Adaptive zip screen roller blind system

Abstract

An adaptive ZIP screen roller blind system, comprising a roller box with an inspection flap, ZIP guides and a screen roller blind fabric unwound from a roller tube, characterised in that at least one horizontal spacer element (2) is attached to the outer surfaces of each of the two vertical ZIP guides (1), made from an extruded aluminium profile, whereby the spacer elements (2) located on both ZIP guides (1) are arranged symmetrically relative to one another, and the width of each spacer element (2) is equal to the width of the ZIP guide (1), whereby the spacer element (2) is secured to the ZIP ZIP guide (1) and to the mounting surface (3) by means of a fastener (M), whilst the system sides (12) enclosing the roller box (10) comprise, on their inner side: upper and side positioning brackets (19) which support the side edges of the roller box (10), a support (20) which supports the upper surface of the inspection flap (13), a pin (17) which acts as the axis for the winding tube, as well as holes (26) designed for guide cables.

Description

[0001] Adaptive ZIP screen roller blind system

[0002] The subject of the invention is an adaptive ZIP screen roller blind system, integrated with various building structures, providing sun protection and protection against adverse weather conditions.

[0003] Currently, there are various designs of roller blind systems featuring ZIP guides, snap-lock mechanisms and the integration of lighting or insulating elements, including, amongst others, profiles with removable flanges, modular ZIP guides with channels for locks, spacer brackets to set the guides back from the facade, as well as systems with snap-fit covers and segmented shields adapted to various installation and maintenance conditions.

[0004] A European invention, No. EP2238309A1, is known in the prior art, which describes a screen system with a special bracket (holder) for fixing a vertical ZIP guide to the mounting surface. This solution allows for adjustable spacing between the guide and the wall and correct alignment of the guide relative to the edge of the fabric by partially rotating the bracket before final fixing with screws. The main element of the bracket has an L-shaped cross-section with holes, allowing for installation both flush with the face of the wall and within a window recess, without the need for different bracket variants. The second component of the bracket, with a C-shaped cross-section, forms a channel into which the ZIP guide itself is inserted before being connected to the L-shaped component. Both components can be snapped together, and a third clamping component, if required, further secures them. The entire bracket ensures stable mounting of ZIP ZIP guides at a distance from the floor and facilitates the installation of roller blinds in various conditions.

[0005] A two-part guide for a vertical awning (ZIP screen) with lateral fabric guidance via a ZIP fastener is known from another European patent application, No. EP2631414A2. The ZIP guide consists of two main profiles: a support profile fixed to the wall or window frame, and a profile with a groove for guiding the fabric, which is clipped onto it. The two profiles are joined by sliding them together and snapping them into place - when folded, the latch holds the guide profile onto the support profile, whilst specially positioned holes allow them to be secured with screws for a firm fix. This solution facilitates installationand removal: the guide profile can be removed by pulling it outwards, without the need to slide it along the entire length of the guide

[0006] Yet another European invention, No. EP2725181A1, discloses multi-section side guides with a cassette for screen roller blinds. A new feature is the segmented design of the guides - each consists of a first base profile (mounted to the substrate) with a first ZIP guide, and two additional profiles which, once mounted onto the base profile, form a second ZIP guide for the sides of the unfolding fabric. The solution also allows for various cassette installation options: it can be flush-mounted or surface-mounted, with a suitably positioned service access opening. As a result, the invention ensures easy service access and adaptability to various installation conditions.

[0007] European patent No. EP2982827B1, on the other hand, describes an integrated support and guide profile for a roller awning. It describes side posts (vertical supports) with a dual-profile design: each consists of an L-shaped support profile, permanently fixed to the wall, and a U-shaped guide profile, which connects to the support profile and forms a guide channel for the edge of the fabric. The guide profile also serves as the side guide for the ZIP fastener and as an element that holds the roller blind’s bottom slat in the correct position during movement. Both profiles are designed to be easily assembled by sliding them together and snapping them into place, which eliminates the need for labour-intensive assembly using small components (this improves installation compared to earlier solutions involving additional slats or screws). The outer part of the guide is covered by a clip that snaps onto the support profile.

[0008] Yet another European invention, No. EP3098376A1, features a guide with a detachable mounting flange. The guide’s base profile is U-shaped, and on one side, instead of a fixed wall, there is a replaceable flange. The flange is fitted to the front of the guide via a snap-fit mechanism - it is slid into the channel of the base profile and held in place by a spring-loaded element, which eliminates the need for screws. As a result, the front of the guide remains smooth, with no mounting holes. To remove the flange, simply compress the spring element to allow it to slide out - this ensures quick access for servicing the interior of the guide. The design also allows for the installation of the profile in various building configurations : the guide can be fitted flush against the wall or partially recessed (flush)into the fagade wall, so that the visible external surface forms a uniform plane with the fagade.

[0009] The aim of the invention is to create a highly adaptable ZIP screen roller blind system which, thanks to the use of spacer elements, interchangeable side panels, adjustable fixings and universal system side profiles, allows for easy adaptation to a wide range of installation conditions — in both new and refurbished buildings — regardless of the type of fagade, recess depth or the presence of architectural obstacles, whilst ensuring effective sun protection, privacy and thermal insulation, as well as a high standard of aesthetic finish.

[0010] The essence of the invention is the ZIP adaptive screen roller blind system, comprising a roller box with an inspection flap, ZIP guides and a screen roller blind fabric unwound from the roller tube, characterised in that at least one horizontal spacer element, made of an extruded aluminium profile, is attached to the outer surfaces of each of the two vertical ZIP guides, whereby the spacer elements located on both ZIP guides are arranged symmetrically in relation to one another, and the width of each spacer is equal to the width of the ZIP guide, with the spacer being secured to the ZIP guide and to the mounting surface by means of a fastener, whilst the system sides enclosing the roller box comprise, on their inner side: upper and side positioning brackets providing support for the side edges of the roller box, a support bracket providing support for the upper surface of the inspection flap, a pin serving as the axis for the winding tube, and holes in the spindle designed for guide cables.

[0011] The invention is also characterised by the fact that the mounting can be carried out in one of three variants:

[0012] 1. the mounting comprises two mounting screws securing the ZIP guide to the spacer, and a fastener securing the spacer and the ZIP guide to the mounting surface, with the fastener passing through from the ZIP guide to the mounting surface;

[0013] 2. The mounting comprises two mounting screws securing the ZIP guide to the spacer, two small fasteners securing the spacer to a small mounting plate, and a large fastener securing the spacer to the mounting surface via the small mounting plate;3. The mounting comprises two mounting screws securing the ZIP guide to the spacer, two small fasteners securing the spacer to the large mounting plate, and two large fasteners securing the spacer, together with the large mounting plate, to the mounting surface via the flange of the mounting plate, whereby the flange protrudes beyond the outline of the spacer.

[0014] Preferably, the pin protrudes beyond the lower edge of the system side and acts as a support for the ZIP guide.

[0015] Preferably, the bottom surfaces of the ZIP guides are closed by end caps, whilst the inner side surfaces are closed by a closing profile.

[0016] Preferably, the roller box is fitted with a removable, tear-off panel covering the mounting pocket.

[0017] Preferably, a mounting hanger is secured within the mounting pocket.

[0018] Preferably, the lower surface of the inspection flap is fitted with a removable, tear-off panel covering the mounting pocket.

[0019] Preferably, LED lighting is mounted in the installation pocket of the inspection flap.

[0020] The invention is illustrated in more detail in the drawing, which shows various views of the solution.

[0021] The invention is illustrated in more detail in the drawings, which show various views of the solution.

[0022] The individual figures show, in turn:

[0023] - Fig. 1: the adaptive system with all fixings, viewed from above,

[0024] - Figs. 2-4: cross-sections of threaded mounting variants,

[0025] - Fig. 5: a side view of the free-hanging version of the system,

[0026] - Fig. 6: a section of the roller box with hangers,

[0027] - Fig. 7: a side view of the system in this variant,

[0028] - Fig. 8: Adaptive system in its entirety, viewed from below.Fig. 1 shows the ZIP 1 guides, to which spacer elements 2 made of aluminium profile are attached. Also shown are the roller box 10 and system side panels 12, which constitute the basic structural elements and the casing structure, as well as the roller blind fabric 16 terminated by a weight bar 27.

[0029] Fig. 2 illustrates mounting variant M, comprising two mounting screws 4 securing the ZIP 1 guide to the spacer 2, and a fastener 6 securing the spacer 2 and the guide 1 to the mounting surface 3. The fastener 6 passes through from the ZIP 1 guide to the mounting surface 3.

[0030] Fig. 3 shows mounting variant M in a different configuration. Mounting method M comprises two mounting screws 4, securing the ZIP 1 guide to the spacer 2, two small fasteners 7 securing the spacer 2 to the small mounting plate 8, and a large fastener 5 securing the spacer 2 to the mounting surface 3 via the small mounting plate 8.

[0031] Fig. 4 shows yet another variant of the M mounting. It comprises two mounting screws 4 securing the ZIP 1 guide to the spacer 2, two small fasteners 7 securing the spacer 2 to the large mounting plate 9, and two large fasteners 5 securing the spacer 2 together with the large mounting plate 9 to the mounting surface 3 via the flange 9a of the large mounting plate 9. Flange 9a protrudes beyond the outline of spacer element 2.

[0032] Fig. 5 shows the holes 26 for the guide cables, located above the pin 21, which ensure the precise positioning of the roller box 10 relative to the system side 12. Inside the system side panels 12 there is also a pin 17, which acts as the pivot for the roller tube and as a support for the roller blind drive, ensuring the smooth operation of the entire mechanism for raising and lowering the fabric. In addition, a support bracket 20 is shown, the purpose of which is to stabilise the upper surface of the inspection flap - it acts as a structural support, increasing the rigidity of the joint and improving the seal of the roller box 10. The presence of support 20 also prevents deformation of the flap during prolonged use, particularly in the case of larger-scale systems.

[0033] Fig.6 shows the roller box 10 with ZIP 1 guides fitted and the removable side panel 22 removed, which covers the mounting pocket 23 located at the rear of the roller box 10. Inside the mounting pocket 23, a mounting bracket 24 has been fitted, which acts as a load-bearing element enabling the roller box 10 to be securely and stably fixed to themounting surface. The mounting bracket 24 allows for precise alignment of the roller box 10, whilst facilitating the installation and any future servicing of the entire roller blind.

[0034] Fig. 7 shows the relationship of the pin 21 to the system sides 12. The pin 21 protrudes beyond the lower edge of the side profiles and acts as a support for the ZIP 1 guide. The pin 21 is also fitted with two mounting holes into which screws are inserted to lock the position of the ZIP 1 guide.

[0035] Fig. 8 illustrates the solutions used in the lower part of the system, including end caps 11 closing the lower ends of the large ZIP 1 guides, which are the same size as the large roller box 1, as well as: system side panels 12, an inspection flap 13 witharemovable panel 14 covering the mounting pocket 18. Also shown are the integrated LED lighting 25 and the closing profile 15, located on the inner side surfaces of the guides.

[0036] The invention constitutes an advanced technical design solution intended for the installation of textile blinds, in particular screen-type fabrics - perforated technical materials characterised by high resistance to weather conditions and UV radiation, and providing visual transparency whilst protecting rooms from overheating and excessive sunlight.

[0037] The system can be manufactured in both a free-hanging version and with side guidance via a cable or using ZIP guides - available at in a range of sizes - which allows for flexible adaptation of the product to the user’s individual needs and the requirements of a specific architectural installation.

[0038] Optionally, the system can be fitted with spacer elements attached to the ZIP guides, which allow the guide to be functionally spaced away from the mounting surface. This solution not only creates the effect of the guides and roller shutter appearing to be suspended in mid-air, but above all makes it possible to install the system even in challenging installation conditions - for example, where there are elements that need to be avoided, such as door handles, decorative mouldings, window frames or cornices. The spacers enable the ZIP guide to be precisely moved back by the planned distance, eliminating the risk of the roller blind colliding with obstacles and allowing installation where traditional solutions are insufficient.The spacers are made of extruded aluminium, powder-coated in colours matching the rest of the system. Each spacer is cut to size individually and can be fixed using one of three threaded fixing options. The first option uses a through -bolt passing through the ZIP guide and the spacer to the mounting surface, secured with screws. The second option relies on the use of a small mounting plate and a set comprising two small and one large fastener. The third option utilises a large mounting plate with a flange that extends beyond the outline of the spacer and works in conjunction with two small and two large fasteners, ensuring greater rigidity and stability of the entire assembly.

[0039] The system also includes side panels, which fulfil a key structural function - they stabilise the roller box together with the roller tube, onto which the roller blind fabric is wound, terminated by a weight bar. On the inside, the side panels are fitted with a pin acting as the axis of rotation for the roller tube, as well as upper and side positioning brackets that hold the edges of the box in the correct position. In addition, the side panels’ design includes a support to reinforce the upper surface of the inspection flap, as well as holes for routing guide cables, located below the brackets.

[0040] The system side panels are also fitted with installation markers, which facilitate the precise drilling of holes for cables, eliminating the need for manual measurement. The CLICK system used in them allows for quick, screwless and aesthetically pleasing fixing of the access panel. The entire design of the side panels has been engineered to allow their use in variants with ZIP runners, cable guides, as well as in a free-hanging version. The system side panels are cast from durable materials, such as aluminium, which ensures high strength, resistance to deformation and versatility - a single type of side panel can be used in many system configurations.

[0041] A key component is the pin integrated into the lower part of the system side panel, which acts as a support for the ZIP guide. It ensures the guide is securely and precisely positioned relative to the roller box, eliminating the need for additional brackets at the bottom of the structure. The pin can be fitted either directly or using dedicated fixings, which increases installation flexibility in non-standard conditions. The pin is also fitted with two mounting holes into which screws are inserted to lock the ZIP guide in position. This design is particularly important when installing the system on a building facade,where the guide does not rest directly on a lower structural element, such as a window sill or the ground, nor is it constrained from above.

[0042] The lower ends of the guides are fitted with attractive end caps that protect the interior of the profiles from dirt and moisture. The internal surfaces of the ZIP guides are protected by a closing profile, which further reinforces the structure and protects the ZIP fastener and the fabric from damage. The closing profiles are connected to the ZIP guides using a CLICK connection, i.e. without screws. The internal space of the ZIP ZIP guide has been designed to accommodate a power supply, cabling or other system components.

[0043] The roller box can be fitted with a tear-out panel covering the mounting pocket, into which a mounting bracket is inserted. The lower part of the access panel may also feature a tear-off panel, beneath which there is a separate mounting pocket designed for LED lighting. Spacer elements can be finished in colours matching the system, ensuring the aesthetic appeal of the entire installation.

[0044] The use of mounting brackets is optional. They enable quick and precise installation of the box on a wall or supporting structure, without the need to remove the fabric. The mounting pocket is created by removing the tear-out panel, which eliminates the need for additional brackets, simplifies installation and reduces installation time. The number of hangers is selected according to the system’s dimensions - the larger the system, the more support points there are, ensuring stability and resistance to deformation.

[0045] The solution with removable side panels allows for customisation of the box configuration - with or without lighting or a hanger - without the need to design and stock different profile versions. This streamlines logistics and production and minimises operating costs.

[0046] The system utilises a fabric-guiding technology based on a ZIP fastener heat-sealed to the sides of the fabric, which works in conjunction with a guide insert. This solution ensures even fabric tension across the entire height, eliminates the rippling effect and increases the roller blind’s resistance to wind. Selected system components - the inspection flap, the roller box, the ZIP guide and the end profiles - are fitted with the CLICK mechanism, enabling screw-free and tool-free installation and servicing.Integrated LED lighting - fitted within the inspection flap or other components -enhances functionality after dark and improves the overall aesthetics of the system. The bottom slat incorporates space for an intermediate profile, thereby eliminating the need for traditional, heat-sealed pockets. When the roller shutter is rolled up, the bottom slat is completely concealed within the roller box, ensuring an aesthetic, minimalist visual effect. In the system described by the invention, the bottom slats are manufactured in various dimensions, tailored to the size of the roller box used.

[0047] The entire structure is free of visible fixing elements, allowing the system to blend harmoniously into the facade, regardless of its style.

[0048] In practice, the ZIP adaptive screen roller blind system is used in modern residential buildings as well as in commercial, office and service premises. It can be used as an external sunshade for large glazed areas, e.g. on office building facades, shop windows, conservatories or pergolas. It is also used in the enclosure of loggias and balconies, providing users with thermal comfort, privacy protection and a reduction in noise and dust.

[0049] The LED lighting integrated into the system allows for the creation of a pleasant atmosphere after dark, enhancing the appeal of leisure and functional spaces. The system can also serve as an architectural feature to improve the aesthetics of a facade - thanks to its minimalist design, consistent colour scheme and the ability to conceal mounting and control mechanisms.

[0050] This invention is a solution that combines high functionality, versatility and aesthetics, offering a complete ZIP screen roller blind system tailored to the diverse needs of the architectural market. This system meets the growing expectations of end-users, designers and contractors for flexible, modular and easy-to-install sunshades that simultaneously meet high visual and functional standards.

[0051] The use of standardised components and the manufacturer’s solutions, such as integrated or flush-mounted systems, has enabled a significant reduction in the number of structural elements and a simplification of the production process, thereby increasing logistical and installation efficiency.The ZIP screen roller blind adaptation system stands out thanks to its well-thought-out design, which includes, amongst other things, detachable side panels, integrated mounting brackets, ZIP guides compatible with spacers, and innovative technical features such as mounting markers, snap-lock mechanisms and cable ducts. Thanks to its full compatibility with a wide range of installation conditions — both in new-build projects and during the refurbishment of existing buildings — the system can be successfully used in residential, commercial and public sector projects, including in locations requiring particular installation precision or integration with existing facade elements.

[0052] The system, as described, has fully achieved its intended design objectives. It offers users and contractors a solution with a modular and flexible design, enabling the quick, secure and aesthetically pleasing installation of ZIP screen roller blinds in almost any architectural setting. At the same time, it ensures durability, reliability and a consistent, modern appearance, regardless of the nature of the project or its location.

[0053] The system described in the invention is an example of a solution that not only meets current market needs but also sets the direction for development in the field of modern sunshades.

Claims

Claims1. The ZIP screen roller blind adaptation system, comprising a roller box with an inspection flap, ZIP guides and a screen roller blind fabric unwound from a roller tube, characterised in that at least one horizontal spacer element (2) is attached to the outer surfaces of each of the two vertical ZIP guides (1), made from an extruded aluminium profile, whereby the spacer elements (2) located on both ZIP guides (1) are arranged symmetrically relative to one another, and the width of each spacer element (2) is equal to the width of the ZIP guide (1), whereby the spacer element (2) is secured to the ZIP guide (1) and to the mounting surface (3) by means of a fastener (M), whilst the system sides (12) enclosing the roller box (10) comprise, on their inner side: upper and side positioning brackets (19) which support the side edges of the roller box (10), a support (20), which supports the upper surface of the inspection flap (13), a pin (17), which acts as the axis for the winding tube, as well as holes (26) designed for guide cables.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterised in that the fastening (M) comprises two mounting screws (4) securing the ZIP guide (1) to the spacer (2), and a fastener (6) securing the spacer (2) and the ZIP guide (1) to the mounting surface (3), wherein the fastener (6) passes through from the ZIP guide (1) to the mounting surface (3).

3. The system according to claim 1, characterised in that the fastening (M) comprises two mounting screws (4) securing the ZIP guide (1) to the spacer (2), two small fasteners (7) securing the spacer element (2) to the small mounting plate (8), and a large fastener (5) securing the spacer element (2) to the mounting surface (3) via the small mounting plate (8).

4. A system according to claim 1, characterised in that the fastening (M) comprises two mounting screws (4) securing the ZIP guide (1) to the spacer (2), two small fasteners (7) securing the spacer element (2) to the large mounting plate (9), and two large fasteners (5) securing the spacer element (2) , together with the large mounting plate (9), to the mounting surface (3) via the flange (9a) of the large mounting plate (9), wherein the flange (9a) projects beyond the outline of the spacer element (2).

5. The system according to claim 1, characterised in that the pin (21) protrudes beyond the lower edge of the system side (12) and acts as a support for the ZIP guide (1).

6. A system according to claim 1, characterised in that the bottom surfaces of the ZIP guides (1) are closed by end caps (11), whilst the inner side surfaces are closed by a closing profile (15).

7. The system according to claim 1, characterised in that the roller box (10) is fitted with a removable tear-off panel (22) covering the mounting pocket (23).

8. The system according to claim 7, characterised in that a mounting hanger (24) is secured in the mounting pocket (23).

9. The system according to claim 1, characterised in that the lower surface of the inspection flap (13) is fitted with a removable tear-off panel (14) covering the mounting pocket (18).

10. The system according to claim 9, characterised in that LED lighting (25) is mounted in the mounting pocket (18) of the inspection flap (13).

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