Tilt wand for use in an architectural-structure covering

Abstract

A tilt wand arranged and configured to be used with an architectural-structure covering to move (e.g., tilt or rotate) the covering between opened and closed configurations. The architectural-structure covering includes a headrail assembly including a tilt rod assembly having a tilt rod and a covering moveable between opened and closed configurations. The tilt wand includes an upper wand portion, a lower wand portion, and an output drive shaft, wherein the output drive shaft is selectively coupled to the tilt rod assembly and wherein movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

Description

TILT WAND FOR USE IN AN ARCHITECTURAL-STRUCTURE COVERINGCROSS-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 / 666,403, fded July 1, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to architectural-structure coverings, and more particularly, to a tilt wand used to move (e.g., tilt, rotate, etc.) the covering between opened and closed configurations (e.g., a closed-up configuration and a closed-down configuration).BACKGROUND

[0003] Architectural-structure coverings may selectively cover an architectural opening and / or structure (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit), such as windows, doors, archways, portions of a wall, and the like. Architectural -structure coverings have taken numerous forms for many years. Some architectural-structure coverings include coverings, for example, honeycombs or cellular shades, roller blinds, vertical blinds, wood blinds, Roman shades, etc. In use, the covering is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the covering may be extendable or retractable (e.g., able to be lowered or raised, respectively, in a vertical direction) between an extended position and a retracted position for obscuring and exposing the underlying architectural structure.

[0004] In addition, and / or alternatively, in some examples, the covering may be movable between an opened configuration and one or more closed configurations (e.g., a closed-up configuration and a closed-down configuration). That is, for example, the covering may include a plurality of slats. In use, the angle of the slats may be adjusted. For example, the architecturestructure covering may include a headrail, which encases a tilt rod assembly including, inter alia, a tilt rod or shaft. In use, in some examples, the angle of the slats can be adjusted between the opened and closed configurations by rotating the tilt rod via, for example, manipulation of a tilt cord. For example, a user can manipulate or move the tilt cord to rotate the tilt rod, which causes the slats to move between the opened and closed configurations.

[0005] As will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, in the opened configuration, the covering (e.g., slats) is rotated, pivoted, tilted, etc. (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) so that view through the covering is possible, while in the closed configurations, the covering (e.g., slats) is rotated relative to each other to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit, a view through the covering. Thus, in use, an end user may manipulate the tilt cord to rotate the tilt rod in order to adjust the configuration of the covering. That is, with the covering in the extended position, a user can manipulate the tilt cord to rotate the covering to substantially block the view through the covering. By controlling the rotation of the covering in the extended position and by moving the covering between the extended and retracted positions, the user can control the view through the covering and hence, as applied to coverings or windows, the user is able to vary the amount of natural light permitted to enter, for example, the room via the window by adjusting the angular position of the covering.

[0006] In recent years, various government regulations have been put in place and / or have been proposed to address access to and manipulation of tilt cords. For example, regulations arecurrently proposed that define limits or thresholds related to the user’s ability to manipulate or access such tilt cords. One option that has been disclosed to address this issue is to provide a device that selectively encases or encloses an accessible portion of the tilt cord. However, to date, proposed solutions suffer from one or more disadvantages including, for example, making manipulation of the tilt cord difficult and burdensome on the user.

[0007] It is with respect to these and other considerations that the present improvements may be useful.SUMMARY

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary 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.

[0009] Disclosed herein is an architectural-structure covering. The architectural-structure covering includes a covering movable between opened and closed configurations. The architecture- structure covering may also include a headrail and a rotatable member (e.g., a tilt rod) positioned within the headrail and associated with, or coupled to, the covering. In use, manipulation of the tilt rod moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0010] In addition, the architectural-structure covering includes a tilt wand.

[0011] In any preceding or subsequent example, the covering may also be moveable between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0012] An architectural -structure covering is disclosed. The architectural -structure covering includes a headrail assembly including a tilt rod assembly having a tilt rod, a covering moveable between opened and closed configurations, and a tilt wand. In some examples, the tilt wand includes an upper wand portion, a lower wand portion, and an output drive shaft, wherein the output drive shaft is selectively coupled to the tilt rod assembly and wherein, when the tilt wand is coupled to the tilt rod assembly, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0013] In any preceding or subsequent example, the output drive shaft includes a first coupling feature and the tilt rod assembly includes a drive shaft including a first end and a second end, the first end including a second coupling feature configured to be coupled to the first coupling feature, the second end including a first gear arranged and configured to interact with a second gear on the tilt rod.

[0014] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first and second gears are selected from one of a worm gear, a helical gear, or a combination thereof.

[0015] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the second coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

[0016] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first coupling feature is an external hex drive and the second coupling feature is a bore arranged and configured to receive the external hex drive.

[0017] In any preceding or subsequent example, the second coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the first coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

[0018] In any preceding or subsequent example, the architectural -structure covering further includes a housing positioned within the headrail assembly, the housing containing the drive shaft and the first and second gears.

[0019] In any preceding or subsequent example, the housing includes a nub extending therefrom, the nub including a first key arranged and configured to interact with a second key formed on the wand so that, in use, alignment of the first and second keys selectively couples the wand to the housing.

[0020] In any preceding or subsequent example, the housing includes a spring-loaded plunger arranged and configured to interact with the wand to secure the wand in a vertical position when the wand is fully coupled to the housing.

[0021] In any preceding or subsequent example, the housing includes a magnetic element arranged and configured to interact with a magnetic element on the wand to secure the wand in a vertical position when the wand is fully coupled to the housing.

[0022] In any preceding or subsequent example, the tilt wand further includes first and second tilt cords extending from a cord spool associated with the output drive shaft, wherein movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion causes the first and second tilt cords to wind or unwind from the spool depending on a direction of movement of the lower wand portion.

[0023] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool to a bottom end of the lower wand portion and the second tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool, wraps around a bottom end of the upper wand portion, and extends upwardly to a top end of the lower wand portion creating an overlapped cord section within the tilt wand across which the second tilt cord vertically overlaps itself and movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion changes a vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord.

[0024] In any preceding or subsequent example, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion moves the first and second tilt cords about a spool, which rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and hence the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0025] In any preceding or subsequent example, the architectural -structure covering further includes a bottom cap coupled to a lower end of the lower wand portion, the bottom cap including a screw rotatably coupled thereto, wherein the first tilt cord is coupled to the screw so that rotation of the screw relative to the bottom cap tensions the tilt cord.

[0026] In any preceding or subsequent example, a portion of the upper wand portion is received within the lower wand portion so that the lower wand portion is telescopic relative to the upper wand portion.

[0027] In any preceding or subsequent example, the covering is also movable between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0028] In any preceding or subsequent example, the covering includes a plurality of slats, the plurality of slats being tiltable to vary their angle between opened and closed configurations.

[0029] A tilt wand is also disclosed. The tilt wand being arranged and configured to be used with an architectural-structure covering, the architectural-structure covering including a headrail assembly including a tilt rod assembly having a tilt rod and a covering moveable between opened and closed configurations. In some examples, the tilt wand includes an upper wand portion, a lower wand portion, and an output drive shaft, wherein the output drive shaft is selectively coupled to the tilt rod assembly and wherein, when the tilt wand is coupled to the tilt rod assembly, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0030] In any preceding or subsequent example, the output drive shaft includes a first coupling feature and the tilt rod assembly includes a drive shaft including a first end and a second end, the first end including a second coupling feature configured to be coupled to the first coupling feature, the second end including a first gear arranged and configured to interact with a second gear on the tilt rod.

[0031] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first and second gears are selected from one of a worm gear, a helical gear, or a combination thereof.

[0032] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the second coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

[0033] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first coupling feature is an external hex drive and the second coupling feature is a bore arranged and configured to receive the external hex drive.

[0034] In any preceding or subsequent example, the second coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the first coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

[0035] In any preceding or subsequent example, the tilt wand further includes first and second tilt cords extending from a cord spool associated with the output drive shaft and movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion causes the first and second tilt cords to wind or unwind from the spool depending on a direction of movement of the lower wand portion.

[0036] In any preceding or subsequent example, the first tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool to a bottom end of the lower wand portion and the second tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool, wraps around a bottom end of the upper wand portion, and extends upwardly to a top end of the lower wand portion creating an overlapped cord section within the tilt wand across which the second tilt cord vertically overlaps itself and movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion changes a vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord.

[0037] In any preceding or subsequent example, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion moves the first and second tilt cords about a spool, which rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and hence the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0038] In any preceding or subsequent example, a portion of the upper wand portion is received within the lower wand portion so that the lower wand portion is telescopic relative to the upper wand portion.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] FIG. 1A is a perspective view illustrating an example of an architectural -structure covering including a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., closed-up configuration);

[0040] FIG. IB is a perspective view illustrating the architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 1A, the covering shown in an opened configuration;

[0041] FIG. 1C is a perspective view illustrating the architectural-structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 1A, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., closed-down configuration);

[0042] FIG. ID is a cross-sectional view illustrating the architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. IB, the covering shown in the opened configuration;

[0043] FIG. 2A is a perspective view illustrating an example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the tilt wand may be used in connection the architectural -structure covering shown in FIG. 1A;

[0044] FIG. 2B is an alternate perspective view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 2A;

[0045] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 2A;

[0046] FIG. 2D is another cross-sectional view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 2A, particularly illustrating the routing or paths of cords extending within the tilt wand;

[0047] FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of an alternate example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the tilt wand including an alternate embodiment of a bottom cap;

[0048] FIG. 2F is an alternate, detailed cross-sectional view of the bottom cap shown in FIG. 2E within circle 2F;

[0049] FIG. 2G is a perspective view of the bottom cap shown in FIG. 2E;

[0050] FIG. 2H is a cross-sectional view of the bottom cap shown in FIG. 2E;

[0051] FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the bottom cap shown in FIG. 2E;

[0052] FIG. 2J is a perspective view of an example of a screw used in the bottom cap shown in FIG. 2E;

[0053] FIG. 2K is a side view of the screw shown in FIG. 2J;

[0054] FIG. 2L is a detailed, perspective view of an alternate example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the tilt wand including an alternate example of a top cap;

[0055] FIG. 2M is a perspective view of the top cap shown in FIG. 2L;

[0056] FIG. 2N is a cross-sectional view of the tilt wand and the top cap shown in FIG. 2L;

[0057] FIG. 20 is an alternate, detailed cross-sectional view of the tilt wand and the top cap shown in FIG. 2L;

[0058] FIG. 3A is a detailed, perspective view illustrating the architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 1A;

[0059] FIGS. 3B-3F illustrate various detailed views of an example of a coupling mechanism for coupling the tilt wand and the architectural -structure covering in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, FIGS. 3B-3F illustrating portions of the headrail and the tilt wand transparent and / or removed for clarity;

[0060] FIG. 4A is an alternate perspective view illustrating the architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 1A, the tilt wand illustrated in an unlocked configuration;

[0061] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of an example of a housing in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the housing enabling the wand to be selectively coupled and decoupled therefrom;

[0062] FIG. 4C is a front view of the housing shown in FIG. 4B;

[0063] FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of the housing shown in FIG. 4B;

[0064] FIG. 4E is a rear view of an example of a wand for use with the housing shown inFIG. 4B;

[0065] FIG. 4F is a cross-sectional view of the housing shown in FIG. 4B positioned within a headrail of an architectural -structure covering and coupled to the wand shown in FIG. 4E in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure;

[0066] FIG. 4G is a cross-sectional view of an alternate example of a housing in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the housing including a spring-loaded plunger;

[0067] FIG. 4H is a rear view of an alternate example of a wand for use with the housing shown in FIG. 4G;

[0068] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of another alternate example of a housing in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the housing including a magnetic coupling feature and having a male connection configuration;

[0069] FIG. 4J is a rear view of an alternate example of a wand for use with the housing shown in FIG. 41, the wand having a magnetic coupling feature and a female connection configuration;

[0070] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure;

[0071] FIG. 6A is a frontal view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 5;

[0072] FIG. 6B is a side view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 5;

[0073] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 5;

[0074] FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 5;

[0075] FIG. 7A is a perspective view illustrating an example of an architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 5, the covering shown in a closed configuration(e.g., a closed-up configuration);

[0076] FIG. 7B is a perspective view illustrating the architectural-structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 7A, the covering shown in an opened configuration;

[0077] FIG. 7C is a perspective view illustrating the architectural-structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 7A, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-down configuration);

[0078] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternate example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure;

[0079] FIG. 9A is a frontal view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 8;

[0080] FIG. 9B is a side view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 8;

[0081] FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 8;

[0082] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of an architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 8, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-up configuration);

[0083] FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating an example of an architectural-structure covering including an alternate example of a tilt wand in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-up configuration);

[0084] FIG. 1 IB is a perspective view illustrating the architectural -structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 11 A, the covering shown in an opened configuration;

[0085] FIG. 11C is a perspective view illustrating the architectural-structure covering including the tilt wand shown in FIG. 11A, the covering shown in a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-down configuration);

[0086] FIG. 12A is a front view of the tilt wand shown in FIGS. 11A;

[0087] FIG. 12B is a side view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 12A; and

[0088] FIG. 12C is a perspective view of the tilt wand shown in FIG. 12A.

[0089] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are merely representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the disclosure. The drawings are intended to depict examples of the disclosure, and therefore are not to be considered as limiting in scope. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] Numerous examples of a tilt wand arranged and configured to be used in connection with an architectural -structure covering will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which examples of the present disclosure are presented. As will be described in greater detail below, in some examples, the tilt wand is arranged and configured to couple to, or be associated with, the tilt rod assembly of the architectural -structure covering to move (e g., rotate or tilt) the covering (e.g., slats) between opened and closed configurations. For example, the tilt rod assembly may be partially encasedwithin a housing. In some examples, the tilt wand may be coupled to the housing for coupling the tilt wand to the architectural -structure covering. In use, the tilt wand encapsulates any tilt cords to provide increased safety. The tilt wand of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples set forth herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure will convey certain features of the tilt wand to those skilled in the art.

[0091] It should be understood that, as described herein, an “example” or 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 examples or embodiments are to be understood as merely 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 examples or embodiments of concepts or features together in a single example or 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 example or embodiment can be used separately, or with another example or embodiment to yield a still further example or embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter coverssuch modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0092] As will be described in greater detail herein, in use, the tilt wand includes an upper wand portion and a lower wand portion. A portion of the upper wand portion may be positioned within, received, etc. within the lower wand portion, or vice-versa. The lower wand portion may be moveable such as, for example, telescopically, vertically slidable, etc. relative to the upper wand portion so that movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates an output drive shaft, which is coupled, either directly or indirectly, to the tilt rod assembly of the architectural -structure covering to move (e.g., tilt or rotate) the covering between opened and closed configurations.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1D, an example of an architectural-structure covering 100 in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. The architectural-structure covering 100 may include a covering 110 movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In addition, the covering 110 is movable between an opened configuration (FIGS. IB and ID) and one or more closed configurations (e.g., a closed-up configuration (FIG. 1A) and a closed-down configuration (FIG. 1C)) to vary see-through the covering. That is, as illustrated, in some examples, the covering 110 may include a plurality of slats 112. In use, the slats 112 are moveable, tiltable, rotatable, etc. to vary their angle between opened and closed configurations. For purposes of illustration, it should be appreciated that the various architectural -structure coverings shown herein have been illustrated with the ladder cords removed. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that such coverings include ladder cords for tilting the slats.

[0094] In addition, as illustrated, the architectural -structure covering 100 may also include a headrail 120, which may include a housing having opposed end caps to form an open-bottom enclosure. The headrail 120 may also include attachments or brackets (not shown) for coupling the headrail 120 to a structure above, or at the top of, an architectural structure, such as a window frame or wall, via mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, or the like. In use, the headrail 120 may house a tilt rod assembly 118 (FIG. ID) including, inter alia, a tilt rod 122.

[0095] In use, as will be described in greater detail below, manipulation of a tilt wand via, for example, moving the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion causes an output drive shaft of the tilt wand to rotate, which rotates the tilt rod, which moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0096] As will be described herein, the present disclosure is directed to a tilt wand for imparting rotation to a tilt rod of an architectural-structure covering to move (e.g., tilt or rotate) the covering between opened and closed configurations, as such, the present disclosure should not be limited to any particular configuration of an architectural -structure covering, tilt rod assembly, etc. unless specifically claimed. For example, although a particular example of an architectural -structure covering is shown, many different types and styles of architectural - structure coverings exist and could be employed in place of the example illustrated. As such, the present disclosure should not be limited to any particular type of architectural-structure covering.

[0097] With additional reference to FIGS. 2A-3F, the architectural-structure covering 100 may further includes a tilt wand 200. As will be described in greater detail below, the tilt wand200 includes a first, upper or inner member or tube (referred to herein as an upper wand portion220) and a second, lower or outer member or tube (referred to herein as a lower wand portion240). In use, as illustrated and as will be described in greater detail below, the tilt wand 200 is coupled to, or associated with, the tilt rod assembly 118 via, for example, a coupling mechanism used to couple the tilt wand 200 to the tilt rod assembly 118. For example, the tilt rod assembly 118 may include gears and may be partially encased within and / or include a housing. In some examples, the tilt wand 200 may be coupled to the housing, thereby coupling the tilt wand 200 to the architectural-structure covering 100.

[0098] In several embodiments, the tilt wand 200 may be configured as a telescoping wand including both the upper wand portion 220 and the lower wand portion 240, with the upper wand portion 220 being configured to be received within the lower wand portion 240 (or vice versa) in a telescoping manner to allow an effective length of the tilt wand 200 to be increased or decreased with relative movement between the upper and lower wand portions 220, 240. For example, as best illustrated in FIG. 2C, the upper wand portion 220 extends between a top end 222 and a bottom end 224, with the bottom end 224 being received within the lower wand portion 240. The lower wand portion 240 extends between a top end 242 and a bottom end 244, with the top end 242 being configured to slide over a portion of the upper wand portion 220 in a telescoping arrangement as the lower wand portion 240 is moved upward and downwardly relative to the upper wand portion 220.

[0099] Additionally, as best illustrated in FIG. 2D, the tilt wand 200 includes tilt cords such as, for example, first and second tilt cords 260, 262 (shown schematically as separate dashed lines in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2D). In use, the tilt cords 260, 262 extend through the upper wand portion 220 and at least partially into the lower wand portion 240 such that the tilt cords 260, 262 are encapsulated or encased by the tilt wand 200. For example, each tilt cord 260, 262 may extend through the upper wand portion 220 from a spool, such as a cord spool 265. Thetilt cords 260, 262 extend from the spool 265 adjacent the top end 222 of the upper wand portion 220 to a location within the lower wand portion 240. Specifically, the first tilt cord 260 may extend through the tilt wand 200 from the spool 265 to the bottom end 244 of the lower wand portion 240, with an end 261 of the tilt cord 260 being coupled to the lower wand portion 240 at or adjacent to its bottom end 244. For example, in one embodiment, the end 261 of the tilt cord 260 may be configured to be coupled to a bottom cap 270 mounted or secured to the bottom end 244 of the lower wand portion 240, such as by tying the end 261 of the tilt cord 260 to the bottom cap 270.

[0100] Alternatively, with reference to FIGS. 2E-2K, an alternate example of a bottom cap 270’ is illustrated. As illustrated, the bottom cap 270’ may be configured with a cord tensioner. For example, as illustrated, the bottom cap 270’ may include a screw 271’. The screw 271’ may be rotatably coupled to the bottom cap 270’. In use, the end 261 of the tilt cord 260 may be coupled to a shaft of the screw 271’ (e.g., the tilt cord 260 may pass through an opening 276’ (FIG. 2K) formed in the shaft of the screw 271’ and subsequently tied or affixed therethrough). Thereafter, in use, with the tilt cord 260 coupled to the shaft of the screw 271’, rotation of the screw 271’ relative to the bottom cap 270’ tightens the tension in the tilt cord 260. As illustrated, the screw 271’ may include a tool engaging mechanism 273’ such as, for example, a slot for engaging a tip of a screwdriver, although alternate tool engaging mechanisms are envisioned. In addition, the screw 271’ may include a plurality of projections or detents 274’ for engaging corresponding projections or detents formed in the bottom cap 270’ to resist unintentional rotation of the screw 271’ relative to the bottom cap 270’. In addition, in some examples, the bottom cap 270’ may include a bridge or passageway 275’ formed therein for directing the tiltcord 260 from the lower wand portion 240, through the bottom cap 270’ and into engagement with the shaft of the screw 271’.

[0101] Moreover, referring back to FIG. 2D, the second tilt cord 262 may extend downwardly through the tilt wand 200 from the spool 265, wrap around the bottom end 224 of the upper wand portion 220, and extend upwardly therefrom to the top end 242 of the lower wand portion 240, with an end 263 of the tilt cord 262 being coupled to the lower wand portion 240 at or adjacent to its top end 242. For example, the end 263 of the second tilt cord 262 may be configured to be coupled to a top cap 272 mounted or secured to the top end 242 of the lower wand portion 240, such as by tying the end 263 of the tilt cord 262 to the top cap 272.

[0102] Alternatively, with reference to FIGS. 2L-2O, an alternate example of a top cap 272’ is illustrated. As illustrated, the top cap 272’ may include an insert 277. In use, the insert 277 is arranged and configured to close off or finish off the top end of the top cap 272’ to provide improved appearance. In addition, the insert 277 may be arranged and configured to guide the upper wand portion 220 relative to the lower wand portion 240. In use, the end 263 of the tilt cord 262 may be routed through one or more openings 278 (FIGS. 2N and 20) formed in the top cap 272’. In addition, the end 263 of the tilt cord 262 may be tied and affixed to the top cap 272’. Thus arranged, the top cap 272’ may facilitate routing the tilt cord 262 between the upper wand portion 220 and the lower wand portion 240.

[0103] Additionally, in some examples, the bottom end 224 of the upper wand portion 220 may be configured as, or include or be coupled to, a bushing to provide a bearing surface for the second tilt cord 262 as it wraps around the bottom end 224 of the upper wand portion 220 and extends upwardly therefrom towards the top end 242 of the lower wand portion 240. Thusarranged, in addition to providing a turning surface for the second tilt cord 262, the bushing may also be configured to space the upper wand portion 220 apart from the lower wand portion 240, while providing a space for the second tilt cord 262 in between the upper and lower wand portions 220, 240. That is, the bushing may include a groove for the second tilt cord 262, and a bridge to ensure that the second tilt cord 262 remains within the groove. Such routing of the second tilt cord 262 creates an overlapped cord section within the tilt wand 200 across which the second tilt cord 262 vertically overlaps itself. A vertical height of this overlapped cord section may generally vary as the lower wand portion 240 is moved relative to the upper wand portion 220. Thus arranged, the tilt cords 260, 262 remain concealed by, contained within, etc. the tilt wand 200. As such, the end user can manipulate the configuration of the covering 110 while the tilt cords 260, 262 remain inaccessible to the end user, thereby increasing safety considerations.

[0104] In use, by coupling the ends 261, 263 of the tilt cords 260, 262 to the lower wand portion 240 in the manner described above, the tilt cords 260, 262 may function to rotationally drive the spool 265 as the lower wand portion 240 is moved relative to the upper wand portion 220. Specifically, unwinding the first tilt cord 260 from the spool 265 rotates the spool 265 in a first direction, such as, for example, clockwise, while unwinding the second tilt cord 262 from the spool 265 rotates the spool 265 in a second direction opposite the first direction, such as, for example, counterclockwise. In one embodiment, downward motion of the lower wand portion 240 relative to the upper wand portion 220 may result in the first tilt cord 260 paying off of or unwinding from the spool 265 while the second tilt cord 262 winds around the spool 265 to rotationally drive the spool 265, which rotates an output drive shaft 268 of the tilt wand 200, in a first rotational direction, which, in turn, results in the slats 112 being tilted downwards. In doing so, the vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord 262 may be reducedby an amount proportional to the amount of the second tilt cord 262 that winds around the spool 265 as the lower wand portion 240 is moved downward relative to the upper wand portion 220. Similarly, upward motion of the lower wand portion 240 relative to the upper wand portion 220 may result in the second tilt cord 262 paying off of or unwinding from the spool 265 while the first tilt cord 260 winds around the spool 265 to rotationally drive the spool 265, and hence the output drive shaft 268 in an opposite, second rotational direction, which, in turn, results in the slats 112 being tilted upwards. In doing so, the vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord 262 may be increased by an amount proportional to the amount of the second tilt cord 262 that is unwound from the spool 265 as the lower wand portion 240 is moved downward relative to the upper wand portion 220. Accordingly, by moving the lower wand portion 240 relative to the upper wand portion 220, a user of the tilt wand 200 may tilt the slats 112 in either direction between their closed-up configuration, their opened configuration, and their closed-down configuration.

[0105] It should be appreciated that, in some examples, the tilt cords 260, 262 may be configured to be in “tension” in their installed states. Specifically, during installation of the tilt cords 260, 262 relative to the tilt wand 200, a given amount of tension may be applied through the cords 260, 262 (e.g., a nominal tension, such as one pound of tension) as the ends 261, 263 of the cords 260, 262 are being tied off or otherwise coupled to the respective components of the tilt wand 200. This “pre-tensioned state” of the tilt cords 260, 262 may allow the cords 260, 262 to provide a compressive force against the tilt wand 200. Specifically, the “pre-tensioned” first tilt cord 260 applies an upward force at the bottom end 244 of the lower wand portion 240 while the “pre-tensioned” second tilt cord 262 applies a downward force at the top end 242 of the lowerwand portion 240. Moreover, the “pre-tensioned” tilt cords 260, 262 collectively apply an upwardly directed force against the upper wand portion 220 of the tilt wand 200.

[0106] In general, it should be appreciated that the tilt cords 260, 262 may correspond to any suitable cords formed from any suitable material. However, in several examples, it may be desirable to form the tilt cords 260, 262 from a chemical fiber capable of maintaining the set amount of pre-tension within the cords 260, 262 during operation of the tilt wand 200, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers (also referred to as high modulus polyethylene (HMPE) fibers). UHMWPE or HMPE fibers are types of polyolefin fibers formed from long, highly oriented chains of polyethylene. This microstructure generally provides numerous mechanical advantages, including high strength and high modulus along the longitudinal direction of the chains. As such, the fibers will stretch under tension, but will slowly retract back to their nominal or default state once the tensile load is removed. Accordingly, in the present application, such fibers can be used within the tilt cords 260, 262 to provide a “no-slack” tilt wand 200 without the use of the springs. For example, unlike many conventional cords that will stretch or lengthen over time and create slack within the tilt system, cords formed from UHMWPE or HMPE fibers will return back to their initial or nominal state, thereby maintaining the “pre-tensioned” state of the cord and, thus, preventing cord slack within the tilt system. Such fibers are commercially available, for example, under the trade names DYNEEMA and SPECTRA.

[0107] With reference to FIGS. 3A-3F, and as previously mentioned, the spool 265 of the tilt wand 200 is coupled to, or associated with, an output drive shaft 268. As illustrated, in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the output drive shaft 268 may include a first coupling feature such as, for example, a male coupling feature. In the illustratedembodiment, such coupling feature comprises an external hex drive 269 (FIG. 3F), although other suitable configurations are envisioned. In use, the external hex drive 269 is arranged and configured to engage (e.g., be received within) a second coupling feature such as, for example, a female coupling feature associated with the tilt rod assembly 118. In the illustrated embodiment, such coupling feature is a bore 283 (FIG. 3F) formed in a drive shaft 280 associated with the tilt rod assembly 118 positioned in the headrail 120, although other suitable configurations are envisioned. As best illustrated in FIG. 3F, in some examples, the drive shaft 280 includes a first end 282 and a second end 284. The first end 282 may include the bore 283 arranged and configured to receive the external hex drive 269 of the output drive shaft 268 associated with the spool 265. The second end 284 of the drive shaft 280 may include or be associated with a first gear 290. In use, the gear 290 may be operatively coupled to the drive shaft 280, or integrally formed therewith. In some examples, the gear 290 is configured as a worm gear or a helical gear arranged and configured to interact with a second gear 292, such as, for example, a helical or worm gear, formed on, or associated with, the tilt rod 122 of the architectural-structure covering 100.

[0108] Thus arranged, movement of the lower wand portion 240 relative to the upper wand portion 220 moves the tilt cords 260, 262 about the spool 265, which rotates the output drive shaft 268, which rotates the drive shaft 280 and the first and second gears 290, 292, which rotates the tilt rod 122 and hence the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. Meanwhile, simultaneously, the tilt cords 260, 262 remain concealed by, contained within, etc., the tilt wand 200. As such, the end user can manipulate the configuration of the covering 110 while any tilt cords remain inaccessible to the end user thereby increasing safety considerations.

[0109] In some examples, the tilt wand 200 can be coupled to, or associated with, the architectural -structure covering 100 by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, as previously described, the external hex drive 269 of the output drive shaft 268 may be coupled to, or inserted within, the bore 283 formed in the drive shaft 280 of the tilt rod assembly 118. However, in other embodiments, the coupling configuration may be reversed, with the tilt rod assembly 118 including a male coupling feature configured to be received within a female coupling feature of the tilt wand 200.

[0110] In addition, and / or alternatively, with reference to FIGS. 4A-4F, the tilt rod assembly 118 (e.g., including the drive shaft 280 and the first and second gears 290, 292) may include and / or be associated with or contained, enclosed, or encased within a housing 600, which may be positioned within the headrail 120 of the architectural-structure covering 100. In such an embodiment, the housing 600 may contain the drive shaft 280 and the first gear 290. In addition, the housing 600 may also contain the second gear 292 formed on or associated with the tilt rod 122 of the architectural-structure covering 100, with the tilt rod 112 being configured to pass through corresponding, axially aligned openings 601 defined through the housing 600 and / or by the second gear 292.

[0111] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 4B, the housing 600 may include a nub or projection 602 extending therefrom. As illustrated, the nub 602 may extend from a front surface of the housing 600. The nub 602 includes a key (e.g., a first key) 604 such as, for example, a partial thread or projection. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the key 604 includes a pair of opposed projections 604a extending radially outwardly from the nub 602. In use, the wand 200, and more specifically, the rear side of the wand 200, may include a corresponding key (e.g., a second key) 606. For example, as shown in FIG. 4E, the key 606 may include a pair ofopposed projections 606a along with a recessed cavity 607 for receiving the nub 602 of the housing 600 (e.g., via a male / female coupling configuration). Thus arranged, as generally illustrated in FIG. 4A, the wand 200 may be selectively coupled to the housing 600 via alignment of the corresponding key 606 formed on the wand 200 with the key 604 formed on the housing 600, such as by aligning the projections 606a with the spaces or gaps in-between the projections 604a formed on the nub 602 of the housing 600 (i.e., by placing the wand 200 at the unlocked position relative to the housing 600 shown in FIG. 4A). Thereafter, the wand 200 may be pushed or moved toward the housing 600 and subsequently rotated to couple the wand 200 to the housing 600, and hence to the architectural -structure covering 100 (i.e., by placing the wand 200 at the vertical orientation or “locked position” relative to the housing 600 as shown in FIG. 4F). In use, the incorporation of corresponding keys 604, 606 enable the tilt wand 200 to be selectively coupled to (e.g., able to be coupled and decoupled, disconnected, separated, etc. from) the architectural-structure covering 100 during, for example, shipping. As such, the wand 200 can be separately shipped as needed. Alternatively, the tilt wand 200 can be pivoted or rotated relative to the architectural -structure covering 100 to ease delivery (e.g., by enabling the tilt wand 200 to rotate relative to the housing 600, the tilt wand 200 can be positioned, for example, parallel to, or at an angle relative to, the headrail 120 during shipping).

[0112] With reference to FIGS. 4G and 4H, in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, an alternate example of a housing 600’ is illustrated. In use, the housing 600’ is substantially similar to housing 600 previously described herein. As illustrated, housing 600’ includes a spring-loaded plunger 650 (FIG. 4G) arranged and configured to interact with a stop 652 (FIG. 4G), such as a groove or recess formed on a rear surface of the wand 200. In use, interaction between the spring-loaded plunger 650 and the stop 652 assists with maintaining thewand 200 in a vertical position (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the headrail) when coupled to the housing 600’. In addition, the spring-loaded plunger 650 allows the wand to rotate or pivot about the housing 600’ as previously described while providing a mechanism to secure the wand in the vertical position.

[0113] Additionally, with reference to FIGS. 41 and 4J, in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, another alternate example of a housing 600” is illustrated. In use, the housing 600” is substantially similar to housing 600 and housing 600’ previously described herein. However, in contrast to the spring-loaded plunger 650 of housing 600’, the housing 600” shown in FIGS. 41 includes a first magnetic element 680 arranged and configured to interact or magnetically engage with a second magnetic element 296 (FIG. 4J) provided along a rear surface of the wand 200. In use, interaction or magnetic engagement between the first and second magnetic elements 680, 296 assists with maintaining the wand 200 in a vertical position (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the headrail) when coupled to the housing 600”.

[0114] It should be appreciated that the embodiments shown in FIGS. 41 and 4J also provide an alternative example of a coupling configuration between the tilt drive assembly 118 contained within the housing 600” and the wand 200. Specifically, unlike the embodiment described above with reference to FIG. 3F in which the wand 200 includes a male coupling feature (e.g., hex drive 269 of drive shaft 268) configured to be received within a female coupling feature of the tilt drive assembly 118 (e.g., the bore 283 defined by the drive shaft 280 of the tilt drive assembly 118), the wand 200 includes a female coupling feature, such as an eight-point starshaped opening, configured to receive a corresponding male coupling feature of the tilt drive assembly 118, such as a corresponding eight-point, star-shaped end or projection 281 of the drive shaft 280 of the tilt drive assembly 118. For instance, the first end 282 of the drive shaft 280may be configured as or include the projection 281 to allow the drive shaft 280 to be coupled to the drive shaft 268 of the wand 200.

[0115] It should be appreciated that the upper and lower wand portions 220, 240 of the wand 200 may have any suitable length. In one embodiment, the lower wand portion 240 may be elongated relative to the upper wand portion 220, particularly in instances of taller coverings (i.e., coverings with increased vertical heights). In addition, the tilt wand 200 including the upper wand portion 220 and the lower wand portion 240 may be manufactured from any suitable material such as, for example, a plastic, a fiberglass, a carbon-fiber, a metal, or combinations thereof.

[0116] In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the tilt wand 200 may be arranged and configured so that one vertical or linear stroke of the lower wand portion 240 relative to the upper wand portion 220 causes the covering 110 to move from the closed-up configuration to the opened configuration to the closed-down configuration (e.g., a single stroke system).

[0117] With reference to FIGS. 5-7C, an alternate example of a tilt wand 300 for rotating or tilting the covering 110 (e.g., slats 112) between opened and closed configurations is illustrated. As shown, the tilt wand 300 may be used in place of the operating element such as, for example, the bead chain generally used in conventional architectural-structure coverings.

[0118] As previously mentioned, an architectural -structure covering 100 may include a covering 110 movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In addition and / or alternatively, the covering 110 may be moveable between an opened configuration (FIG. 7B) and a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-up configuration (FIG. 7A) and a closed-downconfiguration (FIG. 7C)). Moreover, the architectural-structure covering 100 may include a tilt rod assembly 118 including, inter alia, a tilt rod 122, positioned within the headrail 120 to move the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. As previously mentioned, conventional architectural-structure coverings may utilize an operating element such as, for example, a bead chain. In use, manipulation of the operating element (e.g., bead chain) rotates the tilt rod 122, which moves the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the operating element of a conventional architectural-structure covering may be replaced by the wand 300.

[0119] In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the wand 300 includes a handle, a body, a track, etc. 310 (terms used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit or distinguish) and an actuating member or slider 350 (terms used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit or distinguish) moveably positioned along a length of the body 310. In addition, the wand 300 includes an operating element such as, for example, a bead chain 330, contained (e.g., enclosed or encased) within the body 310 of the wand 300. That is, the wand 300, and more particularly, the body 310 is arranged and configured to contain the operating element (e.g., bead chain 330). In addition, as will be described in greater detail below, the wand 300 includes a gear or spool 365 and an output drive shaft 368. In use, the body 310, and hence the wand 300, is arranged and configured to be coupled to, or associated with, the architectural - structure covering 100 such as, for example, the tilt rod assembly 118 positioned within the headrail 120 of the architectural-structure covering 100 via, for example, inserting the output drive shaft 368 of the wand 300 into a bore associated with the tilt rod assembly. Thus arranged, in use, the body 310 is arranged and configured to be coupled to, or associated with, the architectural -structure covering 100 such as, for example, to the tilt rod assembly 118 positionedwithin the headrail 120 of the architectural -structure covering 100 via, for example, inserting an output drive shaft 368 of the tilt wand 300 into a bore associated with the tilt rod assembly. Alternatively, and / or in addition, as previously described, the wand 300 may be coupled to the tilt rod assembly in any other suitable manner.

[0120] In the illustrated example, the body 310 includes a first surface 312, a second surface 314, and an outer circumference or perimeter surface 316 extending between the first and second surfaces 312, 314. The outer circumference or perimeter surface 316 includes a channel 320 formed therein. In use, a bead chain 330 is arranged and configured to be positioned within the channel 320 formed in the outer circumference or perimeter surface 316 of the body 310. Thus arranged, the bead chain 330 is contained (e.g., encased or enclosed) within the channel 320 formed in the body 310. That is, in some examples, the body 310 includes a shroud or channel 320 (terms used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit or distinguish) formed in a perimeter or side surfaces thereof, the bead chain 330 being positioned within the channel 320. As such, in one example, the operating element is provided in the form of a bead chain, which is positioned within the channel 320 formed in the body 310.

[0121] In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the slider 350 is moveably positioned along a length of the body 310. In addition, the slider 350 is continuously coupled to the bead chain 330 so that movement of the slider 350 manipulates the bead chain 330, which rotates the gear or spool 365, and hence the output drive shaft 368, which causes the tilt rod 122 of the architectural -structure covering 100 to rotate, which moves or tilts the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. Thus arranged, in accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, by positioning the bead chain 330 within the channel 320formed in the body 310, the bead chain 330 remains contained from the end-user while enabling easy and intuitive operation.

[0122] As will be shown and described herein, in some examples, the operating element may be in the form of a bead chain. As will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the bead chain 330 can be provided in the body 310 of the wand 300 as a continuous loop and includes a plurality of interconnected beads. Thus arranged, the bead chain 330 includes a downwardly extending run or segment and an upwardly extending run or segment. However, the operating element may be provided in other forms or configurations. For example, the operating element may be provided in the form of an operating cord such as, for example, a nylon cord, a belt loop, a chain, etc. As such, the operating element should not be limited to any particular type of cord or chain unless explicitly claimed.

[0123] In accordance with one or more features of the present example, as previously mentioned, the tilt wand 300 includes a gear or spool 365, which contains, or is coupled to, an output drive shaft 368. In use, the bead chain 330 is coupled to, or associated with, the gear or spool 365, which is coupled to, or associated with, the output drive shaft 368, which is operatively coupled to, or associated with, the tilt rod assembly, which is located within the headrail 120 of the architectural-structure covering 100 as previously mentioned.

[0124] That is, in use, the tilt wand 300 may be operatively associated or coupled, either directly or indirectly, to the architectural-structure covering 100 by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, the tilt wand 300 may include an output drive shaft 368 which is operatively coupled to the tilt rod assembly located within the headrail 120. Thus arranged, the output drive shaft 368 may, in one embodiment, be inserted into a bore formed in adrive shaft of the tilt rod assembly as previously mentioned for coupling the tilt wand 300 to the architectural -structure covering 100 and for coupling the output drive shaft 368 to the tilt rod 122. In addition, as previously mentioned, the tilt wand 300 may be coupled to the housing 600. In use, movement of the slider 350 along a length of the body 310 moves the bead chain 330, which rotates the gear or spool 365, which rotates the output drive shaft 368 of the tilt wand 300. That is, the tilt wand 300, and in particular the output drive shaft 368, includes, or is associated with the gear or spool 365. The bead chain 330 is coupled to, or associated with, the gear or spool 365 so that movement of the bead chain 330 rotates the gear or spool 365, which rotates the output drive shaft 368, which when coupled to the tilt rod assembly of the architectural - structure covering 100 causes the covering 110 to tilt or rotate between the opened and closed configurations.

[0125] As illustrated, the slider 350 may be positioned about an outer surface of the body 310. That is, for example, the slider 350 may include an interior cavity arranged and configured to partially receive, encase, etc. the body 310. In addition, the slider 350 is arranged and configured to engage the bead chain 330. For example, as best illustrated in FIG. 6C, the slider 350 may include inwardly directed projections or recesses 352 for engaging the bead chain 330. As illustrated, in some examples, the slider 350 is coupled to the bead chain 330 along one side of the loop (e.g., either along the downwardly extending run or segment or the upwardly extending run or segment). Thus arranged, in use, downward movement of the slider 350 pulls down on the bead chain 330 while upward movement of the slider 350 pulls up on the bead chain 330. As such, movement of the slider 350 along a length of the body 310 moves the bead chain 330, which rotates the gear or spool 365, which rotates the output drive shaft 368 of the tilt wand 300, which tilts or rotates the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. Forexample, with reference to FIG. 7A, with the slider 350 in a first position, the covering 110 may be in the closed configuration (e.g., a closed-up configuration). Thereafter, movement of the slider 350 to a second or intermediate position tilts or rotates the covering 110 to the opened configuration (FIG. 7B). Moreover, subsequent movement of the slider 350 to a third position may tilt or rotate the covering 110 to a second, closed configuration (e.g., a closed-down configuration) (FIG. 7C), although this is but one configuration and alternate configurations are envisioned such as, for example, the slider may be arranged and configured to move between first and second positions to move the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

[0126] With reference to FIGS. 8-10, an alternate example of a tilt wand 400 for tilting or rotating the covering 110 between opened and closed configurations is illustrated. As illustrated, the tilt wand 400 is substantially similar to the tilt wand 300 described above in connection with FIGS. 5-7C except as described herein.

[0127] In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the tilt wand 400 includes a body 410 including a channel 420 for receiving an operating element (e.g., a bead chain 430) therein. In addition, the tilt wand 400 includes first and second sliders 450, 452 as opposed to a single slider as previously described. In use, each of the first and second sliders 450, 452 is coupled to the body 410. In addition, each of the first and second sliders 450, 452 is coupled to the bead chain 430. For example, the first slider 450 may include a coupling mechanism 451 such as, for example, inwardly directed projections or recesses for engaging one side of the loop (e.g., the downwardly extending run or segment) while the second slider 452 may include a coupling mechanism 453 such as, for example, inwardly directed projections or recesses for engaging the other side of the loop (e.g., the upwardly extending run or segment). In use, each of the first and second sliders 450, 452 is independently moveable by the end user.Thus arranged, in use, movement of the first slider 450 from a first position to the second position may move the covering 110 from the closed configuration to the opened configuration. Meanwhile, movement of the second slider 452 from a first position to a second position may move the covering 110 from the opened configuration to the closed configuration. Thus arranged, with the first and second sliders 450, 452 positioned on either side of the body 410, in use, the end user may move the first slider 450 downwards to move the covering 110 to the opened configuration and move the second slider 452 upwards to move the covering 110 to the closed configuration. As such, the dual-slider tilt wand provides intuitive operation.

[0128] With reference to FIGS. 11A-12D, an alternate example of a tilt wand 500 for rotating or tilting the covering 110 (e.g., slats 112) between opened and closed configurations is illustrated. As illustrated, in use, the tilt wand 500 includes first and second tilt wands 510, 520. The - first and second tilt wands 510, 520 may be coupled to opposite ends of an operating element such as, for example, an operating cord. In use, the first and second tilt wands 510, 520 may be coupled to the opposite ends of the operating element via any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed.

[0129] As previously mentioned, an architectural -structure covering 100 may include a covering 110 movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In addition and / or alternatively, the covering 110 may be moveable between an opened configuration (FIG. 11B) and a closed configuration (e.g., a closed-up configuration (FIG. 11A) and a closed-down configuration (FIG. 11C)). Moreover, the architectural -structure covering 100 may include a tilt rod assembly 118 including, inter alia, a tilt rod 122, positioned within the headrail 120 to move the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. As previously mentioned, conventional architectural-structure coverings may utilize an operating element such as, forexample, an operating cord, although it is envisioned that alternate configurations of operating elements may be used such as, for example, a bead chain. In use, manipulation of the operating element (e.g., operating cord) rotates the tilt rod 122, which moves the covering 110 between the opened and closed configurations. In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the ends of the operating element may be coupled to first and second tilt wands 510, 520, respectively. Thus arranged, the exposed lengths of the operating element are minimized.

[0130] In accordance with one or more features of the present disclosure, the first wand 510 may be coupled to, for example, the downwardly extending run or segment of an operating element 530. The second wand 520 may be coupled to, for example, the upwardly extending run or segment of the operating element 530. In addition, as previously described in connection with alternate examples provided herein, the wand 500 includes a gear or spool, which contains, or is coupled to, an output drive shaft 568. In use, the operating element 530 is coupled to, or associated with, the gear or spool, which is coupled to, or associated with, the output drive shaft 568, which is operatively coupled to, or associated with, the tilt rod assembly, which is located within the headrail 120 of the architectural -structure covering 100 as previously mentioned.

[0131] In use, the wand 500 is arranged and configured to be coupled to, or associated with, the architectural-structure covering 100 such as, for example, the tilt rod assembly positioned within the headrail 120 of the architectural -structure covering 100 via, for example, inserting the output drive shaft 568 of the wand 500 into a bore associated with the tilt rod assembly (e.g., coupling the output drive shaft 568 to a drive shaft 280 of the tilt rod assembly), and / or via coupling the wand 500 to the housing 600 as previously described. Thus arranged, in use, the output drive shaft 568 of the tilt wand 500 is coupled to the tilt rod assembly 122 of the architectural -structure covering 100.

[0132] As such, by grasping and moving (pulling) down the first wand 510, the operating element 530 is moved, which rotates the gear or spool, and hence the output drive shaft 568, which causes the tilt rod 122 of the architectural-structure covering 100 to rotate, which moves or tilts the covering 110 from, for example, the closed configuration to the opened configuration. Alternatively, in use, by grasping and moving (pulling) down the second wand 520, the operating element 530 is moved in the opposite direction, which rotates the gear or spool, and hence the output drive shaft 568 in the opposite direction, which causes the tilt rod 122 of the architectural - structure covering 100 to rotate, which moves or tilts the covering 110 from, for example, the opened configuration to the closed configuration.

[0133] While the present disclosure refers to certain examples, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described examples are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present disclosure, as defined in the appended claim(s). Accordingly, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the described examples, but that it has the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof.

[0134] The foregoing description has broad application. It should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may apply to many types of coverings, in addition to the roller-type coverings described and depicted herein. The discussion of any example is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples. In other words, while illustrative examples of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

[0135] The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, examples, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of the certain aspects, examples, or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, examples, or configurations. Moreover, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate example of the present disclosure.

[0136] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. Furthermore, references to “one example” of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional examples that also incorporate the recited features.

[0137] 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 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, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. Connection references (e.g., engaged, attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative to 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. All rotational references describe relative movement between the various elements. 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. The drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative to sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An architectural-structure covering comprising: a headrail assembly including a tilt rod assembly having a tilt rod; a covering moveable between opened and closed configurations; and a tilt wand including: an upper wand portion; a lower wand portion; and an output drive shaft; wherein the output drive shaft is selectively coupled to the tilt rod assembly; and wherein, when the tilt wand is coupled to the tilt rod assembly, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

2. The architectural -structure covering of claim 1, wherein: the output drive shaft includes a first coupling feature; and the tilt rod assembly includes a drive shaft including a first end and a second end, the first end including a second coupling feature configured to be coupled to the first coupling feature, the second end including a first gear arranged and configured to interact with a second gear on the tilt rod.

3. The architectural-structure covering of claim 2, wherein the first and second gears are selected from one of a worm gear, a helical gear, or a combination thereof.

4. The architectural-structure covering of claim 2, wherein the first coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the second coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

5. The architectural-structure covering of claim 2, wherein the second coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the first coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

6. The architectural-structure covering of claim 2, further comprising a housing positioned within the headrail assembly, the housing containing the drive shaft and the first and second gears.

7. The architectural-structure covering of claim 6, wherein the housing includes a nub extending therefrom, the nub including a first key arranged and configured to interact with a second key formed on the wand so that, in use, alignment of the first and second keys selectively couples the wand to the housing.

8. The architectural-structure covering of claim 6, wherein the housing includes a spring-loaded plunger arranged and configured to interact with the wand to secure the wand in a vertical position when the wand is fully coupled to the housing.

9. The architectural-structure covering of claim 6, wherein the housing includes a magnetic element arranged and configured to interact with a magnetic element on the wand to secure the wand in a vertical position when the wand is fully coupled to the housing.

10. The architectural-structure covering of claim 1 , wherein the tilt wand further includes first and second tilt cords extending from a cord spool associated with the output drive shaft; and wherein movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion causes the first and second tilt cords to wind or unwind from the spool depending on a direction of movement of the lower wand portion.

11. The architectural-structure covering of claim 10, wherein: the first tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool to a bottom end of the lower wand portion; and the second tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool, wraps around a bottom end of the upper wand portion, and extends upwardly to a top end of the lower wand portion creating an overlapped cord section within the tilt wand across which the second tilt cord vertically overlaps itself; and movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion changes a vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord.

12. The architectural-structure covering of claim 10, further comprising a bottom cap coupled to a lower end of the lower wand portion, the bottom cap including a screw rotatably coupled thereto; wherein the first tilt cord is coupled to the screw so that rotation of the screw relative to the bottom cap tensions the tilt cord.13 The architectural-structure covering of claim 1, wherein a portion of the upper wand portion is received within the lower wand portion so that the lower wand portion is telescopic relative to the upper wand portion.

14. The architectural-structure covering of claim 1, wherein the covering includes a plurality of slats, the plurality of slats being tiltable to vary their angle between the opened and closed configurations.

15. A tilt wand arranged and configured to be used with an architectural -structure covering, the architectural -structure covering including a headrail assembly including a tilt rod assembly having a tilt rod and a covering moveable between opened and closed configurations, the tilt wand comprising: an upper wand portion; a lower wand portion; and an output drive shaft; wherein the output drive shaft is selectively coupled to the tilt rod assembly; and wherein, when the tilt wand is coupled to the tilt rod assembly, movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion rotates the output drive shaft, which rotates the tilt rod and moves the covering between the opened and closed configurations.

16. The tilt wand of claim 15, wherein: the output drive shaft includes a first coupling feature; andthe tilt rod assembly includes a drive shaft including a first end and a second end, the first end including a second coupling feature configured to be coupled to the first coupling feature, the second end including a first gear arranged and configured to interact with a second gear on the tilt rod.

17. The tilt wand of claim 16, wherein the first and second gears are selected from one of a worm gear, a helical gear, or a combination thereof.

18. The architectural-structure covering of claim 16, wherein the first coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the second coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

19. The architectural-structure covering of claim 16, wherein the second coupling feature is a male coupling feature and the first coupling feature is a female coupling feature arranged and configured to receive the male coupling feature.

20. The tilt wand of claim 15, wherein the tilt wand further includes first and second tilt cords extending from a cord spool associated with the output drive shaft; and wherein movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion causes the first and second tilt cords to wind or unwind from the spool depending on a direction of movement of the lower wand portion.

21. The tilt wand of claim 20, wherein: the first tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool to a bottom end of the lower wand portion; andthe second tilt cord extends downwardly from the spool, wraps around a bottom end of the upper wand portion, and extends upwardly to a top end of the lower wand portion creating an overlapped cord section within the tilt wand across which the second tilt cord vertically overlaps itself; and movement of the lower wand portion relative to the upper wand portion changes a vertical height of the overlapped cord section of the second tilt cord.

22. The tilt wand of claim 15, wherein a portion of the upper wand portion is received within the lower wand portion so that the lower wand portion is telescopic relative to the upper wand portion.

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