular vane 200 (e.g., via the associated vane hanger 350) for tilting about its tilt axis 201.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. the tilt post 320 may generally extend lengthwise between a carrier end 324 and a hanger end 326 and may include both a carrier portion 328 and a hanger portion 330, w ith the carrier portion 328 extending from the carrier end 324 to the hanger portion 330 and the hanger portion 330 extending from the carrier portion 328 to the hanger end 326. In general, the carrier portion 328 of the tilt post 320 may be configured to be coupled to a corresponding portion of a carrier 312 of a respective carrier assembly 310 of the disclosed mounting system 300. In this regard, the carrier portion 328 may incorporate or include one or more features configured to interact with or engage the corresponding portion of the carrier 312 in a manner that allows the tilt post 320 to be rotated about its central axis (which also corresponds to the tilt axis 201 of the associated vane 200) to allow for tilting of the vane 200 coupled thereto (e.g., via the vane hanger 350). For example, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the carrier portion 328 of the tilt post 320 includes one or more radial projections 332 configured to engage a corresponding rotational drive source of the associated carrier 312 to allow the tilt post 320 to be rotated about its central axis when tilting the vanes 200 (e.g., with rotation or other manipulation of the associated tilt wand 102). As indicated above, in one embodiment, the tilt post 320 may be configured for use with the carrier assembly described in U.S. Patent No. 6,321,821 (“the "821 patent). In such an embodiment, the radial projections 332 may, for example, correspond to the “annular projections” of the ‘821 patent and, thus, may be configured to engage portions of the “toothed wheel” of the ‘821 patent to allow the tilt post 320 to be rotationally driven abouts its central axis with rotation of the toothed w heel.

[0112] The hanger portion 330 of the tilt post 320 may generally be configured to be coupled to a corresponding portion of the vane hanger 350. In this regard, the hanger portion 330 may incorporate or include one or more features configured to interact with or engage the corresponding portion of the vane hanger 350 in a manner that allow s hanger 350 to be coupled to (and vertically supported by) the tilt post 320 such that rotation of the tilt post 320 about its central axis results in corresponding rotation of the vane hanger 350 and the vane 200 coupled thereto. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the hangerportion 350 includes a pair of arcuate hanger tabs 334 defining a cylindrically -shaped hanger channel 336 therebetween that is configured to receive the correspondingly-shaped connector post 364 of the vane hanger 350. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, each hanger tab 334 defines a pivot slot 322 configured to receive one of the mounting pins 366, 368 of the vane hanger 350 when the connector post 364 of the hanger 350 is received within the hanger channel 336 defined by the hanger tabs 334. As will be described below with reference to FIG. 15. each pivot slot 322 may. in one embodiment, be slightly V- shaped or angled upwardly from the center of the slot 322 to define a pivot range across which the hanger 350 is allowed to pivot relative to the tilt post 320.

[0113] Referring now to FIG. 15, an assembled, side view of the vane hanger 350 described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 and the tilt post 320 described above with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating the vane hanger 350 coupled to the tilt post 320 in the manner described above. FIG. 15 also illustrates a zoomed-in view of the portion of the assembled hanger / post contained within box 338 to illustrate one of the pivot slots 322 of the tilt post 320 (and the associated mounting pin 366 of the vane hanger 350 received therein).

[0114] As shown in FIG. 15, each pivot slot 322 may be substantially V-shaped such that the slot 322 extends upwardly from the center thereof at a given slot angle 340. For instance, in one embodiment, the slot angle 340 may range from about 5 degrees to about 20 degrees, such as from about 10 degrees to about 15 degrees and / or any other subranges therebetween. This V-shaped slot 322 may allow the mounting pins 366, 368 of the hanger 350 to ride-up the angled or sloped sections of the slots 322 in instances in which the hanger 350 needs to pivot slightly relative to the tilt post 320. For instance, when the cellular vanes 200 are tilted to their closed position, the manner in which the vanes overlap each other may differ vane-to-vane given the depthwise thickness of the vanes 200 and the potential for the vanes 200 to contact neighboring vanes at slightly different locations, which can lead to a torsional force being applied through one or more of the vanes. In this regard, the torsional force applied through the vane(s) may be relieved by allowing the respective hanger(s) 350 to pivot relative to the associated tilt post(s) 320 via the connection provided by the pivot slots 322 and corresponding mounting pins 366, 368. In addition, due to the sloped sections of each slot 322, the effect of gravity will force the respective mounting pins 366, 368 of the hanger 350 back towards the center of the slot 322. As such, after pivoting relative to thetilt post 320, the vane hanger 350 may be gravity-fed back down the sloped section(s) to its home or center position defined at the center of the pivot slot 322.

[0115] The pivotable connection provided between each hanger 350 and its respective tilt post 320 may also, in certain instances, allow the vanes 200 to be closed when the covering 100 is moved to a partially extended position. For instance, when the covering 100 is partially extended (e.g., such that a portion of the vanes 200 are spaced apart across a given section of the adjacent architectural structure while the remainder of the vanes 200 are still stacked together along the side of the architectural structure), the stacked vanes 200 may contact or interfere with one another prior to the extended vanes 200 reaching their closed positions as the vanes 200 are being tilted from the opened position to the closed position. In this regard, the pivotable connection between the vane hangers 350 and the tilt posts 320 may allow the system to accommodate the additional tilting required to move the extended vanes 200 to their closed position (e.g., by allowing relative pivoting between the hangers / posts for the stacked vanes 200). To achieve such functionality, the length of the pivot slots 322 may be selected to provide the required pivot range between the vane hangers 350 and the tilt posts 320 (e.g.. about 50 degrees to about 60 degrees). In doing so. the arc length of the hanger tabs 334 may be increased, if necessary, to accommodate any required increase in the length of the pivot slots 322, such as by reconfiguring the tabs 334 as an annular ring defining the opposed pivot slots 322. In such instance, the vane hanger 350 may be similarly modified to accommodate the ring-shaped connection member, such as by removing the material or walls extending between the connector post 364 and the adjacent portions of the hanger body 352.

[0116] Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, rear perspective views of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes 200 of the covering 100 shown in FIG. 1 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating components of the vane connection system 500 of the covering 100. Specifically, FIG. 16 illustrates an assembled view of the vane connection system 500 relative to the cellular vanes 200, while FIG. 17 illustrates a view in which the cord assembly 540 of the system 500 has been exploded away from the vanes 200 to show certain features of the cord assembly 540.

[0117] As indicated above, the vane connection system 500 may generally include a plurality of vane connection clips 510, w ith each connection clip 510 being coupled to a respective cellular vane 200 at or adjacent to the bottom end 204 of the vane 200. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. each connection clip 510 may be coupled to its respective vane 200 along the back side of the covering by being inserted within theconnection slot 222 (FIG. 2) defined in the rear or second edge 208 of each vane 200. Additionally, as indicated above, the vane connection system 500 also includes a connection cord assembly 540 (e.g., a flexible cord assembly) coupled to each connection clip 510 such that the cord assembly 540 extends between each adjacent pair of cellular vanes 200, thereby coupling the vanes 200 together via the clip / cord combination. As particularly shown in FIG. 17. in one embodiment, the cord assembly 540 may include a base cord 542 and a plurality of cord loops 544 coupled to and extending from the base cord 542 at spaced apart locations along the length of the cord 542. The spacing between adjacent cord loops 544 may generally be selected based on the spacing between adjacent cellular vanes 200 when the vanes 200 are moved to the extended position. For instance, the loop spacing may be slightly larger than the vane spacing such that a little slack exists within the cord 542 between adjacent vanes 200.

[0118] It should be appreciated that, for purposes of illustration, the cord loops 544 are shown in FIG. 17 as being a different thickness / diameter or cord weight as the base cord 542. However, the cord loops 544 may generally have any suitable thickness / diameter or cord weight, including being the same thickness / diameter or cord weight as the base cord 542. It should also be appreciated that, although the base cord 542 and cord loops 544 are generally being described separately herein, these components may be formed integrally (e.g., through a weaving process) such that the cord assembly 540 generally corresponds to a single, integrally formed cord / loop assembly.

[0119] As will be described below, the cord assembly 540 may be configured to be coupled to the connection clips 510 via the cord loops 544, with each cord loop 544 being secured to a respective clip 510. The clips 510 may then be installed relative to the cellular vanes 200 (e.g., by inserting each clip 510 into the associated connection slot 222 (FIG. 2) defined in the respective vane 200) to allow the cord assembly 540 to couple the vanes 200 of the covering 100 together across their bottom ends 204. This cord-based connection betw een the vanes 200 may function to dampen or reduce relative movement of the vanes 200 as they are being moved laterally between the extended / retracted positions and / or in instances in which one or more of the vanes 200 are contacted in a manner that would cause the vane 200 to swing laterally or in-and-out (e.g., relative to the room). In this regard, the vane connection system 500 may generally function to limit or dampen any swinging motion of the bottom ends 204 of the vanes 200.

[0120] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, different views of one embodiment of a vane connection clip 510 that may be utilized within the vane connection system 500 shownin FIGS. 16 and 17 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of the connection clip 510 with a partial view of the cord assembly 540 assembled relative thereto. Additionally, FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the connection clip 510 shown in FIG. 18, particularly illustrating the clip 510 installed relative to the connection slot 222 of a cellular vane 200 (shown in dashed lines for purposes of illustration) and the cord assembly 540 being assembled relative thereto.

[0121] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. the connection clip may generally include a clip body 512 extending lengthwise between an insertion end 514 and a slot end 516, with the insertion end 514 configured to be inserted into and positioned within the interior of the vane 200 when the clip 510 is installed relative thereto and the slot end 516 configured to be positioned exterior of the vane 200 when the clip 510 is installed relative thereto. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the insertion end 514 of the clip body 512 may have a tapered or spear-head configuration to allow the clip body 512 to be easily inserted into the connection slot 222 of the vane 200 during the installation process. Additionally, the slot end 516 of the clip body 512 may correspond to a flanged portion of the body 512 having first and second flanges 518, 520 extending outwardly from a head 522 of the clip body 512 positioned at or adjacent to the slot end 516 of the clip 510. As particularly shown in FIG. 19, when the clip 510 is installed relative to the vane 200, the flanges 518, 520 may contact and extend across portions of the exterior of the vane 200 (e.g., across portions of the rear or second edge 209 of the vane extending 200 from each end of the connection slot 222) while the clip head 522 extends into and through the connection slot 222. As such, the flanges 518, 520 may function as mechanical stops when inserting the clip 510 into the connection slot 222 to prevent over-insertion. Moreover, the clip 510 may also include a cord slot 524 defined at its slot end 516 for receiving the base cord 542 of the cord assembly 540. For instance, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the cord slot 524 may be formed in the slot end 516 of the clip body 512 at a central location between the first and second flanges 518, 520.Thus, when the cord assembly 540 is assembled relative to the connection clip 510, the base cord 542 may be seated within the cord slot 524 and may be generally recessed relative to the slot end 516 of the connection clip 510.

[0122] Referring still to FIGS. 18 and 19, in several embodiments, the connection clip 510 may also include a loop clip 526 for coupling one of the cord loops 544 of the cord assembly 540 to the connection clip 510. Specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the loop clip 526 includes a clip arm 528 movable relative to the clip body 512 to allow the cord loop 544 to be received within a correspond loop cavity 530 for retentiontherein. For instance, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the clip arm 528 may be formed integrally with the clip body 512 such that the arm 528 may be flexed outwardly away from the body 512 to allow the cord loop 544 to be inserted within the loop cavity 530 and then may spring back inwardly to its normal or home position to retain the cord loop 544 within the cavity 530. As indicated above, the cord loop 544 is shown schematically in the drawings as having a relatively small thickness / diameter or cord weight. In general, the thickness / diameter or cord weight of the cord loop 544 may be greater than the width or size of the gap defined between the clip body 512 and the clip arm 528 (e g., when the arm 528 is in its normal position) to ensure that the cord loop 544 is retained within the loop cavity 530.

[0123] In addition, the connection clip 510 may also include retention features configured to prevent the clip 510 from backing out of the connection slot 222 following assembly of the clip 510 within the slot 222. For instance, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the connection clip 510 includes first and second spring arms 532, 534 extending outwardly from the clip body 512. Similar to the clip arm 528 described above, the spring arms 532, 534 may be formed integrally with the clip body 512 such that the arms 532, 534 may be flexed inwardly tow ards the body 512 to allow the connection clip 510 to be inserted into the connection slot 222 and then may spring back outw ardly into their normal or home positions to retain the clip 510 within the slot 222. As such, when installing the connection clip 510 relative to the vane 200, the spring arms 532, 534 may flex inwardly as the clip 510 is pushed or inserted into the slot 222 until the spring arms 532, 534 clear the slot 222, at which point the arms 532, 34 may spring back outwardly to their normal position. As shown in FIG. 19, when in their normal positions, a vertical distance 536 between the distal ends of the spring arms 532. 534 may be greater than a height 223 of the connection slot 222, thereby allowing the spring arms 532, 534 to retain the connection clip 510 in its installed state relative to the vane 200.

[0124] Referring now to FIG. 20, another rear perspective view of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes 200 of the covering 100 shown in FIG. 1 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating components of a different embodiment of the vane connection system 500* of the covering 100. As shown in FIG. 20, similar to the embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, the vane connection system 500* includes a plurality of vane connection clips 510* configured to be coupled to the cellular vanes 200 and a connection cord assembly 540 (e.g., a flexible cord assembly) coupled to each connection clip 510* such that the cord assembly540 extends between each adjacent pair of cellular vanes 200, thereby coupling the vanes 200 together via the clip / cord combination. However, unlike the embodiment described above in which the connection clips 510 are installed along the rear edges 208 of the vanes 200 (with the connection cord 542 extending laterally across the rear or back side of the covering 100), the connection clips 510* are configured to be installed at the bottom ends 204 of the vanes 200 such that the cord assembly 540 extends along the bottom side of the covering 100.

[0125] To allow for the connector clips 510* to be installed at the bottom ends 204 of the cellular vanes 200, each vane 200 may define one or more connection / mounting features at or adjacent to its bottom end 204. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, one of the vanes 200 (e.g., the right side vane) is shown with the connector clip 510* remove to allow the connection / mounting features to be viewed. As shown, each vane 200 may, in one embodiment, define a pair of aligned connection openings 214* (only one of which is shown) adjacent to its bottom end 204, as well as a pair of mounting slots 216* (only one of which is shown) at its bottom end 204, for receiving corresponding features of the connector clips 510*. In one embodiment, the connection openings / slots 214*, 216* may be configured the same as or similar to the mounting openings / slots 214, 216 described above with reference to FIG. 2. However, in other embodiments, the vanes 200 may define any other suitable connection / mounting features at or adjacent to their bottom ends 204 for accommodating the connection clips 510*.

[0126] Referring now to FIGS. 21 and 22, different view s of one embodiment of a vane connection clip 510* that may be utilized within the vane connection system 500* shown in FIG. 20 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of the connection clip 510* with an associated clip cover 590* exploded away therefrom. Additionally, FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of the connection clip 510* shown in FIG. 21, particularly illustrating the clip 510* installed relative to the connection openings / slots 214*, 216* of a cellular vane 200 (shown in dashed lines for purposes of illustration) and the cord assembly 540 being assembled relative thereto.

[0127] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, in several embodiments, the connection clip 510* may be configured similarly to the vane hanger 350 described above with reference to FIGS. 7-12 (less the features included for coupling the hanger 350 to the tilt post 320 of the mounting system 300). For instance, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the connection clip 510* may generally include a clip body 552* (e.g., configured similar to thehanger body 352 shown in FIGS. 7-12) having a top end 554*, a bottom end 556*, and opposed first and second sides 558*, 560* extending vertically between the top and bottom ends 554*, 556* of the clip body 552*, with the opposed sides 554*, 556* tapering inwardly as the body 552* extends vertically from its bottom end 556* to its top end 554*.Additionally, the connector clip 510* includes connector wings 570*, 572* (e.g., configured similar to the connector wings 370, 372 shown in FIGS. 7-12) extending upwardly from the bottom end 556* of the clip body 552* along each respective side 558*. 560* of the body 552*. As particularly shown in FIG. 22, the wings 570*, 572* are spaced apart from the opposed sides 558*, 560* of the clip body 552* such that a vane slot 574* is defined between each wing 570*, 572* and the adjacent side 558*, 560* of the clip body 552*. Additionally, each connector wing 570*, 572* includes an inwardly extending vane post 576* having a hook-like configuration (e.g., configured similar to the vane post 376 shown in FIGS. 7-12). With such a configuration, the connector clip 510* may generally be configured to be coupled to the bottom end 204 of the vane 200 in the same manner in which the vane hanger 350 is configured to be coupled to the top end 202 of the vane 200. For instance, as shown in FIG. 22, the connection slots 216* defined at the bottom end 204 of the vane 200 may aligned the clip body 552* such that the bottom end 556* of the body 552* is received within the slots 574* while the vane posts 576* are received within the corresponding connection openings 214*, thereby coupling the clip 510* to the vane 200.

[0128] Referring still to FIGS. 21 and 22, unlike the embodiments of the vane hanger 350 described above, the connection clip 510* may also include features for coupling the cord assembly 540 of the vane connection system 500* to the clip 510*. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the clip body 552* defines a cord slot 586* through its bottom end 556* for receiving an associated cord loop 544 of the cord assembly 540. Additionally, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the clip body 552 defines a loop cavity 587* having a loop post 588* extending from the center thereof As such, when assembling the cord assembly 540 relative to the connection clip 510*, the cord loop 544 may be inserted into the loop slot 586* and looped around the loop post 588* (e.g., as shown in FIG. 22).

[0129] Moreover, in several embodiments, a connection cover 590* may be provided to retain the cord loop 544 within the loop cavity 587*. Specifically, the connection cover 590* may be configured to be coupled to the clip body 552* (e.g., bysnapping the cover 590* onto the clip body 552*) to cover cover / close the loop cavity 587* of the connector clip 510*. As shown in FIG. 21, the cover 590* may include a cover body591* extending between a top end 592* and a bottom end 593*, with the body 591* defining a tapering shape / profile between its top / bottom ends 591*, 592* that is complementary to the shape / profile of the clip body 552* of the connector clip 510*. Additionally, the cover body 591* may define a central post opening 594* configured to receive the loop post 588*. As such, when the cover 590* is installed relative to the connection clip 510*, the cord loop 544 may be trapped on the loop post 588* between the cover 590* and the clip body 552*. As shown in FIG. 21, the cover 590* may also define a cord slot 595* at its bottom end 593* that is configured to be aligned with the cord slot 586* defined by the clip body 552 to allow the cord loop 544 to pass therethrough.

[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 23 and 24, additional rear perspective views of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes 200 of the covering 100 shown in FIG. 1 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating components of another embodiment of the vane connection system 500** of the covering 100. Specifically, FIG. 23 illustrates an assembled view of the vane connection system 500** relative to the cellular vanes 200, while FIG. 24 illustrates a view in which a base or connection cord 542** of the system 500** and corresponding connection clips 510** of the system 500** have been exploded away from the vanes 200 to show certain features of the cord 542** and clips 510**.

[0131] As shown in FIGS. 23 and 24. similar to the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 16. 17, and 20. the vane connection system 500** includes a plurality of vane connection clips 510** configured to be coupled to the cellular vanes 200 and a connection cord 542** (e.g., a flexible cord) coupled to each connection clip 510** such that the cord 542** extends between each adjacent pairs of cellular vanes 200, thereby coupling the vanes 200 together via the clip / cord combination. However, unlike the embodiments described above, each connection clip 510** may have a looped or ring-like configuration configured to be coupled to a respective vane 200 (e.g., along the rear edge 208 of the vane 200) via one or more connection / mounting features defined or formed in the vane 200.

[0132] For instance, as particularly shown in FIG. 24, each vane 200 may. in one embodiment, define a pair of aligned connection openings 214** (only one of which is shown for each vane 200) adjacent to its rear edge 208 and a narrow mounting slot 216** extending from each opening 214** to the rear edge 208 of the vane 200 such that the mounting slot 216** forms a narrow insertion slit for installing each connection clip 510** relative to its respective vane 200. Specifically, each connection clip 510** may be insertedthrough the mounting slot 216** of its respective vane 200 such that a looped portion 511** of the connection clip 510** is received within the aligned connection openings 214** of the vane 200, thereby coupling the clip 510** to the vane 200. In such an embodiment, the narrowness of the insertion slit formed by the mounting slot 216** may prevent the connection clip 510** from backing out or otherwise becoming unintentionally decoupled from the vane 200.

[0133] It should be appreciated that, similar to the embodiment described above, the vane connection clips 510** may be coupled to the connection cord 542** at spaced apart locations along the length of the cord 542**, with the spacing between adjacent clips 510** generally being selected based on the desired spacing between adjacent cellular vanes 200 when the vanes 200 are moved to the extended position. For instance, the clip spacing may be slightly larger than the vane spacing such that a little slack exists within the cord 542** between adjacent vanes 200 when in the extended position.

[0134] Referring now to FIG. 25, a perspective view of one embodiment of one of the vane connection clips 510** described above with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. As shown, the connection clip 510** may include both a looped portion 51 1** and a cord connection portion 513**. As indicated above, the looped portion 511** of the connection clip 510** may be configured to be coupled to a respective vane 200 (e.g., via the mounting slot 216** and the aligned connection openings 214**). In such an embodiment, the looped portion 51 1 * may generally correspond to a looped or ring-shaped structure configured to be inserted through the mounting slot 216** for receipt within the aligned openings 214** to couple the clip 510** to its respective vane 200.

[0135] The cord connection portion 513** of the clip 510** may generally extend outwardly from the looped portion 511** and may be configured for coupling the clip 510** to the connection cord 542** (FIGS. 23 and 24). For instance, as shown in FIG. 25, the cord connection portion 513** may be configured as a tab-like structure defining a pass- through cord opening 515** for receiving the connection cord 542**. In such an embodiment, the connection cord 542** may be coupled to the clip 510** within the cord opening 515** using any suitable connection means / method. For instance, in one embodiment, the connection clip 510** may correspond to a molded component, in which case the cord connection portion 513** may be overmolded onto or around the cord 542**. In another embodiment, the cord 542** may be secured within the cord opening 515** using any other suitable attachment means, such as by adhering the cord 542** within theopening 515**. In yet another embodiment, the cord connection portion 513** of the clip 510** may correspond to a hinged component, in which case the cord connection portion 513** may be moved to an opened position to allow the cord 542** to be inserted within the cord opening 515** and then the cord connection portion 513** can be moved to a closed position to clamp or secure the cord 542** within the cord opening 515**.

[0136] Referring now to FIGS. 26 and 27, further rear perspective views of a bottom portion of several cellular vanes 200 of the covering 100 shown in FIG. 1 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating components of a further embodiment of the vane connection system 500’ of the covering 100. Specifically, FIG. 26 illustrates an assembled view of the vane connection system 500’ relative to the cellular vanes 200, while FIG. 27 illustrates a view in which a cord assembly 540 of the system 500’ has been exploded away from the vanes 200 to show certain features of the cord assembly 540.

[0137] As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the illustrated vane connection system 500’ is configured to utilize a cord assembly 540 configured the same as or similar to the cord assembly 540 described above with reference to FIGS. 16-22 together with the vane connection / mounting features described above with reference to FIGS. 23 and 24. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 27, the cord assembly 540 may include a base connection cord 542 and a plurality of cord loops 544 coupled to and extending from the cord 542 at spaced apart locations along the length of the cord 542 (e.g.. as selected based on the desired spacing between adjacent cellular vanes 200 when the vanes 200 are moved to the extended position). Additionally, as show n in FIG. 27, each vane 200 may define a pair of aligned connection openings 214** (only one of which is shown for each vane 200) adjacent to its rear edge 208 and a narrow mounting slot 216** extending from each opening 214** to the rear edge 208 of the vane 200. In such an embodiment, each cord loop 544 may be inserted through the mounting slot 216** of its respective vane 200 such that the loop 544 is received within the aligned connection openings 214** of the vane 200, thereby coupling the cord assembly 540 to the vane 200. For instance, as shown in FIG. 26, the various cord loops 544 may be installed through the respective mounting slots 216** to allow each cord loop to be “looped through” the aligned connection openings 214** of its respective vane 200.

[0138] Referring now to FIGS. 28-30, various view s of another embodiment of a vane hanger 350’ suitable for use within the disclosed mounting system 300 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 28 illustrates aperspective view of the vane hanger 350'. Additionally, FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate top and side views, respectively, of the vane hanger 350’ shown in FIG. 28. Similar to the embodiments described above, the disclosed mounting system 300 may include a plurality of vane hangers 350’, with each hanger 350’ configured to be coupled between a tilt post 320 of an associated carrier assembly 310 and a respective cellular vane 200. As such, each vane hanger 350’ may generally be configured to vertically support its respective vane 200 relative to the rail 302 of the mounting system 300. However, unlike the embodiments described above, the vane hanger 350’ may be configured to be indirectly coupled to its respective vane 200 via a separate connector insert 600 (FIGS. 32 and 33) of the mounting system 300 installed at the top end 202 of the vane 200.

[0139] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the vane hanger 350’ may generally include a central hanger body 352’ having a top end 354’, a bottom end 356’, and opposed first and second sides 358’, 360’ extending vertically between the top and bottom ends 354’, 356’ of the hanger body 352’. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the opposed first and second sides 358’, 360’ of the hanger body 352’ generally taper inwardly as the body 352’ extends vertically between its top and bottom ends 354’, 356’ such that a lower portion of the body 352’ is V-shaped or arrow-shaped. As will be described below with reference to FIGS. 35-37, this tapered profile of the hanger body 352’ may allow for the hanger 350’ to be inserted within (or speared into) the corresponding connector insert 600 (FIGS. 32 and 33) positioned within the interior of the associated cellular vane 200 when installing the vane hanger 350’ relative to the vane 200.

[0140] Additionally, the hanger body 352’ may also include first and second mounting pins 366’. 368’ extending outwardly therefrom at or adjacent to its top end 354’ for coupling the hanger 350’ to a tilt post 320 of an associated carrier assembly 310 of the mounting system 300. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIG. 31, the top end 354’ of the hanger body 352’ may be configured to be inserted within a corresponding portion of the tilt post 320 such that the mounting pins 366’, 368’ are received within pivot openings 322’ (FIG. 31) defined in such portion of the tilt post 320, which may allow the vane hanger 350’ to pivot relative to the tilt post 320.

[0141] Referring still to FIGS. 28-30, the vane hanger 350’ also includes connector wings 370’, 372’ extending outwardly from the top end 354’ of the hanger body 352’ along each respective side 358’, 360’ of the body 352’. Specifically, a first connector wing 370’ extends outwardly from the top end 354’ of the hanger body 352 along the first side 358’ of the body 352’, while a second connector wing 372’ extends outwardly from the top end 354’of the hanger body 352' along the second side 360' of the body 352'. As particularly shown in FIGS. 28 and 30, each connector wing 370', 372' defines a connection slot or channel 373’, 375’, which, as will be described in greater detail below, may be configured to receive a respective feature of the associated connector insert 600 (FIGS. 32 and 33) of the mounting system 300. Specifically, the first connector wing 370’ defines a first vertically oriented connection channel 373', with the bottom of the first connection channel 373’ being defined by a first shoulder 377’ of the connector wing 370’ and the sides of the first connection channel 373’ being defined by corresponding sidewalls 379’ and a backwall 383’ of the first connector wing 370’. Similarly, the second connector wing 372’ defines a second vertically oriented connection channel 375’, with the bottom of the second connection channel 375’ being defined by a second shoulder 385’ of the connector wing 372’ and the sides of the second connection channel 375’ being defined by corresponding sidewalls 387’ and a backw all 389’ of the second connector wing 372’. With such a configuration, each connection channel 373’, 375’ is open in the depthwise direction D along the sides of the connection channels 373’, 375’ opposite the backwalls 383’, 389’ of the connector wings 370’. 372’ to allow corresponding portions of the associated connector insert 600 to be received within the channels 373’, 375’ when installing a vane 200 relative to the hanger 350'. As particularly shown in FIG. 30, each connection channel 373’, 375’ may define a channel width 391’ in the widthwise direction W between the opposed sidewalls 379’, 387’ of the respective wings 370’, 372’ and a channel depth 393’ in the depthwise direction D between the backwall 383’, 389’ of each respective wing 370’, 372’ and the opposed open end of such channel 373’, 375’.

[0142] As particularly shown in FIG. 29, in one embodiment, the tapered profile of the hanger body 352’ may extend outwardly to the extent of the connector wings 370’, 372’ in the depthwise direction D. Specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the tapered sides 358’, 360’of the hanger body 352’ may terminate at the respective shoulders 377', 385' of the connector wings 370’, 372’ such that the tapered profile of the body 352’ transitions directly into the vertical profile of the shoulders 377’. 385'. As will be described below, such a configuration may assist with inserting the vane hanger 350’ into a corresponding connector insert 600 (FIGS. 32 and 33) and may further facilitate flexing the connector insert 600 outw ardly in the depthwise direction D such that corresponding features of the connector insert 600 snap into place within the connection channels 373', 375’ of the wings 370', 372' when the hanger body 352’ is properly positioned relative to the connector insert 600.

[0143] Referring briefly to FIG. 31, a side view of the vane hanger 350’ described above with reference to FIGS. 28-30 as installed relative to a tilt post 320 of an associated carrier assembly 310 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. In general, the tilt post 320 may be configured the same as or similar to the tilt post 320 described above with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. For instance, the tilt post 320 may generally extend lengthwise between a carrier end 324 and a hanger end 326 and may include both a carrier portion 328 and a hanger portion 330, with the carrier portion 328 extending from the carrier end 324 to the hanger portion 330 and the hanger portion 330 extending from the carrier portion 328 to the hanger end 326. As described above, the carrier portion 328 may incorporate or include one or more features (e g., one or more radial projections 332) configured to interact with or engage a corresponding portion of a carrier 312 of a respective carrier assembly 310 of the disclosed mounting system 300 in a manner that allows the tilt post 320 to be rotated about its central axis (which also corresponds to the tilt axis 201 of the associated vane 200) to allow for tilting of the vane 200 coupled thereto (e.g., via the vane hanger 350’).

[0144] Additionally, as described above, the hanger portion 330 of the tilt post 320 may incorporate or include one or more features configured to interact with or engage a corresponding portion of the vane hanger 350’ in a manner that allows hanger 350’ to be coupled to (and vertically supported by) the tilt post 320 such that rotation of the tilt post 320 about its central axis results in corresponding rotation of the vane hanger 350 and the vane 200 coupled thereto. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the hanger portion 350 includes a pair of arcuate hanger tabs 334 (one of which is shown) defining a hanger channel 336 (see FIGS. 13 and 14) therebetween that is configured to receive the top end 354’ of the hanger body 352’ of the vane hanger 350’. Additionally, each hanger tab 334 may define a pivot opening 322’ (one of which is shown in FIG. 31) configured to receive one of the mounting pins 366’, 368’ of the vane hanger 350’ when the top end 354’ of the hanger body 352’ is received within the hanger channel 336 defined by the hanger tabs 334. As shown in FIG. 31, unlike the V-shaped or elongated slots 322 described above with reference to FIGS. 13-15. the pivot openings 322’ are generally circular-shaped for receiving the mounting pins 366’, 368’. However, in other embodiments, the pivot openings 322’ may be configured the same as or similar to the V-shaped slots 322 of FIGS. 13-15.

[0145] Referring now to FIGS. 32 and 33, different views of one embodiment of a connector insert 600 configured for use with the vane hanger 350’ described above withreference to FIGS. 28-31 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view of the connector insert 600 and FIG. 33 illustrates atop view of the connector insert 600 shown in FIG. 32.

[0146] In general, the connector insert 600 includes or is formed by an insert body 602 that defines a closed-perimeter shape substantially matching (or conforming to) the cellular shape or structure defined by each of the vanes 200. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the insert body 602 generally extends in a vertical direction (as indicated by arrow V in FIG. 32) between a top end 604 and a bottom end 606 of the insert 600 and in a widthwise direction (as indicated by arrow W in FIGS. 32 and 33) between a front or first edge 608 and a rear or second edge 610 of the insert 600. In addition, the insert body 602 extends in a depthwise direction (as indicated by arrows D in FIGS. 32 and 33) between a first side 612 and a second side 614 of the insert 600, with the opposed sides 612, 614 extending in the widthwise direction W between the edges 608, 610 of the insert 600. As show n in the illustrated embodiment, the closed-perimeter shape formed by the insert body 602 generally has a first curved profile along the first side 612 of the insert 600 and a second curved profile along the second side 614 of the insert 600, with the curved profiles generally matching the curved profiles of the first and second sides 210, 212 of each vane 200. As such, due to the complementary' cellular structures defines by the connection insert 600 and the vanes 200, the insert 600 may be configured to be inserted and secured within a corresponding vane 200 (e.g.. at or adjacent to the top end 202 of the vane 200) to allow the insert 600 to be utilized as connection structure for coupling the vane hanger 350’ to such vane 200. For instance, as will be described below with reference to FIG. 35, the connector insert 600 may be adhered (e.g., using adhesive tape, glue, etc.) or otherwise secured within the interior of a corresponding vane 200 to couple such components together.

[0147] It should be appreciated that the connector insert 600 may generally be formed from any suitable material that allows it to function as described herein. In several embodiments, the connector insert 600 may be formed from a relatively flexible or springlike material that allows the sides 612, 614 of the insert 600 to be deflected or flexed outwardly (e.g.. in the depthwise direction D) as the vane hanger 350’ is being inserted through or into the connector insert 600 and then snap or return back to its original shape (e.g., the shape shown in FIGS. 32 and 33) once the hanger 350’ is properly positioned relative to the insert 600. For instance, suitable materials may include one or more different polymeric materials.

[0148] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 32 and 33, the connector insert may include first and second connector ribs 616, 618 extending inwardly from the insert body 602 within the interior of the closed-perimeter shape defined by the body 602. Specifically, a first connector rib 616 extends inwardly from the first side 612 of the insert body 602 while a second connector rib 618 extends inwardly from the second side 614 of the insert body 602, with each connector rib 616, 618 being generally centrally located along its respective side 612. 614 between the first and second edges 608. 610 of the insert body 602. As will be described below with reference to FIGS. 35-37, the first and second connector ribs 616, 618 may be configured to be received within the first and second connection channels 373’, 375’ of the vane hanger 350', respectively, when coupling the vane hanger 350’ to the connector insert 600. In this regard, the connector ribs 616, 618 may be appropriately sized or dimensioned to fit within the connection channels 373’, 375’. For instance, each connector rib 616, 618 may define a rib width 620 in the widthwise direction W that is less than (e.g., slightly less than) the channel width 391’ (FIG. 30) defined by each connection channel 373’, 375’ and may define a rib depth 622 in the depthwise direction D (e.g., relative to the inner perimeter of the cellular shape) that is less than (e.g.. slightly less than) the channel depth 393’ (FIG. 30) defined by each connection channel 373’, 375’. In addition, as shown in FIG. 32, each connector rib 616, 618 may define a sloped or ramped surface 624 (only one of which is visible) at or adjacent to the top end 604 of the insert body 502. The ramped surfaces 624 are generally configured to engage / slide against the tapered sides 358’, 360’ of the hanger body 352’ of the vane hanger 350’ as the hanger 350’ is pressed into the connector insert 600. Such engagement helps to facilitate outward flexing of the sides 612, 614 of the connector insert 600 as the shoulders 377', 385' of the connector wings 370’, 372’ of the vane hanger 350’ slide or are moved past the connector ribs 616. 618 during assembly of the hanger / insert. As will be described below, once the shoulders 377’, 385’ clear the connector ribs 616, 618 (e.g., in the vertical direction V), the sides 612, 614 of the connector insert 600 may spring-back inw ardly as the ribs 616, 618 snap into or are otherwise received within the connection channels 373’, 375’ of the vane hanger 350'.

[0149] Referring now to FIGS. 34-37, different perspective view s of the vane hanger 350’ and connector insert 600 described with reference to FIGS. 28-33 as positioned relative to the top end 202 of a cellular vane 200 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 34 illustrates a perspective view of the connector insert 600 exploded away from the top end 202 of the cellular vane 200. while FIG. 35 illustrates the connector insert 600 in an installed or assembled state relative to the top end202 of the vane 200. Additionally, FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective view of the vane hanger 350’ exploded away from the top end 202 of the cellular vane 200 (and the connector insert 600 installed therein), while FIG. 36 illustrates the vane hanger 350’ in an installed or assembled state relative to the top end 202 of the vane 200 and the connector insert 600. Further, FIG. 37 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled vane / insert / hanger shown in FIG. 36 taken about line 37-37, particularly illustrating the engagement or interface between the connector insert 600 and the vane hanger 350’.

[0150] In general, the cellular vane 200 may be configured to be supported by (and suspended from) the vane hanger 350’, with the connector insert 600 providing the connection means or interface between the hanger 350’ and the vane 200. Thus, in several embodiments, the connector insert 600 may be configured to be initially installed within the vane 200 prior to assembling the hanger 350’ relative thereto. As described above reference to FIGS. 32 and 33, the connector insert 600 may generally define a closed-perimeter shape that substantially matches (or conforms to) the cellular shape or structure defined by the vane 200. Specifically, the curved profile of the first side 612 of the insert 600 may generally match the curved profile of the first side 210 of the cellular vane 200. while the curved profile of the second side 614 of the insert 600 may generally match the curved profile of the second side 212 of the cellular vane 200. Thus, as show n in the transition from FIG. 34 to FIG. 35, the connector insert 600 may be configured to be inserted within the interior of the cellular vane 200 at its top end 202 such that the curved sides 612, 614 of the insert 600 generally engage against or are positioned flush against the curved sides 210, 212 of the vane 200 along the interior of the cellular vane structure. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the edges 608, 610 of the connector insert 600 may be rounded-off relative to the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200 (and / or the sides 612, 614 of the connector insert 600 may be shortened relative to the sides 210, 212 of the vane 200) such that the edges 608, 610 of the insert 600 are spaced inwardly from the edges 206, 208 of the vane 200 when the insert 600 is installed relative to the vane 200. As particularly shown in FIG. 35, such inward spacing of the insert edges 608, 610 relative to the vane edges 206, 208 may provide a widthwise gap 630 for receiving the joint flanges 238 of the vane 200.

[0151] It should be appreciated that the connector insert 600 may be secured within the vane 200 using any suitable attachment method / means. For instance, in several embodiments, the connector insert 600 may be adhered to the interior of the vane 200. As an example, a double-sided adhesive tape (e.g.. tape 640 shown in FIG. 37) may be applied around the outer perimeter of the connector insert 600 (e.g., along the curved sides 612, 614of the insert 600). The insert 600 may then be installed within the vane 200 at its top end 202 and secured thereto by pressing the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200 inwardly into the sides 612, 614 of the insert 600 to ensure proper adhesion. In other embodiments, various other suitable types of attachment means / methods may be used to secure the insert 600 within the vane 200. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the connector insert 600 may be configured to be installed relative to the top end 202 of the vane 200 at any suitable location. For instance, as particularly shown in FIG. 37. in one embodiment, the connector insert 600 may be installed within the vane 200 such that the top end 604 of the connector insert 600 is recessed relative to or otherwise positioned below the top end 202 of the vane 200, such as a small offset or recess distance 632. In such an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 37, the vane hanger 350’ (e.g., the top ends of the connector wings 370’, 372’) may similarly be offset or recessed relative to the top end 202 of the vane 200 In other embodiments, the connector insert 600 may be installed within the cellular vane 200 such that the top end 604 of the insert 600 is positioned flush to the top end 202 of the vane 200.

[0152] Referring specifically to FIGS. 35-37. with the connector insert 600 installed within the cellular vane 200, the vane hanger 350’ may be configured to be installed relative to the vane / insert. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 35-37, the vane hanger 250’ is illustrated by itself for purposes of illustration. However, it should be appreciated that the vane hanger 350’ may already be assembled onto a portion of its associated carrier assembly 310 (e.g., by being coupled to and supported by the hanger portion 330 of the respective tilt post 320) prior to installing the hanger 350’ relative to the vane / insert.

[0153] To install the hanger 350’ relative to the vane / insert, the vane / insert and the hanger 350’ may be positioned relative to each other such that the connector ribs 616, 618 of the insert 600 are generally vertically aligned with the corresponding tapered sides 358’, 360’ of the hanger 350’ (and the corresponding connection channels 373’, 375’ of the wings 370’, 372’ of the hanger 350’), thereby allowing the vane / insert to be assembled onto the hanger 350’ (or vice versa) by simply moving the top end 202 of the vane 200 vertically relative to the hanger 350’ (or vice versa) until the connector ribs 616, 618 are received within the corresponding connection channels 373’, 375’ of the hanger 350’. Specifically, as the top end 202 of the vane 200 is moved vertically relative to the hanger 350’ (or vice versa) such that the hanger 350’ initially begins to be received within the vane / insert, the tapered sides 358’, 360’ of the hanger 350’ may initially contact the ramped surfaces 624 of the connector ribs 616, 618. Further pressing of the vane / insert and the hanger 350’ together (or further insertion of the hanger 250’ within the vane / insert) results in the sides612, 614 of the insert 600 (and, thus, the sides 210. 212 of the vane 200) being flexed outwardly as the shoulder 377’. 385’ of each connector wing 370’. 372’ transitions from the ramped surface 624 of each connector rib 616, 618 to the non-ramped, vertically oriented surface thereof. Once the shoulders 377’, 385’ of the connector wings 370’, 372’ clear the bottom ends of the respective connector ribs 616, 618, the ribs 616, 618 may snap into or otherwise be received within the connection channels 373’, 375’ as the sides 612, 614 of the insert 600 (and, thus, the sides 210. 212 of the vane 200) spring back inwardly. For instance, as shown in FIG. 37, when in the installed state, the connector ribs 616, 618 may be positioned within the connection channels 373’, 375’ of the hanger 350’, with the shoulders 377’, 385’ of the connector wings 370', 372’ (i.e., as the bottom ends of the connection channels 373’, 375’) functioning as vertical stops or engagement structure to vertically support the vane / insert relative to the hanger 350’.

[0154] It should be appreciated that, when disassembling the hanger 350’ relative to the vane / insert, the insert 600 may be configured to be flexed outwardly to allow the connection ribs 616, 618 to clear the shoulders 377’, 385’ of the connector wings 370’, 372’ of the hanger 350’. Specifically, a user may press inwardly against the opposed edges 608. 610 of the connector insert 600 (e.g., by pressing inwardly along the opposed edges 206, 208 of the vane 200 at its top end 200) to force the sides 612, 614 of the connector insert 600 outwardly away from each other until the connector ribs 616, 618 are no longer positioned within the connection channels 373’, 375’. At such point, with the ribs 616, 618 clear of the shoulders 377’, 385’ in the depthwise direction D, the vane / insert may be shifted downw ardly relative to the hanger 350’ to disassemble the vane / insert therefrom.

[0155] Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, different views of another embodiment of a connector insert 600’ configured for use with the vane hanger 350’ described above with reference to FIGS. 28-31 are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG. 38 illustrates a perspective view of the connector insert 600’ and FIG. 39 illustrates atop view of the connector insert 600’ shown in FIG. 38. FIG. 39 also illustrates the outer profile or perimeter of a cellular vane 200 (i.e., in dashed lines) to show the positioning of the insert 600’ within the vane 200.

[0156] In general, the connector insert 600’ is configured similarly to the connector insert 600 described above with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. For instance, the connector insert 600’ includes or is fonned by an insert body 602’, with the insert body 602’ generally- extending in a vertical direction (as indicated by arrow V in FIG. 38) between a top end 604’ and a bottom end 606’ and in a widthwise direction (as indicated by arrow W in FIGS.38 and 39) between a front or first edge 608’ and a rear or second edge 610’. In addition, the insert body 602’ extends in a depthwise direction (as indicated by arrows D in FIGS. 38 and 39) between a first side 612’ and a second side 614’ of the insert 600’, with the insert body 602’ generally defining a first curved profile along the first side 612’ of the insert 600’ and a second curved profile along the second side 614' of the insert 600’. In this regard, the connector insert 600’ may generally be assembled relative to and / or secured within a corresponding vane 200 in the same manner as that described above, such as by adhering the insert 600’ within the vane 200 using adhesive tape or any other suitable means.

[0157] Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, the connector insert 600’ may include first and second connector ribs 616’, 618’, with the first connector rib 616’ extending inwardly from the first side 612’ of the insert body 602’ and the second connector rib 618’ extending inwardly from the second side 614’ of the insert body 602’. Similar to the connector ribs 616, 618 of the insert 600 described above with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33, the first and second connector ribs 616', 618' may be configured to be received within the first and second connection channels 373’, 375’ of the vane hanger 350’, respectively, when coupling the vane hanger 350’ to the connector insert 600. In this regard, the connector ribs 616’, 618’ may be appropriately sized or dimensioned to fit within the connection channels 373’, 375’. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 38, each connector rib 616’, 618' may define a sloped or ramped surface 624' (only one of which is visible) at or adjacent to the top end 604’ of the insert body 502’ that is configured to engage / slide against the tapered sides 358’, 360’ of the hanger body 352’ of the vane hanger 350’ as the hanger 350’ is pressed into the connector insert 600’. In this regard, the connector insert 600’ may generally be assembled relative to the vane hanger 350’ in the same manner as that described above.

[0158] However, unlike the embodiment of the connector insert 600 described above with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33, the connector insert 600’ shown in FIGS. 38 and 39 further includes first and second pairs of aligned structural ribs 650’, 652’. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 39. the connector insert 600’ includes a first pair of structural ribs 650' extending inwardly from the opposed sides 612’. 614’ of the insert 600’ along a first side of the connector ribs 616’, 618’ and a second pair of structural ribs 652’ extending inw ardly from the opposed sides 612’, 614’ of the insert 600’ along a second side of the connector ribs 616’, 618’. In general, these internal ribs 650', 652' may be configured to provide additional structure or rigidity’ to the insert 600’ when securing or adhering the insert 600’ within a corresponding vane 200. Specifically, as noted above, the connector insert 600’may be adhered within a vane 200 by applying a double-sided adhesive tape (e.g., tape 640 shown in FIG. 37) along the sides 612’, 614’ of the insert 600’, installing the insert 600’ within the vane 200 at its top end 202, and then pressing the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200 inwardly into the sides 612’, 614’ of the insert 600’ to ensure proper adhesion. In doing so, each rib within the opposed pairs of structural ribs 650’, 652’ (along with each connector rib of the pair of connector ribs 616’. 618’) may be configured to contact the opposed rib of such pair when compressing the sides of the vane / insert together, thereby providing some rigidity across the compressed connector insert 600’ for adhering the sides 612’ 614’ of the insert 600’ to the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200.

[0159] Moreover, unlike the embodiment of the connector insert 600 described above with reference to FIGS. 32 and 33. the outer profile or shape of the connector insert 600’ shown in FIGS. 38 and 39 has been modified to create a more inwardly tapered profile as the insert 600’ extends in the widthwise direction W towards its opposed edges 608’, 610’. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 39, the outer profile or shape of the connector insert 600’ includes a central non-tapered section 660’ (e g., encompassing the portions of the sides 612’ 614’ of the insert 600’ that are aligned with the various ribs in the depthwise direction D) and first and second tapered sections 662’, 664’ extending from the central non-tapered section 660’ to the opposed first and second edges 608’, 610’, respectively. In such an embodiment, the portions of the sides 612’ 614’ of the insert 600’ extending along the central non-tapered section 660’ may generally be configured to define the interface at which the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200 are adhered to the insert 600’. In contrast, due to their inwardly tapered profile, the first and second tapered sections 662’, 664’ may be spaced inw ardly apart from the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200 as each section extends towards its respective edges 608’, 610’ of the insert 600’. Such inward spacing of the outer extents or sections 662’, 664’ of the connector insert 600’ relative to the sides 206, 208 of the vane 200 may help to prevent shadow s across the top end 202 of the vane 200 when the insert 600’ is installed therein.

[0160] While the foregoing Detailed Description and drawings represent various embodiments, it will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter. Each example is provided by w ay of explanation without intent to limit the broad concepts of the present subject matter. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components, withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles of the present subject matter. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, the size or dimensions of the elements may be varied. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the present subject matter being indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.

[0161] In the foregoing Detailed 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” element, as used herein, refers to one or more of that element. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, cross-wise, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, and / or the like) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of the present subject matter, and / or serve to distinguish regions of the associated elements from one another, and do not limit the associated element, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the present subject matter. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, secured, mounted and / or the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members betw een a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0162] All apparatuses and methods disclosed herein are examples of apparatuses and / or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of the presentsubject matter. These examples are not the only way to implement these principles but are merely examples. Thus, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings must be appreciated as references to examples of embodiments of the present subject matter, and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific elements, structures, or features illustrated. Other examples of manners of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

[0163] This written description uses examples to disclose the present subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the present subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

[0164] The following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the claims, the term “comprises / comprising” does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements or method steps may be implemented by. e.g., a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly advantageously be combined, and the inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. The terms “a”, 'an", “first’ ’, “second”, etc., do not preclude a plurality. Reference signs in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cellular vane for a covering for an architectural structure, the cellular vane comprising: a vane body defining a cellular structure, the vane body comprising first and second ends, the vane body further comprising a first fold edge and first and second joint fold edges formed between the first and second ends such that the vane body includes a plurality of wall segments, the plurality of wall segments comprising a first base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the first joint fold edge, a second base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the second joint fold edge, a first joint wall segment extending between the first joint fold edge and the first end of the vane body, and a second joint wall segment extending between the second joint fold edge and the second end of the vane body; wherein: the cellular structure has a first curved profile defined by the first base wall segment that extends along a first side of the cellular structure and a second curved profile defined by the second base wall segment that extends along a second side of the cellular structure; and the first and second joint wall segments are coupled to each other and extend into an interior of the cellular structure.

2. The cellular vane of claim 1, wherein the cellular structure includes a first edge and a second edge, with the first and second sides of the cellular structure extending between the first and second edges of the cellular structure.

3. The cellular vane of claim 2, wherein the first and second joint wall segments extend inwardly from one of the first edge or the second edge into the interior of the cellular structure such that gaps are defined between the first and second joint wall segments and an inner perimeter of the cellular structure defined by the first and second base wall segments4. The cellular vane of claim 3, wherein light passing through one of the first side or the second side of the cellular structure is diffused across the gap defined between the one of the first side of the second side of the cellular structure and the first and second joint wall segments.

5. The cellular vane of claim 2, wherein a width wise centerline of the cellular structure extends between the first and second edges of the cellular structure, and wherein a joint interface defined between the first and second joint wall segments extends along the widthwise centerline.

6. The cellular vane of claim 2, wherein the first fold edge of the vane body forms the first edge of the cellular structure and the first and second joint fold edges form the second edge of the cellular structure.

7. The cellular vane of claim 2, wherein the first fold edge defines a first fold angle and the first and second joint fold edges define a second fold angle, the second fold angle being equal to substantially half of the first fold angle.

8. The cellular vane of claim 2, wherein a material forming the vane body is heat-stabilized at the first and second edges of the cellular structure.

9. The cellular vane of claim 1, wherein the first and second joint wall segments are coupled together to form a flange joint within the interior of the cellular structure.

10. The cellular vane of claim 9, wherein the flange joint is spaced apart from the first and second sides of the cellular structure such that gaps are defined between the flange joint and each of the first and second base wall segments11. The cellular vane of claim 1, wherein the vane body forms part of a laminated assembly, the laminated assembly including a vane cover laminated to the vane body such that the vane body forms an inner layer of the laminated assembly and the vane cover forms an outer layer of the laminated assembly.

12. The cellular vane of claim 11, wherein the vane cover is formed from a fabric material and the vane body is formed from a film material.

13. The cellular vane of claim 1, wherein a shape of the cellular structure is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical about at least one centerline of the cellular vane.

14. A covering for an architectural structure including a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes being configured in accordance with the cellular vane of any of claims 1 through 13.

15. A cellular vane for a covering for an architectural structure, the cellular vane comprising: a vane body defining a cellular structure, the vane body comprising first and second ends, the vane body further comprising a first fold edge and first and second joint fold edges formed between the first and second ends such that the vane body includes a plurality of wall segments, the plurality of wall segments comprising a first base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the first joint fold edge, a second base wall segment extending between the first fold edge and the second joint fold edge, a first jointwall segment extending between the first joint fold edge and the first end of the vane body, and a second joint wall segment extending between the second joint fold edge and the second end of the vane body; wherein: the cellular structure has a first curved profile defined by the first base wall segment that extends along a first side of the cellular structure and a second curved profile defined by the second base wall segment that extends along a second side of the cellular structure; the first and second joint wall segments are coupled to each other to form a flange joint extending into an interior of the cellular structure; and the flange joint is spaced apart from the first and second sides of the cellular structure such that gaps are defined between the flange joint and each of the first and second base wall segments.

16. The cellular vane of claim 15, wherein light passing through one of the first side or the second side of the cellular structure is diffused across the gap defined between the one of the first side of the second side of the cellular structure and the flange joint.

17. The cellular vane of claim 15. wherein the cellular structure includes a first edge and a second edge, with the first and second sides of the cellular structure extending between the first and second edges of the cellular structure.

18. The cellular vane of claim 17, wherein a widthwise centerline of the cellular structure extends between the first and second edges, the flange joint extending along the widthwise centerline.

19. The cellular vane of claiml7, wherein the first fold edge of the vane body forms the first edge of the cellular structure and the first and second joint fold edges form the second edge of the cellular structure.

20. The cellular vane of claim 17. wherein the first fold edge defines a first fold angle and the first and second joint fold edges define a second fold angle, the second fold angle being equal to substantially half of the first fold angle.

21. The cellular vane of claim 17, wherein a material forming the vane body is heat-stabilized at the first and second edges of the cellular structure.

22. The cellular vane of claim 15, wherein the vane body forms part of a laminated assembly, the laminated assembly including a vane cover laminated to the vanebody such that the vane body forms an inner layer of the laminated assembly and the vane cover forms an outer layer of the laminated assembly.

23. The cellular vane of claim 22. wherein the vane cover is formed from a fabric material and the vane body is formed from a film material.

24. The cellular vane of claim 15, wherein a shape of the cellular structure is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical about at least one centerline of the cellular vane.

25. A covering for an architectural structure including a plurality of cellular vanes, with each cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes being configured in accordance with the cellular vane of any of claims 15 through 24.

26. A covering for an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a plurality of cellular vanes, each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure, the cellular structure including first and second sides extending between opposed first and second edges of the cellular structure; a mounting system configured to support the plurality' of cellular vanes relative to the architectural structure, the mounting system comprising: a rail; a plurality of carrier assemblies supported by the rail; and a plurality of vane hangers, each vane hanger being coupled between a respective carrier assembly of the plurality of carrier assemblies and a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes, each vane hanger comprising a hanger body and first and second connector wings extending along opposed sides of the hanger body, each vane hanger further comprising first and second vane posts extending inwardly from the first and second connector wings, respectively, towards the hanger body; wherein, when each vane hanger is assembled relative to the respective cellular vane: the first and second connector wings are positioned exterior to the respective cellular vane and extend along the first and second sides of the cellular structure, respectively, and the hanger body is at least partially received within an interior of the respective cellular vane; and each of the first and second vane posts is received within a respective mounting opening defined through a portion of the respective cellular vane.

27. The covering of claim 26, wherein each vane hanger is coupled to the respective cellular vane such that a top end of the hanger body is positioned flush with or recessed below the top end of the respective cellular vane.

28. The covering of claim 27, wherein the respective cellular vane defines a mounting slot along each of the first and second sides of the cellular structure at the top end of the respective cellular vane, wherein respective portions of the hanger body are received within the mounting slots such that the top end of the hanger body is positioned flush with or recessed below the top end of the respective cellular vane.

29. The covering of claim 26, wherein the first and second connector w ings are spaced apart from the hanger body such that a vane slot is defined between the hanger body and each of the first and second connector wings, wherein portions of the first and second sides of the cellular structure are received within the vane slots when the vane hanger is assembled relative to the respective cellular vane.

30. The covering of claim 26, wherein a pivotable connection is provided between the first and second vane posts and the respective cellular vane to allow the respective cellular vane to pivot relative to the vane hanger.31 . The covering of claim 26, wherein each carrier assembly comprises a carrier positioned within the rail and a tilt post coupled to the carrier for rotation about an axis, the tilt post being pivotably coupled to a respective vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers.

32. The covering of claim 31, wherein the tilt post defines a pair of pivot slots configured to receive a pair of corresponding mounting posts of the respective vane hanger to allows the respective vane hanger to pivot relative to the tilt post.

33. The covering of claim 32, wherein each pivot slot of the pair of pivot slots is V-shaped.

34. The covering of claim 26. wherein each of the first and second vane posts includes a retention lip configured to retain the respective cellular vane relative to the vane hanger.

35. A covering for an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a plurality of cellular vanes, each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure, the cellular structure including first and second sides extending between opposed first and second edges of the cellular structure;a mounting system configured to support the plurality' of cellular vanes relative to the architectural structure, the mounting system comprising: a rail; a plurality of carrier assemblies supported by the rail; a plurality of vane hangers; and a plurality of connector inserts, each connector insert of the plurality of inserts being positioned within an interior of the cellular structure of a respective vane at or adjacent to the top end of said respective vane of the plurality of cellular vanes; wherein: each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers is coupled between a respective carrier assembly of the plurality’ of carrier assemblies and a respective connector insert of the plurality of connector inserts; and each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers is configured to engage portions of the respective connector insert to vertically support the respective connector insert relative to the respective carrier assembly.

36. The covering of claim 35, w herein each connector insert of the plurality of connector inserts includes first and second connector ribs, each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers being configured to engage the first and second connector ribs of the respective connector insert.

37. The covering of claim 36, wherein each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers comprises a hanger body and first and second connector yvings extending along opposed sides of the hanger body, the first and second connector wings defining first and second connection channels, respectively, the first and second connector ribs of the respective connector insert configured to be received within the first and second connection channels, respectively.

38. The covering of clam 37, wherein the first and second connector wings further include first and second shoulders defining the bottom ends of the first and second connection channels, respectively, the respective connector insert configured to be vertically supported by the first and second shoulders when the first and second connector ribs of the respective connector insert are received yvithin the first and second connection channels, respectively.

39. The covering of claim 37, wherein each of the first and second connector wings defines a ramped surface, the ramped surface of the first and second connector wings being configured to engage corresponding tapered surfaces of the opposed sides of the hanger body when the vane hanger is inserted within an interior of the respective connector insert.

40. The covering of claim 35, wherein each connector insert of the plurality of connector inserts includes an insert body, the insert body including first and second sides extending between first and second edges of the insert body, the first side of the insert body defining a curved profile that substantially matches a curved profile of the first side of the respective cellular vane, the second side of the insert body defining a curved profile that substantially matches a curved profile of the second side of the respective cellular vane.

41. The covering of claim 40, wherein the first and second sides of the insert body are attached to the first and second sides of the respective cellular vane, respectively, within the interior of the respective cellular vane.

42. The covering of claim 40, wherein the first and second sides of the insert body are adhesively attached to the first and second sides of the respective cellular vane, respectively.

43. The covering of claim 35, wherein each connector insert of the plurality of connector inserts defines a cellular structure that is complementary to the cellular structure defined by the respective cellular vane such that the connector insert is configured to be inserted within the interior of the cellular vane.

44. The covering of claim 35, wherein each vane hanger of the plurality of vane hangers and the respective connector insert are recessed relative to the top end of the respective cellular vane when installed relative to the respective cellular vane.

45. A covering for an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a plurality of cellular vanes, each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure; a vane connection system coupling the plurality of cellular vanes together, the vane connection system comprising: a plurality of connector clips, each connector clip being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes; anda cord assembly comprising a base cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality of cellular vanes and a plurality of cord loops extending from the base cord, each cord loop of the cord assembly being coupled to a respective connector clip of the plurality of connector clips.

46. The covering of claim 35, wherein the respective cellular vane defines a connection slot along one of a first edge or a second edge of the cellular structure adjacent to the bottom end of the respective cellular vane, each connector clip being configured to be installed within the connection slot of the respective cellular vane.

47. The covering of claim 35, wherein each connector clip includes a clip body extending between an insertion end and a slot end, the insertion end configured to be positioned within an interior of the cellular structure of the respective cellular vane and the slot end configured to be positioned exterior to the cellular structure of the respective cellular vane.

48. The covering of claim 37, wherein the slot end of the clip body defines a cord slot configured to receive the base cord of the cord assembly.

49. The covering of claim 37. wherein the clip body incorporate a loop clip configured to receive a respective cord loop of the cord assembly.

50. The covering of claim 39, wherein the loop clip includes a clip arm spaced apart from the clip body such that a loop cavity is defined therebetween for receiving the respective cord loop, the clip arm being configured to flex relative to the clip body to allow the respective cord loop to be received within the loop cavity.

51. The covering of claim 37, wherein each connector clip further includes a pair of spring arms extending outwardly from the clip body, the spring arms being configured to flex inwardly towards the clip body as the insertion end is being inserted into the interior of the cellular structure and spnng outwardly away from the clip body once the spring arms are positioned within the interior of the cellular structure.

52. The covering of claim 35, wherein each connector clip is configured to be coupled to the bottom end of the respective cellular vane.

53. A covering for an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a plurality of cellular vanes, each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure;a vane connection system coupling the plurality of cellular vanes together, the vane connection system comprising: a plurality of connector clips, each connector clip being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes; and a connection cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality of cellular vanes, wherein the plurality of connector clips are coupled to the connection cord at spaced apart locations along a length of the connection cord.

54. The covering of claim 53, wherein each connector clip is coupled to the respective cellular vane at or adjacent to the bottom end of the respective cellular vane.

55. The covering of claim 53, wherein the respective cellular vane defines a mounting slot along one of a first edge or a second edge of the cellular structure and a pair of aligned openings connected with the mounting slot, each connector clip being configured to be inserted through the mounting slot and received within the pair of aligned openings to couple the connector clip to the respective cellular vane.

56. The covering of claim 55. wherein each connector clip includes a looped portion configured to be received within the pair of aligned openings.

57. A covering for an architectural structure, the covering comprising: a plurality of cellular vanes, each cellular vane extending lengthwise between a top end and a bottom end and defining a cellular structure; a vane connection system coupling the plurality' of cellular vanes together, the vane connection system comprising a connection cord extending between adjacent cellular vanes of the plurality' of cellular vanes and a plurality of loops coupled to the connection cord, each loop of the plurality of loops being coupled to a respective cellular vane of the plurality of cellular vanes; wherein: the respective cellular vane defines a mounting slot along one of a first edge or a second edge of the cellular structure and a pair of aligned openings connected with the mounting slot; each loop of the plurality of loops is configured to be inserted through the mounting slot and received within the pair of aligned openings to couple the connection cord to the respective cellular vane.

58. The covering of claim 57, wherein the plurality of loops comprise a plurality of cord loops extending from the connection cord, the plurality of loops and the connection cord forming a cord assembly.

59. The covering of claim 57, wherein each of the plurality of loops is formed by a looped portion of a connection clip coupled to the connection cord.

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